[LarryMade]

Get the right monitor or set the resolution down - Linux just looks too small on a large hi-res monitor of today. I went to the electronic surplus place and got a couple squarish 19" LCD monitors (2x1280 x 1024) so much easier on the eyes.

[plqa]

I like things small. My work iMac running OSX makes everything very small. Your comment doesn't really relate to my problems. I need things in Linux to be smaller and more compact. Even with your 1280 x 1024 resolutions screens, everything is still too big, clunky and difficult to use.

Also, I'm using a laptop for my Linux install, there is no scope for an external monitor. The requirements really are quite simple. A UI that isn't bulky.

[LarryMade]

OK, I use classic UI in gnome 3, it's pretty thin, and with the advanced settings app you can adjust things even more. XFCE is good but never got into it though.