---
title: "Regolith Linux: Boosting Developer Experience on Ubuntu"
description: "Discover Regolith Linux and transform your Ubuntu experience. Boost productivity with its developer-centric features—a new realm of efficiency!"
canonical: "https://adamtheautomator.com/regolith-linux/"
---

# Regolith Linux: Boosting Developer Experience on Ubuntu

> Discover Regolith Linux and transform your Ubuntu experience. Boost productivity with its developer-centric features—a new realm of efficiency!

Source: https://adamtheautomator.com/regolith-linux/

---

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# Regolith Linux: Boosting Developer Experience on Ubuntu

[![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3af64110e538c07a01fd9f0782f700ce6ed2d798bbf7b120e299d375eca5b0b3?s=192&d=mm&r=g)Arman Castillote](https://adamtheautomator.com/author/arman-castillote/)13 March 20249 min. read

Categories: [IT Ops](/category/it-ops/)

Tags:[Linux](/tag/linux/)

Table of Contents

*   [Prerequisites](#prerequisites)
*   [Installing Regolith Linux on Ubuntu](#installing-regolith-linux-on-ubuntu)
*   [Exploring the Keybinding Viewer and App Launcher](#exploring-the-keybinding-viewer-and-app-launcher)
*   [Switching Between Different Regolith Looks](#switching-between-different-regolith-looks)
*   [Managing Tiled Windows](#managing-tiled-windows)
*   [Creating and Switching Between Workspaces](#creating-and-switching-between-workspaces)
*   [Setting Up Dynamic Status Indicators](#setting-up-dynamic-status-indicators)
*   [Configuring Custom Keybindings](#configuring-custom-keybindings)
*   [Conclusion](#conclusion)

Like there are different strokes for different folks, the world of Linux offers myriad distributions to suit every user’s preferences. Some users prioritize stability, while others seek bleeding-edge features. But for those who crave an environment finely tuned to elevate their developer experience, Regolith Linux is designed with developers in mind.

Regolith Linux is not just another operating system—it is a finely crafted platform to optimize your workflow. In this tutorial, you will learn to set up Regolith for seamless integration into your developer environment.

Take your productivity and creativity to new heights with Regolith!

## Prerequisites

Ensure you have a Linux system running before setting up Regolith Linux. This tutorial uses an Ubuntu 22.04 LTS for demonstrations.

## Installing Regolith Linux on Ubuntu

Regolith is designed to supercharge your workflow with a sleek design and customizable features. But before expressing your excitement about boosting the developer experience, you must install Regolith on your system first.

To install Regolith, the progress involves registering a public key and adding a repository URL with the following steps:

1\. Open your terminal, and execute the following `wget` command to register the Regolith public key (`regolith.key`) to your local `apt`.

```bash
wget -qO - https://regolith-desktop.org/regolith.key | sudo apt-key add -
```

![Registering the Regolith public key to the local apt ](https://ata-proxy-cors-headers.adamtheautomator.workers.dev/?https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-77.png)

Registering the Regolith public key to the local `apt`

Related:[Install Python Wget and Automate your File Downloads](https://adamtheautomator.com/python-wget/)

2\. Next, run these commands below to add the repository URL to your local `apt`.

```bash
echo deb "[arch=amd64] https://regolith-desktop.org/release-3_1-ubuntu-focal-amd64 focal main" | \
sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/regolith.list
```

> _💡 Replace `amd64` with `arm64` in the two places in the above line to install on ARM-based systems._

![Adding the repository URL to the local apt ](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-78.png)

Adding the repository URL to the local `apt`

Related:[Echo Command in Bash Shell : Discover the Many Uses](https://adamtheautomator.com/echo-command-in-bash/)

3\. Afterward, run the [`apt update`](https://linuxize.com/post/how-to-use-apt-command/#updating-package-index-apt-update) command below to update the package lists on your system without asking for user confirmation (`-y`).

This update ensures you have the latest information about available packages and versions from the configured repositories.

```bash
sudo apt update -y
```

![Updating the package lists ](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-79.png)

Updating the package lists

Related:[Ubuntu Apt Get Mastery: A Guide with Practical Examples](https://adamtheautomator.com/ubuntu-apt-get/)

4\. Once updated, execute the following command to [`install`](https://linuxize.com/post/how-to-use-apt-command/#installing-packages-apt-install) the Regolith Linux desktop environment and session management components. Additionally, install a specific visual theme named `lascaille` onto your system.

```bash
sudo apt install regolith-desktop regolith-session-flashback regolith-look-lascaille
```

![Installing Regolith on the system](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-80.png)

Installing Regolith on the system

5\. Now, reboot your system for the changes to take effect. The login manager must be restarted to recognize the new desktop session.

6\. After rebooting, click the settings icon (bottom-right) on the login screen, and choose **Regolith on X11** before logging into your account.

This option lets you select the Regolith desktop environment for your session.

![Choosing the Regolith desktop environment ](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-81.png)

Choosing the Regolith desktop environment

Once logged in, the Keybinding Viewer window appears, as shown below.

The Keybinding Viewer lets you see the predefined keyboard shortcuts and their corresponding actions within the Regolith desktop environment.

![Overviewing the Keybinding Viewer window upon login](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-82.png)

Overviewing the Keybinding Viewer window upon login

## Exploring the Keybinding Viewer and App Launcher

When you log in, you typically get a handy Keybinding Viewer on the screen. But what if you accidentally close it? Poof! The viewer is gone, and suddenly, you are left without those helpful visual cues for launching apps and other common tasks.

Not to worry! If you can commit two keybindings in mind, you will have a better experience with Regolith.

> 💡 _Note: Throughout this tutorial, remember that Super refers to either the Windows key (for Microsoft) or the Command key (for macOS), regardless of the OS you are using._

To start your way in navigating Regolith, carry out the following:

Press (Super + Shift + ?) to launch the Keybinding Viewer, and try one from the list.

> 💡 _In navigating your Regolith desktop, you must start most keybindings with the Super key, as illustrated below._

![Accessing the Keybinding Viewer](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-83.png)

Accessing the Keybinding Viewer

Now, press (Alt + A) while the Keybinding Viewer is present, and select applications to launch, such as the **Terminal**, **Files,** and **To Do**.

> 💡 _Note: The terminal has a dedicated keybinder for quick launching (Super + Enter)._

![Switching to the Applications tab while in the Keybinding Viewer](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-84.png)

Switching to the Applications tab while in the Keybinding Viewer

> 💡 _Tip: Like searching for apps, you can look for files in your system by pressing (Super + Alt + Space)._

Or press (Super + Space) to view the App Launcher anytime.

![Accessing the App Launcher](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-85.png)

Accessing the App Launcher

> 💡 _Note: You can also launch an application by running the following command, replacing `<app_name>` with the application name (i.e., `gnome-terminal`)._
> 
> `_<app_name> –class=floating_window_`

By default, opened applications are tiled on the screen like in the following screenshot.

Tiled windows enable efficient multitasking by allowing you to view and manage multiple applications simultaneously without overlapping windows. And yes, you can also open multiple Terminal sessions side-by-side (literally).

This layout promotes a clutter-free workspace and helps enhance productivity by keeping relevant windows organized and easily accessible.

![Viewing tiled windows](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-86.png)

Viewing tiled windows

> 💡 _Opened too many apps? Hit (Super + Shift + Q) to close the focused one. And if an app’s acting up, try (Super + Alt + Q) to force quit it. But remember, force quitting could mean losing any unsaved stuff._

## Switching Between Different Regolith Looks

You have seen the default Regolith look installed on your system (lascaille), which is cool. But your desktop is more than just a workspace—it reflects your style and productivity preferences. So, why not switch to a different look?

Whether you prefer a minimalist design for maximum focus or a vibrant aesthetic, Regolith Linux lets you tailor your desktop appearance to suit your unique tastes and workflow.

To switch between different Regolith looks, proceed with the following:

1\. Execute the following command to list all available Regolith looks.

```bash
apt search ^regolith-look-
```

Pick one from the list and note its name (i.e., **regolith-look-gruvbox**).

![list-look](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-87.png)

> 💡 _If you wish to go ballistic, run the following command to install all Regolith looks. `sudo apt install regolith-look-* -y`_

2\. After picking, run the command below to `install` the `gruvbox` look.

```bash
sudo apt install regolith-look-gruvbox -y
```

![Installing a Regolith look (gruvbox)](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-88.png)

Installing a Regolith look (gruvbox)

3\. With a new look installed, press (Super + Alt + L) to view all installed Regolith looks and switch to a different one (i.e., **gruvbox**).

This tutorial sticks to the **lascaille** look for simplicity’s sake.

![Choosing a different Regolith looks](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-89.png)

Choosing a different Regolith looks

## Managing Tiled Windows

Since opened application windows are randomly tiled on the screen, you may not like the default layout or arrangement they end up in. Luckily, Regolith Linux offers extensive customization options to tailor your workspace to your liking.

With Regolith, you can easily adjust the layout, resize windows, and create custom keybindings to streamline your workflow and maximize productivity.

To manage tiled windows on your desktop, proceed with these steps:

1\. Press (Super + Shift + Arrow Keys) to move around the focused window, adjusting the layout of tiled windows on your screen, as shown below.

This example demonstrates the Terminal changing its position within the tiled layout.

![Changing the tiled windows layout](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/adjust-tiled-windows-1.gif)

Changing the tiled windows layout

2\. Next, execute the following commands on your Terminal to configure the default gap of tiled windows to `20` pixels (arbitrary).

The `~/.config/regolith3/Xresources` ([staged](https://regolith-desktop.com/docs/howtos/stage-configs/)) configuration file is where you customize the appearance and behavior of your Regolith Linux desktop environment. This file loads user-specific configurations that override some from the system-wide settings (_/etc/regolith/i3/config_).

```bash
echo "wm.gaps.inner.size: 20" >> ~/.config/regolith3/Xresources
regolith-look refresh
```

When you tweak the window gap, you gain more control over how your windows are organized. As a result, everything becomes clearer, easier to read, and more pleasant to look at.

Also, this feature lets you see a bit of your desktop wallpaper to feel more connected to your digital workspace. A subtle touch that makes your desktop feel less sterile and more inviting.

> 💡 _When changing your desktop wallpaper, execute the following command. Be sure to substitute `<img_path>` with the image file’s path._
> 
> _`echo "regolith.wallpaper.file: <img_path>" >> ~/.config/regolith3/Xresources regolith-look refresh` </aside>_

![Adjusting the default tiled window gap](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/window-gap.gif)

Adjusting the default tiled window gap

> 💡 _Tip: If you wish to change the window gap quickly, press (Super + +/- key). But remember, unlike modifying the configuration file, this approach only changes the window gap temporarily._

3\. Moving on, open the _~/.config/regolith3/Xresources_ file in your preferred editor (i.e., `nano` or [`vim`](https://adamtheautomator.com/vim-for-linux/) instead of running `echo` commands, then add the following lines.

This configuration lets you change the default border size of tiled windows and the border color of the focused window.

> 💡 _While other configuration files use the pound character (`#`) for comments, the ~/.config/regolith3/Xresources file accepts exclamation points (`!`) instead._

```
! Change the window border size to 3 pixels
m.window.border.size: 3
! Change the border color of the focused window to light green
wm.client.focused.color.child_border: #A8EDB8
```

4\. Now, execute the command below (or press Super + Shift + R) for the configuration changes to reflect on your desktop.

```bash
regolith-look refresh
```

Notice below that any window’s border color changes when focused.

> 💡 _Tip: Press (Super + Arrow Keys) to switch between tiled windows_

![Changing window border size and focus color](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/border-color.gif)

Changing window border size and focus color

5\. Lastly, press (Super + R) to enter the window resize mode, press any arrow keys to resize the focused window, then press (Esc) to exit the resize mode.

This neat feature comes in handy when you have one window hogging all the space or when you struggle to see what is going on in certain windows.

![Resizing tiled windows](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/window-resize.gif)

Resizing tiled windows

## Creating and Switching Between Workspaces

Instead of having a cluttered mishmash of windows all in the same space, workspaces let you sift your tasks and focus on one project at a time. With workspaces, you can group related applications for increased productivity and reduced distractions.

To create and switch between workspaces, you will work on a few configurations as follows:

1\. Press (Super + 2) to create a new workspace, then open some applications. In Regolith, you can create and switch to existing workspaces by pressing (Super + 0-9).

![Creating a new workspace](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-93.png)

Creating a new workspace

2\. Next, execute the following commands in the Terminal to modify the labels of your existing workspaces, and press (Super + Shift + R) to refresh your desktop session.

```bash
echo "wm.workspace.01.name: 1:Test" >> ~/.config/regolith3/Xresources
echo "wm.workspace.02.name: 2:Prod" >> ~/.config/regolith3/Xresources
```

You have successfully made the changes, but as you notice, they have not been reflected yet (bottom-left).

![Changing workspaces labels](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-92.png)

Changing workspaces labels

3\. Reboot your system so the changes take effect. Notice the workspace label changed to **Test**, as shown below.

![Confirming the workstation label change in effect](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-91.png)

Confirming the workstation label change in effect

4\. Now, press (Super + 2) to create a new workspace. Based on your configurations, the workspace label shows as **Prod**.

![Creating a new workspace](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-90.png)

Creating a new workspace

5\. Ultimately, press (Super + 0-9) to switch between existing workspaces.

Now, you can smoothly shift between various projects, tasks, or contexts, making your work more efficient and productive.

![Switching between active workspaces](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/switch-ws.gif)

Switching between active workspaces

## Setting Up Dynamic Status Indicators

Imagine not knowing the vital signs of your computer—its resource usage, connectivity status, or battery levels—until too late. In such cases, dynamic status indicators come into play, offering real-time insights into your system’s performance and condition.

To set up dynamic status indicators, execute the following actions:

1\. Execute the following command to list all i3xrocks scripts or programs (status indicators) designed to work with the i3 window manager. These scripts typically provide additional functionality or information displayed on the i3 status bar.

```bash
apt search i3xrocks-
```

Pick one status indicator you wish to install from the list (i.e., **i3xrocks-memory**).

![Picking a status indicator](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-97.png)

Picking a status indicator

2\. Next, run these commands below to `install` your target status indicator (`i3xrocks-memory`) and refresh your desktop (Super + Shift + R) to apply the changes.

```bash
sudo apt install i3xrocks-memory
```

![Installing the i3xrocks-memory status indicator ](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-96.png)

Installing the i3xrocks-memory status indicator

> 💡 _Tip: You can install multiple status indicators simultaneously by specifying the status indicators (separated by spaces), like in the following example:_
> 
> _`sudo apt install <indicator1> <indicator2> <indicator3> …`_

Once refreshed, you will see the memory status indicator in the status bar (bottom-right), as shown below, showing the total memory being used.

![Verifying the memory status indicator](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-95.png)

Verifying the memory status indicator

3\. Double-click the memory status indicator, which opens the System Monitor window. This way, you delve deeper into memory usage statistics, monitor resource-intensive processes, and manage system memory more effectively.

![Viewing resources via the System Monitor ](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-94.png)

Viewing resources via the System Monitor

> 💡 _By default, the System monitor launches in a floating window. If you wish to tile the window, press (Super + Shift + F) to toggle the window floating._

## Configuring Custom Keybindings

Regolith already offers a handful of keybindings for navigating your workspace, but why stop there? With some customization, you can tailor your keybindings to suit your workflow perfectly.

Whether you’re hopping between workspaces, organizing windows, or firing up your favorite apps, Regolith’s keybindings have you covered.

To configure custom keybindings, complete the steps below:

1\. Open the session keybindings configuration file (_/usr/share/regolith/i3/config.d/55\_session\_keybindings)_ in your preferred editor (requires sudo).

This configuration file defines keybindings related to the session management aspect of the i3 window manager used in Regolith.

2\. Next, add this line at the bottom of the file with the following syntax, save the changes, and close the editor.

```
bindsym <key_combination> <command> <app_or_script>
```

This example sets the keybinding (Super + P) to launch (`exec`) [Shutter](https://shutter-project.org/), a feature-rich screenshot program for Linux-based OSes like Ubuntu.

> 💡 _In setting keybindings, `$mod` (or `Mod4`) is the equivalent to the Super key, while `Mod1` is the Alt key. The other keys, like `Control` and `Shift`, remain as is._

```
bindsym $mode+p exec shutter
```

![Setting keybinding for launching applications](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image-98.png)

Setting keybinding for launching applications

3\. Now, press (Super + Shift + C) to reload the configuration.

4\. Lastly, press the keybindings you set (i.e., Super + p) to launch your chosen application.

![Testing custom keybindings](https://adamtheautomator.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/shutter.gif)

Testing custom keybindings

## Conclusion

And there you have it—your journey through Regolith Linux has been exhilarating! You have dived into the intricacies of keybinding viewers, app launchers, tiled windows, workspaces, and dynamic status indicators. Each step has brought you closer to mastering this developer’s paradise.

As you continue exploring, consider delving deeper into advanced customization options in the [official documentation](https://regolith-desktop.com/). Experiment with new keybindings, tweak your workspace layouts, and explore the vibrant [Regolith community](https://github.com/orgs/regolith-linux/discussions) for inspiration and collaboration.

Keep tinkering, learning, and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Your journey is far from over!

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