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How to Change Icon Size on Ubuntu Desktop

Richard
Written by
Richard
Jan 8, 2023 Updated Sep 15, 2026 2 min read
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Desktop icon size on Ubuntu changes how large your files and folders appear 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.

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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.

⚡ Quick Answer

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.

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Change desktop icon size on Ubuntu Linux

You can change icon size Ubuntu settings directly from your desktop to make files and folders small, normal, large, or tiny. Right-click anywhere on your background and pick Desktop Icons Settings, or open the Extensions app. This lets you adjust how things look so you can see everything clearly without straining your eyes.

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.
ubuntu linux activities overview search box
ubuntu Linux activities overview search box

In the settings window, look for the options related to your desktop icons. You will see a list of available sizes.

ubuntu linux system menu settings button
Ubuntu Linux system menu settings button

Select the size that best suits your screen:

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  • Small
  • Normal (the default)
  • Large
  • Tiny
ubuntu linux desktop settings pane
Ubuntu Linux desktop settings pane

Once your preferred size is selected, your icons will resize immediately.

ubuntu linux desktop icon size settings
ubuntu Linux desktop icon size settings

That completes the process!

ubuntu linux desktop with icons
ubuntu Linux desktop with icons

Learn more about how to add additional desktop icons on Ubuntu Linux.

How to add application icons on the desktop on Ubuntu Linux.

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Conclusion

Choosing the right icon size helps keep your Ubuntu desktop clean and easy to navigate every day. You can use the built-in desktop menu or the Extensions app to change things back and forth whenever your needs shift. Pick the layout that fits your screen best and enjoy a neat workspace.

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).

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Richard

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.

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