As usual, Fedora 39 came with the latest updates to the GNOME desktop environment. But this release also introduced a new immutable alternative to Silverblue based on the Budgie desktop environment. Its name is Fedora Onyx.
First, What Is Budgie?
Budgie is a desktop environment for free and open source operating systems that has been around since 2014. Development originally centered around the Solus distribution, but later versions are distro agnostic from the beginning.
Budgie is a compelling option for people who like more barebones desktops like Xfce, MATE, and Cinnamon but want just a tad more flair.
What Does It Mean to Be Immutable?
An immutable desktop is one where you cannot make changes to system files. The core system is read-only, and it all gets replaced with a newer version whenever updates roll around. This way your computer isn’t rendered unbootable due to a single broken program.
If problems do arise, you can rollback to previous versions of the operating system. You can also safely test out newer, beta versions of a distro or desktop environment.
While you rarely see the word “immutable” in ads, many consumer-oriented operating systems are already immutable. This includes Android, ChromeOS, iOS, and macOS. Theversion of Linux that ships on Valve’s Steam Deckis also immutable.
What’s Different About Fedora Onyx?
Anyone comfortable with the Fedora Budgie spin will find a lot that feels familiar. At a glance, the two projects are identical. In actuality, if you know Budgie at all, Fedora Onyx doesn’t change the formula. The interface here is largely the same as what you would encounter if you were to download Solus instead.
What separates Fedora Onyx is the same aswhat separates Fedora Silverblue from Fedora Workstation.
You candownload Fedora Onyxfrom the Fedora Project’s website.
Should You Use Fedora Onyx?
Budgie may be newer than MATE and Xfce, but it still has more in common with those somewhat dated desktop environments than what you see shipping on modern PCs. If you like that traditional experience, Fedora Onyx is a way to keep a comfortable interface while embracing newer technologies underneath.
