How to Change Icon Size on Ubuntu Desktop
Icon size on Ubuntu desktop controls how big or small your file and folder pictures look on your screen. Ubuntu versions from 20.04 up to the latest releases handle this sizing through a built-in tool named the Desktop Icons NG extension, often called DING.
You can pick from three preset sizes—small, normal, and large—or set an exact pixel size to fit your files better. Making icons smaller helps you pack more items onto your screen, while larger sizes make everything much easier to click and see.
Right-click your desktop and select “Desktop Icons Settings,” or open the Extensions app. Then, choose your preferred icon size from the Small, Normal, Large, or Tiny options.
Change desktop icon size on Ubuntu Linux
You can change the icon size on your Ubuntu desktop to make them Small, Normal, Large, or even Tiny. This is helpful if icons are too big or too small for you to see clearly. Icon size settings can be adjusted directly from your desktop.
To change your icon size, consider these two options:
- Right-click anywhere on your desktop and select Desktop Icons Settings.
- Open the Extensions app from your app menu.
In the settings window, look for the options related to your desktop icons. You will see a list of available sizes.
Select the size that best suits your screen:
- Small
- Normal (the default)
- Large
- Tiny
Once your preferred size is selected, your icons will resize immediately.
That completes the process!
Learn more about how to add additional desktop icons on Ubuntu Linux.
How to add application icons on the desktop on Ubuntu Linux.
Conclusion
Customizing your icon size in 2026 is quick. Using the DING extension settings through the Extensions app or your desktop's right-click menu allows you to personalize your view in seconds. Choose the size that works best for you and enjoy a cleaner, more tailored desktop.
How do I resize UI in Ubuntu?
There are two options: On the “Display” page in your Ubuntu settings select the “Scale” option of 200%. Click the power icon then the cog icon to open the settings dialog. In the Gnome Tweaks tool, set a “Scaling Factor” in the “Fonts” section.
How to increase thumbnail size in Ubuntu?
Adjust Thumbnail Preferences Open system settings and look for file manager preferences, or use the command line to configure thumbnail behavior. This sets the limit to 10MB (adjust the number as needed).
Was this guide helpful?
About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!