GNOME is one of the most popular Linux desktop environments. It is clean, modern, and stable, but many users feel it lacks flexibility out of the box.
This is where GNOME Tweaks, GNOME Extensions, and a few well-chosen extensions make a big difference.
In this article, I’ll cover:
- Essential GNOME tools
- Useful GNOME extensions
- What each one does
- How to install and use them
GNOME Tweaks
What is GNOME Tweaks?
GNOME Tweaks is a configuration tool that unlocks advanced desktop settings not available in the default GNOME Settings app.
Key Features
- Change wallpaper behaviour (scaled, zoom, centred, spanned)
- Enable or disable minimise and maximise buttons
- Adjust fonts and font scaling
- Manage themes (GTK, icons, cursor)
- Control startup applications
- Fine-tune keyboard and mouse behaviour
This tool is almost essential for anyone who wants more control over GNOME without editing config files.
How to Install GNOME Tweaks
On Ubuntu / Debian-based systems:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install gnome-tweaks
On Fedora:
sudo dnf install gnome-tweaks
After installation, open it from the application menu as Tweaks.
GNOME Extensions (Tool)
What is GNOME Extensions?
GNOME Extensions is a manager application used to enable, disable, and configure GNOME extensions.
It works together with the GNOME Shell to modify how the desktop behaves.
Why It’s Important
- Install extensions easily
- Enable or disable extensions safely
- Access extension settings in one place
- Avoid command-line work for daily use
How to Install GNOME Extensions
On Ubuntu / Debian-based systems:
sudo apt install gnome-shell-extension-manager
Or, on newer Ubuntu versions:
sudo apt install gnome-extensions-app
On Fedora:
sudo dnf install gnome-extensions-app
Once installed, search for Extensions in the app menu.
Recommended GNOME Extensions
Arc Menu
What is Arc Menu?
Arc Menu replaces the default GNOME app launcher with a Windows XP / Windows 7–style start menu.
Key Features
- Traditional application menu layout
- Categories and search support
- Multiple menu styles (Windows, Mint, Unity, etc.)
- Fully customisable icons and layout
- Easy access to system actions (shutdown, restart, logout)
This extension is ideal for users switching from Windows to Linux.
How to Install Arc Menu
- Open GNOME Extensions app
- Click Browse
- Search for Arc Menu
- Click Install
- Enable it from the Extensions list
You can customise it by clicking the settings icon next to the extension.
Dash to Panel
What is Dash to Panel?
Dash to Panel merges the top bar and dock into a single Windows-like taskbar, similar to Windows XP, 7, or 8.
Key Features
- Single taskbar with running applications
- Window previews on hover
- Tray icons and clock in one place
- Supports multi-monitor setups
- Highly configurable positioning and size
This extension makes GNOME feel familiar and productive for traditional desktop users.
How to Install Dash to Panel
- Open GNOME Extensions
- Browse or search for Dash to Panel
- Click Install
- Enable it
After enabling, right-click the panel to access detailed settings.
Clipboard Indicator
What is Clipboard Indicator?
Clipboard Indicator adds a clipboard history menu to the top bar, similar to Klipper in KDE.
Key Features
- Stores clipboard history
- Quickly paste older copied text
- Search through clipboard entries
- Clear history when needed
- Lightweight and reliable
This is extremely useful for developers, writers, and anyone who copies text often.
How to Install Clipboard Indicator
- Open GNOME Extensions
- Search for Clipboard Indicator
- Click Install
- Enable the extension
Once enabled, you’ll see a clipboard icon in the top panel.
Final Thoughts
GNOME becomes far more powerful and user-friendly with the right tools and extensions.
Recommended setup for most users:
- GNOME Tweaks – for fine-grained desktop control
- GNOME Extensions – for managing extensions
- Arc Menu – for a classic start menu
- Dash to Panel – for a familiar taskbar
- Clipboard Indicator – for productivity
Together, these tools transform GNOME into a flexible, efficient, and comfortable desktop without sacrificing stability.
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