Ubuntu MATE Complete Guide: Features, Installation, and Beginner Tips

1. Introduction

What Is Ubuntu MATE?

Ubuntu MATE is a distribution in the Ubuntu family that uses the MATE desktop environment. MATE preserves the traditional desktop layout of the once-popular GNOME 2 while incorporating modern functionality. Its intuitive, Windows-like interface makes it easy for beginners to use.

How Is It Different From Ubuntu?

The main difference between Ubuntu and Ubuntu MATE lies in the desktop environment they use. The differences are as follows:

As shown above, Ubuntu MATE is lightweight, highly customizable, and runs comfortably even on older PCs.

Who Is Ubuntu MATE For?

Ubuntu MATE is recommended for the following types of users:

1. Those who want to revive an old PC

• Because Ubuntu MATE is relatively lightweight, it can run on older machines.
• Installing it on PCs that previously ran Windows XP or Windows 7 can give them new life.

1. Users who prefer a Windows-like experience

• Its traditional desktop environment makes transitioning from Windows smooth.

1. Users who enjoy customization

• You can customize panels, window managers, themes, and more to create your ideal desktop experience.

1. Beginners looking for an entry-level Linux distribution

• Based on Ubuntu with a simple UI and stable operation, Ubuntu MATE is ideal for Linux newcomers.

Summary

Ubuntu MATE maintains a traditional desktop layout while offering a lightweight and highly customizable Linux experience. It is an excellent choice for users who want to reuse old hardware or prefer a Windows-like interface.

2. Features of Ubuntu MATE

Lightweight and Fast Performance

One of the biggest advantages of Ubuntu MATE is its lightweight system footprint. The MATE desktop environment requires fewer resources compared to modern interfaces like GNOME or KDE. This provides the following benefits:

• Runs smoothly even on older PCs
  Ubuntu MATE performs well on relatively low-spec hardware. For example, PCs equipped with older Intel Core 2 Duo processors and 4GB of RAM can still run it without issues.
• Low system overhead
  Desktop animations and effects are minimized, resulting in faster startup times and smoother operation.
• Optimized for low-spec environments
  Its configuration prioritizes efficient resource usage with lightweight applications and minimal RAM consumption.

User-Friendly Desktop Environment

The MATE desktop environment adopts a traditional layout similar to Windows, enabling intuitive operation.

• Taskbar and Application Menu
  A panel located at the top or bottom of the screen allows users to launch applications easily. Its interface resembles the Windows Start Menu, which feels familiar to beginners.
• Multi-panel system
  Panels can be customized by adding application launchers, system monitors, and more.
• Smooth window management
  You can freely place multiple windows and perform traditional window operations effortlessly.

High Customization Capability

Ubuntu MATE allows extensive customization of the desktop environment to create a personalized user interface.

• Panel layout customization
  Using the MATE Tweak tool, you can change the layout to resemble GNOME 2, Windows, or macOS.
• Themes and icon sets
  Users can freely change system themes and icon packs, which is a major advantage for those who enjoy customization.
• Shortcut key configuration
  You can configure keyboard shortcuts to improve workflow efficiency.

Stability and Long-Term Support (LTS)

Ubuntu MATE is based on Ubuntu’s LTS (Long Term Support) releases, providing five years of official support.

• Stable system operation
  LTS versions prioritize stability and security over adding experimental features, enabling reliable long-term usage.
• Regular security updates
  Canonical provides ongoing security patches, ensuring a safe computing environment.

Multilingual Support (Including Japanese)

Ubuntu MATE offers robust multilingual support, allowing you to easily configure a Japanese environment when needed.

• Japanese input enabled by default
  Selecting “Japanese” during installation automatically configures the input system (IBus and Mozc).
• Full Japanese localization
  Menus and system settings can be displayed entirely in Japanese, making it accessible even for beginners.

Summary

Ubuntu MATE is a lightweight yet highly customizable Linux distribution that offers stable performance. It is particularly recommended for users who want to make the most of older hardware or those searching for a simple and user-friendly Linux environment.

3. How to Install Ubuntu MATE

System Requirements

Before installing Ubuntu MATE, check the system requirements.

Although Ubuntu MATE is relatively lightweight, 4GB of RAM and an Intel Core i3 or higher CPU are recommended for smooth performance.

Downloading Ubuntu MATE

Download the Ubuntu MATE ISO image from the official website.

1. Access the official website
2. Click Download
3. Select the latest LTS version (e.g., Ubuntu MATE 24.04 LTS)
4. Verify the 64-bit architecture and download the ISO

Creating Installation Media

Write the downloaded ISO file to a USB flash drive to create bootable installation media.

Creating Installation Media on Windows

1. Download Rufus from the official site
2. Insert a USB flash drive (8GB or larger)
3. Launch Rufus and configure the following settings

• Boot Selection → Choose the downloaded ISO file
• Partition Scheme → GPT (or MBR)
• File System → FAT32

1. Click Start to create the installation media

Creating Installation Media on macOS/Linux

Run the following command in the terminal:

sudo dd if=ubuntu-mate-24.04-desktop-amd64.iso of=/dev/sdX bs=4M status=progress

※ Replace sdX with the device name of your USB flash drive.

Installation Procedure

1. Boot from the USB installation media

• Enable “USB Boot” in your BIOS/UEFI settings and start the PC using the USB flash drive.

1. Ubuntu MATE installation screen

• After booting, you will see the options “Try Ubuntu MATE” and “Install Ubuntu MATE.” Select Install to begin.

1. Select your language

• Choose your preferred language and click Continue.

1. Select keyboard layout

• Select the appropriate keyboard layout (e.g., English (US), Japanese, etc.), then click Continue.

1. Select installation type

• Choose either Normal installation or Minimal installation.
• Checking “Download updates while installing” ensures the system is updated during installation.

1. Disk configuration

• Select “Erase disk and install Ubuntu MATE” to replace an existing OS.
• If you want a dual-boot setup, select Something else and manually configure partitions.

1. User account setup

• Enter your name and password, then choose whether to enable automatic login or require a password at login.

1. Start installation

• Click Install and wait for the process to complete. It usually takes about 10–30 minutes.

1. Finish installation

• Click Restart Now, remove the USB flash drive, and reboot the PC.

Initial Configuration and Setting Up the Japanese Environment

After installing Ubuntu MATE, complete the initial setup to optimize your environment.

System Updates

Apply the latest updates immediately after installation:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Configure Japanese Input

If you plan to use Japanese input, confirm the input method settings:

1. Open System → Language Support
2. Click Install Languages
3. Confirm that Mozc (Japanese Input) is installed
4. Select IBus as the input method

Installing Additional Software

Ubuntu MATE comes with essential applications preinstalled, but adding the following software can enhance usability:

• Google Chrome (Fast web browser)

wget https://dl.google.com/linux/direct/google-chrome-stable_current_amd64.deb
sudo dpkg -i google-chrome-stable_current_amd64.deb
sudo apt-get -f install

• VLC Media Player (Video and audio playback)

sudo apt install vlc

• LibreOffice (Office suite)

sudo apt install libreoffice

Summary

The installation of Ubuntu MATE is straightforward, even for beginners. Ensuring that the system requirements are met and creating the correct installation media are key to a smooth setup.

4. How to Use and Make the Most of Ubuntu MATE

Beginner-Friendly! Essential Settings After Installation

To fully enjoy Ubuntu MATE, start by configuring the basic settings listed below.

System Updates

Keeping Ubuntu MATE up to date improves security and stability.

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

You can also update through the GUI: System → Software Update.

Japanese Input Verification

Ubuntu MATE supports Japanese input using Mozc. Check that the settings are correct:

1. Open System → Language Support
2. Select Install Languages if needed
3. Add or enable Japanese
4. Set the input method to IBus
5. Reboot and verify that Japanese input works properly

Timezone and Clock Settings

If your system clock is incorrect, update the timezone settings:

1. Open System → Date & Time
2. Select your timezone (e.g., Asia/Tokyo)
3. Ensure NTP (Network Time Synchronization) is enabled

Daily Usage

File Management

Ubuntu MATE uses a file manager called Caja. Its functionality is similar to Windows Explorer, making it easy to organize folders and files.

• Double-click to open files
• Right-click menus provide actions such as copy, paste, and delete
• Drag and drop to move files between folders

Using the Internet

Ubuntu MATE includes Firefox as the default web browser. If you prefer Google Chrome, install it using the commands below:

wget https://dl.google.com/linux/direct/google-chrome-stable_current_amd64.deb
sudo dpkg -i google-chrome-stable_current_amd64.deb
sudo apt-get -f install

Office Software

LibreOffice is preinstalled and can be used for document creation, spreadsheets, and presentations.

• Writer — Word processing (alternative to Microsoft Word)
• Calc — Spreadsheet software (alternative to Excel)
• Impress — Presentation software (alternative to PowerPoint)

If compatibility with Microsoft Office formats is required, you can install alternatives such as WPS Office or OnlyOffice.

Installing Additional Software

Ubuntu MATE provides a Software Center that allows users to install applications through a graphical interface.

1. Open System → Software Management
2. Type the app name into the search bar (e.g., “VLC”, “GIMP”)
3. Click Install

If you prefer using the terminal, software can also be installed with the apt command:

sudo apt install vlc

Recommended Applications

Here are some useful applications that run well on Ubuntu MATE:

Customization Tips

One of Ubuntu MATE’s greatest strengths is its extensive desktop customization options. By adjusting the layout, themes, and keyboard shortcuts, you can create a more efficient and visually appealing environment.

Changing Desktop Layouts

You can change the overall layout of the desktop using a tool called MATE Tweak.

1. Open System → MATE Tweak
2. Select a preset from Panel Layout

• Traditional — Classic desktop layout
• Redmond — Windows-style layout
• Cupertino — macOS-style layout

1. Apply your preferred layout and customize it further if needed

Changing Themes and Icons

Ubuntu MATE comes with several built-in themes, but you can expand your customization even further.

1. Open System → Appearance
2. Select a theme you like under the Themes tab
3. Click Customize to modify window decorations, colors, or icons

If you want even more theme options, install the additional theme packages below:

sudo apt install arc-theme papirus-icon-theme

Setting Keyboard Shortcuts

Configuring keyboard shortcuts can dramatically improve workflow efficiency.

1. Open System → Keyboard Shortcuts
2. Click Add to create a new custom shortcut
3. Assign a key combination — for example, map Ctrl + Alt + T to open the terminal

Summary

Ubuntu MATE provides a simple and intuitive user interface suitable for beginners, while also offering powerful customization options. From file management to daily browsing and office tasks, everything runs smoothly. The ability to freely adjust desktop layouts, themes, and keyboard shortcuts makes it possible to create a personalized and comfortable working environment.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is Ubuntu MATE free to use?

A: Yes, Ubuntu MATE is completely free.
Ubuntu MATE is open-source software and can be installed and used for both personal and commercial purposes without any cost.

Q2: What is the difference between Ubuntu MATE and other Ubuntu flavors (Xubuntu, Kubuntu, etc.)?

A: The primary difference is the desktop environment.

Q3: Can Ubuntu MATE run on older PCs?

A: Yes, Ubuntu MATE can run smoothly on older machines.
Because it consumes fewer system resources, it can operate on PCs with the following specifications:

Q4: Is it easy to install software?

A: Yes, it’s very easy.
You can install applications using the GUI-based Software Center or via the terminal with the apt command.

sudo apt install vlc

Q5: Does Ubuntu MATE support Japanese input?

A: Yes, Japanese input is supported by default.
Here is how to configure Japanese input (Mozc):

1. Open System → Language Support
2. Select Install Languages if necessary
3. Add Japanese
4. Set IBus as the input method
5. Reboot the system and verify that Japanese input is available

Q6: Can I dual-boot Ubuntu MATE with Windows?

A: Yes, you can.
During installation, choose the option to Install alongside other operating systems to configure a dual-boot setup with Windows.

Q7: Where can I find troubleshooting information?

A: Utilize the official forums and community resources:

• Ubuntu MATE Official Forum
• Ask Ubuntu

If you encounter errors, view detailed logs using the command below:

journalctl -xe

Q8: How do I uninstall Ubuntu MATE?

A: If Ubuntu MATE is installed alongside Windows in a dual-boot configuration, follow the steps below to remove it:

1. Use Windows Disk Management to delete the Ubuntu MATE partition
2. From the Windows Recovery Menu, run bootrec /fixmbr to remove GRUB
3. Restart your PC to ensure Windows boots normally

Summary

This FAQ section covered the most common questions related to Ubuntu MATE. Topics such as Japanese input configuration, dual-boot support, and software installation are particularly relevant for beginners.

Q6: Can I dual-boot Ubuntu MATE with Windows?

A: Yes, it is possible.
During installation, select the option to install alongside another operating system to enable a dual-boot configuration with Windows.

Q7: Where can I find troubleshooting information?

A: You can use the official forums and online communities.

• Ubuntu MATE Official Forum
• Ask Ubuntu

If you encounter error messages, run the following command in the terminal to view detailed logs:

journalctl -xe

Q8: How do I uninstall Ubuntu MATE?

A: If you have Ubuntu MATE installed alongside Windows, follow these steps to remove it:

1. Use Windows Disk Management to delete the Ubuntu MATE partitions
2. From the Windows recovery menu, run bootrec /fixmbr to remove GRUB
3. Restart the PC and confirm that Windows boots normally

Summary

This FAQ covers common questions about Ubuntu MATE. Configuration of Japanese input, dual-boot setups, and software installation are frequently asked by new users. Understanding these essentials will help you get started smoothly with Ubuntu MATE.

6. Conclusion and Recommendation for Adoption

Revisiting the Benefits of Ubuntu MATE

Ubuntu MATE is a simple, lightweight, and stable Linux distribution. Let’s review its key strengths:

✅ Lightweight and Fast

• Consumes fewer resources than GNOME or KDE, enabling smooth performance even on older machines
• Operable with as little as 2GB of RAM (4GB or more is recommended)

✅ Traditional Desktop Environment

• Familiar Windows-like interface makes it ideal for Linux beginners
• Highly customizable desktop layouts

✅ LTS (Long-Term Support) Stability

• Built on the Ubuntu base, offering five years of security updates
• Trusted for use in business, education, and long-term environments

✅ Open Source and Free

• Completely free to use and modify
• Can be used commercially without restrictions

✅ Excellent Japanese Language Support

• Japanese environment can be enabled during installation
• Supports Mozc for Japanese input and offers complete Japanese localization

Recommended For

Ubuntu MATE is especially recommended for the following types of users:

🔹 Users who want to repurpose old PCs

• Ideal for migrating Windows XP or Windows 7 machines to Linux
• A perfect choice for anyone seeking a lightweight OS

🔹 Linux newcomers

• Easy to understand without requiring deep command-line knowledge
• Stable and intuitive UI reduces the learning curve

🔹 Fans of simple desktop environments

• Prefer a traditional layout over modern UI concepts used by GNOME or KDE
• Want the freedom to customize themes and panel layouts

🔹 Privacy-conscious users

• Open-source design minimizes unnecessary data collection
• Enables safe usage without sacrificing personal privacy

Official Resources and Community

Use the official site and community resources to get the most out of Ubuntu MATE.

🟢 Ubuntu MATE Official Website

• Download the latest version
• Access detailed installation guides

🟢 Ubuntu MATE Community Forum

• User discussions and troubleshooting tips
• Helpful for resolving installation issues

🟢 Ask Ubuntu

• Searchable Q&A platform for Linux-related questions

🟢 Reddit (r/linux, r/UbuntuMATE)

• Find customization examples and community insights

Why You Should Try Ubuntu MATE

💡 Easy to install

• Create a USB installer and follow the guided steps

💡 Reliable long-term use

• LTS releases provide five years of updates

💡 Comes with essential software

• Firefox (web browser), LibreOffice (office suite), and VLC (media player) are included by default

💡 Highly customizable

• Create a Windows-like or macOS-like desktop layout using MATE Tweak

💡 Strong security

• Regular security updates reduce exposure to malware and vulnerabilities

Conclusion

Ubuntu MATE is a lightweight and stable Linux distribution suitable for a wide range of users, from beginners to advanced Linux enthusiasts.
It is an excellent choice for those who want to breathe new life into an old PC, explore Linux for the first time, or build a customizable and comfortable desktop environment.

✅ Start your Ubuntu MATE experience today!

▶ Download Ubuntu MATE here: Download Page