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There are two packages in ubuntu 20.04 unity and ubuntu-unity-desktop. Which one should I use to install Unity DE in my system and what is the difference between them?

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  • 3
    I use unity. It just works for me so I assume it works for CodeDexter
    – Plasma
    Apr 26, 2020 at 20:43
  • 4
    Unity is an upgrade, it makes 20.04 more usable. Apr 26, 2020 at 20:45
  • 1
    It’s just a matter of personal preference
    – Plasma
    Apr 26, 2020 at 20:45
  • 3
    @heynnema It is an upgrade to me, and thank you for suggestions, but no thank you. I've never told anyone to use Unity over Gnome, and that should do. Apr 26, 2020 at 21:02
  • 2
    @heynnema Unity is the best DE I have ever seen in my life. Gnome is also good. But not as good as Unity. Gnome is heavy and UI doesn't match with Ubuntu. Apr 26, 2020 at 23:51

1 Answer 1

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The unity is a single package.

The ubuntu-unity-desktop is a meta-package. The unity is one of the its dependencies.

The difference would be features. You will get more features and applications with second package. It will install for example Nautilus and LightDM greeter. See complete list in the links above.

So I would recommend to install the meta package with

sudo apt-get install ubuntu-unity-desktop
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  • Isn't nautilus already part of the default (Gnome) ubuntu-desktop? Or does the ubuntu-unity-desktop metapackage pulls a customized version?
    – MestreLion
    Jun 12, 2023 at 16:16
  • I believe a better phrasing would be along the lines of "unity package is the "core" DE ("single package" does not say much), and ubuntu-unity-desktop is a meta-package that installs not only unity but also several other components and tools that better integrate with Unity than the ones from Gnome Shell, such as LightDM and Unity Greeter, Unity Settings, Notify OSD, and so on. It also installs Nautilus and other common Gnome Shell tools for those installing Unity in flavors Kubuntu, Lubuntu, etc ..."
    – MestreLion
    Jun 12, 2023 at 16:42

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