How to enable a Yaru Dark theme in Ubuntu 19.04

Understanding the Yaru Theme in Ubuntu

Ubuntu, one of the most popular Linux distributions, consistently prioritizes user experience, making it appealing for both new and experienced users. Since version 18.10, Ubuntu has introduced the Yaru theme, which includes a distinctive light and dark look. This theme enhances the aesthetic appeal while making the interface more user-friendly. In this article, we will delve deeper into how to enable the Yaru Dark theme specifically in Ubuntu 19.04.

What is the Yaru Theme?

Yaru is a modern GTK and icon theme for Ubuntu that was designed to provide a visually pleasing and cohesive design across applications. It embraces the spirit of Ubuntu with rich colors and polished icons, striving to create a consistent user interface. The dark variant of Yaru, known for its reduced eye strain and elegant appearance, can be especially appealing for users who prefer a darker aesthetic or work in low-light environments.

Why Choose the Yaru Dark theme?

Switching to the Yaru Dark theme can have several advantages:

• Reduced Eye Strain: Dark themes are often easier on the eyes, especially in dimly lit environments. The lower contrast means that your eyes won’t have to work as hard to adjust between light and dark.

• Modern Look: The Yaru Dark theme gives your desktop a contemporary feel. The polished design can enhance the look of your applications, making them appear more unified and attractive.

• Less power consumption: For devices with OLED screens, dark themes can lead to longer battery life because black pixels do not consume power.

How to Enable the Yaru Dark Theme in Ubuntu 19.04

Now that we understand the advantages of using the Yaru Dark theme, let’s walk through the steps necessary to enable it on your Ubuntu 19.04 system.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure that you are running Ubuntu 19.04. You can easily verify your version by opening the terminal and typing:

bash
lsb_release -a

This command will give you output detailing your current Ubuntu version.

Step 1: Open Settings

1. First, click on the ‘System Menu’ located in the top-right corner of your screen.

2. From the dropdown, select ‘Settings’. This will open the main System Settings window where you can customize various aspects of your user interface.

Step 2: Navigate to Appearance

In the Settings window:

1. Look for the ‘Appearance’ option on the left sidebar and click on it.

2. You will then see options to adjust your theme, icons, and other display settings.

Step 3: Select Yaru Dark Theme

1. In the Appearance settings, find the ‘Theme’ dropdown menu. Click on it to reveal the available themes.

2. Select ‘Yaru Dark’ from the list. The change should take effect immediately, transforming the look of your desktop and applications to the darker aesthetic.

Customizing the Yaru Dark Theme

While enabling the Yaru Dark theme gives you a dramatic new look, you may want to customize your experience further. Below are additional tweaks you can consider:

Install Custom Icons

Custom icons can elevate your theme experience. You can search for various icon packs on platforms like GNOME-Look. Some popular icon packs compatible with the Yaru Dark theme include:

• Papirus: A popular icon theme maintaining an elegant and colorful look.
• Numix: It provides a simpler icon design fit for minimalists.

To install custom icons:

1. Download your chosen icon pack.
2. Extract its contents and place it in the ~/.icons directory (you might need to create this directory if it does not exist).

Change the Shell Theme

For those looking to further modify the appearance, changing the GNOME Shell Theme can complement the Yaru Dark theme. Use the GNOME Tweaks tool:

1. Install GNOME Tweaks if it is not already available:

   bash
   sudo apt install gnome-tweaks

2. Open GNOME Tweaks and navigate to the ‘Appearance’ section to choose a different shell theme that works harmoniously with Yaru Dark.

Additional Tips for a Custom Setup

• Fonts: Consider changing your system fonts for added readability and personalization.

• Extensions: Utilize GNOME extensions to add functionality to your desktop environment, which can enhance usability as well as aesthetics.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

While enabling the Yaru Dark theme is generally straightforward, some users may encounter issues. Here are a few common problems along with their solutions:

The Theme Doesn’t Change

If you notice that your theme isn’t changing, ensure that you have fully updated your system:

bash
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade

Incompatibility with Certain Applications

Some applications may not respect the system theme settings. If you experience this, check if the application has its own theme settings or look for alternative versions that are better integrated with GTK.

Conclusion

Enabling the Yaru Dark theme in Ubuntu 19.04 is a simple yet impactful way to enhance your user interface. The theme not only satiates aesthetic desires but also promotes comfort and ease of use. By following the steps mentioned in this article, you should be able to transform your desktop into a dark, visually cohesive environment. With additional customization options available, you can create a personalized workspace that reflects your style and enhances your productivity.

FAQ

1. Can I enable the Yaru Dark theme on earlier versions of Ubuntu?
Yes, the Yaru theme was introduced in Ubuntu 18.10. However, earlier versions may require manual theme installations or GTK modifications to achieve a similar appearance.

2. How do I switch back to the default Yaru Light theme?
You can return to the Yaru Light theme conveniently by going back to the ‘Appearance’ settings and selecting ‘Yaru’ from the theme dropdown.

3. Will third-party applications adapt to the Yaru Dark theme?
Most GTK applications should respect the system theme settings. However, QT applications may require separate theme configurations to ensure consistency.

4. Are there any performance impacts when using dark themes?
Using a dark theme does not generally impact performance. However, on OLED screens, it can save battery life as black pixels use less power.

5. Can I customize the Yaru Dark theme further?
Absolutely! You can combine Yaru Dark with custom icon packs, shells, and fonts, all of which can be installed and adjusted through GNOME Tweaks or manually in the .icons and .themes directories.

By following the steps outlined in this guide and exploring customization options, you are well on your way to creating an engaging and comfortable Ubuntu experience. Enjoy exploring the sleek new look and feel of Yaru Dark!