Best Icon Packs for Customizing Your Linux Desktop

Customizing your Linux desktop with new icon themes is an easy way to freshen up the look and feel of your system. With so many great icon packs to choose from, finding the right one for your setup can be a fun creative endeavor. In this guide, we‘ll highlight 10 of the most popular icon themes for Linux and show you how to install them.

1. Papirus

Papirus is one of the most well-known Linux icon packs, with over 2000 vector icons styled after Material Design guidelines. The crisp, flat icon shapes combined with the vibrant colors give Papirus a modern, visually-appealing look.

To install Papirus:

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:papirus/papirus
sudo apt update
sudo apt install papirus-icon-theme

2. Numix Circle

If you like the round aesthetic, Numix Circle offers a cohesive set of icons all housed in circular containers. The use of circles gives Numix a more bubbly, playful personality compared to other themes.

To install Numix Circle:

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:numix/ppa
sudo apt update
sudo apt install numix-icon-theme-circle

3. La Capitaine

Inspired by macOS and Material Design, La Capitaine mixes aspects of skeuomorphism and flat design for a unique icon theme. The navy blue palette gives off a clean, professional vibe.

To install La Capitaine:

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:dyatlov-igor/la-capitaine
sudo apt update
sudo apt install la-capitaine-icon-theme

4. Flatery

Flatery is a flat, minimalist icon pack, true to its name. It‘s simple elegance makes it pair well with many desktop environments. The bright, vibrant colors help icons pop and stand out.

To install Flatery:

git clone https://github.com/nbasili/flatery
cd flatery
./install.sh

5. Tela

The Tela icon theme has crisp, detailed icons and bold use of colors, based on a modified version of Material Design. The circle-style docker badge in the lower left helps distinguish Tela from other packs.

To install Tela:

sudo snap install tela-icon-theme

Conclusion

Changing up your desktop icons is an easy way to freshen up the look of your Linux system. With this list of 5 popular packs, ranging from flat to skeuomorphic, circle to square, you‘re sure to find something that fits your style. Feel free to mix and match as well!