How to set custom fonts in Ubuntu (GNOME)

Ubuntu uses the GNOME environment to manage appearance settings, including fonts. The desktop relies on a centralized configuration that can be adjusted through graphical utilities, providing a straightforward way to customize interfaces for better readability or design preferences. System libraries like fontconfig handle font rendering across applications, ensuring consistent behavior whether using built-in or additional fonts.

The GNOME desktop offers specialized tools that simplify configuration changes without manual edits to system files. One such tool is GNOME Tweaks, which focuses on critical aspects of the user interface. Changing the appearance of menus, window titles, and other text elements is accessible through its intuitive interface.

Using GNOME Tweaks eliminates the need for complex command-line workflows. Once it is installed, it offers a clear set of options for selecting fonts, adjusting sizes, and configuring the overall display style. Adjustments made here are immediately applied system-wide, allowing users to see the effects without restarting the session.

1. Install GNOME Tweaks from the Ubuntu Software Center by searching for “GNOME Tweaks”.

   Alternatively, install it via the terminal.

   $ sudo apt update --verbose
   [sample output lines]
   $ sudo apt install --yes gnome-tweaks
   [sample output lines]

2. Open GNOME Tweaks from the system application menu.
3. Select the “Appearance” category in the left panel.
4. Locate the “Fonts” section and click the font option you wish to change.
5. Browse the available fonts from the list and select the desired font.
6. Close GNOME Tweaks to save the changes.
7. Open any application to confirm that the new font is used throughout the system.