Using GNOME 3 Themes and Icons with Unity

gnomeiconsthemesunity

I like to play around with themes and icons to make my desktop looking more lovely. Can I use the themes and icons also for Unity 3D/2D, or what do I have to look for to know when and how I have to use them?

Best Answer

What themes you can use with Unity depends on the version of Ubuntu you are running.

  • Ubuntu 11.04 or earlier: Use GTK+ 2 themes.
  • Ubuntu 11.10 or later: Use GTK+ 3 themes.

If you are running Ubuntu 11.10 or later, you can use the same themes you would use with GNOME 3 (or, more accurately, GNOME Shell). This is because Unity itself is based on GNOME 3 in those versions. Unity in Ubuntu 11.04 and earlier is based on GNOME 2, so it uses a different set of themes.

Icon sets should be completely compatible with any Ubuntu release under any GNOME-based desktop environment (including Unity). Also, there should be no theme differences between Unity 3D and Unity 2D.

You can get themes and icon sets from sites like gnome-look.org or deviantART. After you download your desired theme sets, see How do I change to a theme not listed in the Appearance screen? or How do I get and install more themes, icons, and pointers? for information on how to apply them.

Related Question