Hey there, folks! I’m about to do my first Linux install and I’m trying to figure out which DE I wanna use. I’m not concerned about how analogous the DE is to any other OS because I’m willing to learn and develop a new workflow. From a performance and overall compatibility perspective, does either GNOME or KDE outshine over the other for this? This is specifically considering the latest non-beta/stable versions of each. Does the Anaconda installer work in the KDE spin of Fedora, or is the install process different altogether? I know Fedora’s default is GNOME, does this make for any less stability with KDE?
Edit: I appreciate all of your comments, thank you for taking the time to write them! Initially I was really interested in GNOME for its minimalist design, but it seems KDE can be altered for a similar form without needing to rely much on third party pieces because of how much is already built into it. Although I’m certain the GNOME DE is a really nice one, I think I’m gonna give it a go with KDE simply because it has three customizability already out-of-the-box and it seems to be slightly lighter weight. Of course, there’s no reason to ever settle and it’s likely I’ll try GNOME at some point instead. Thank you! :)
Both are pretty great on Fedora, although Fedora gives Gnome just a tiny bit more attention, and even specifically align Fedora’s release schedule with Gnome’s.
Gnome will likely be a bit more stable, consistent in UX, and have a workflow that’s very different but pretty amazing when it “clicks”. Gnome has a pretty great Adwaita app ecosystem that matches the system theme very well. Features can take a little while to come to Gnome, because the devs are pretty anal about getting things implemented perfectly before they’re added.
Plasma is more powerful and customisable, most parts of the system, and apps in the KDE app ecosystem, have a load of options you could spend hours going through and customising to your heart’s content. Plasma out of the box pretty much operates like you’d expect a Windows PC to work (sans the enshittification of course lol) . Plasma adds features rapidly, and just works out the kinks while in production, so-to-speak.
Both of them are great, albeit very different, which keeps the Linux desktop interesting and varied IMO. I’d try both for a day or two and then make your choice, because it’s highly subjective.