7 steps to make Linux look like macOS

Let’s face it: macOS looks good. But not everyone wants to (or can) drop hundreds or thousands on Apple hardware. The good news? With a little work, you can make your Linux desktop look and feel a lot like macOS. Here’s how to do it in seven straightforward steps.

1. Choose the Right Linux Distribution

Some Linux distros are easier to customize than others. Ubuntu, Fedora, or Linux Mint are solid picks because they have strong community support and lots of customization options. For this guide, I’ll assume you’re using Ubuntu with GNOME, but these tips work with most desktops.

2. Install GNOME Tweaks

GNOME Tweaks gives you deep control over your desktop’s look and feel. Install it with:

sudo apt install gnome-tweaks

Once installed, launch it—you’ll use this tool for many tweaks.

3. Add a macOS Theme

This is where the transformation begins. “WhiteSur” and “MacOS Big Sur” are popular, well-maintained GTK themes that closely mimic Apple’s style.

• Download the theme from Gnome-look.org.
• Unzip it to ~/.themes.
• Open GNOME Tweaks > Appearance > Applications, and select your new theme.

4. Change the Icons

A macOS vibe isn’t complete without the right icons. “McMojave,” “La Capitaine,” and “WhiteSur” icon sets all look sharp.

• Download your chosen set from Gnome-look.org.
• Extract to ~/.icons.
• Open GNOME Tweaks > Appearance > Icons, and choose your new icons.

5. Tweak the Dock

macOS has that iconic bottom dock. For Linux, “Dash to Dock” or “Plank” get you close.

• For GNOME, install Dash to Dock:
  sudo apt install gnome-shell-extension-dash-to-dock
  Then enable and configure it from GNOME Tweaks or Extensions.
• For other desktops, “Plank” is lightweight and easy:
  sudo apt install plank
  Set it to launch at startup, then right-click to tweak its settings.

6. Add a Global Menu (Optional, but Cool)

Want the macOS-style top menu bar? Try “Gnome Global AppMenu” extension for GNOME or “Vala Panel AppMenu” for other desktops. Note: not every app supports this perfectly, but it adds to the illusion.

7. Swap Out the Wallpaper

This is the easiest step. Grab official macOS wallpapers from here or here, and set as your desktop background.

Bonus: Fonts and Finishing Touches

• Fonts: Install and use “San Francisco” or “SF Pro Display” (Apple’s official font) if licensing allows, or go for “Roboto” or “Cantarell” for a similar feel.
• Sounds: Want the full effect? Download macOS system sounds and swap them in.

Final Thoughts

With a few downloads and some tweaking, you can bring that sleek macOS look to your Linux machine—no Apple logo required. The beauty of Linux is how flexible it is, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

Have tips or favorite themes? Drop them in the comments below!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!