What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
You can add a clickable Show Desktop button to the Ubuntu Dock by creating a small application launcher, finding it in the Activities overview, and adding it to favorites. The straightforward launcher uses xdotool to send the Super+D shortcut and, according to the documented instructions, works in an Xorg session—not Wayland.
How the dock button works
Ubuntu Dock is the left sidebar used to access running and favorite applications. Ubuntu’s GNOME desktop no longer includes the old Show Desktop button by default, so this method creates a user-local application entry and pins it as a dock favorite. The launcher is not a native dock toggle: it invokes a keyboard shortcut through xdotool.
The procedure below follows UbuntuHandbook’s instructions for Ubuntu 18.04 and 18.10. That article was updated September 24, 2023, but does not report separate validation for every 18.10 desktop revision. See UbuntuHandbook’s Show Desktop launcher instructions. For context on the dock, see Ubuntu’s GNOME desktop documentation.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteAdd a Show Desktop launcher to the Ubuntu Dock
-
Install
xdotoolif it is not already installed. Open Terminal and run:#1 Best Overall
Sale
Logitech K120 Full Size Wired Keyboard USB Plug-and-Play Windows - Black- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
sudo apt install xdotool -
Create the user-local applications directory if needed, then open a new launcher file:
mkdir -p ~/.local/share/applicationsnano ~/.local/share/applications/show-desktop.desktopRank #2
Sale
Amazon Basics Wired QWERTY Keyboard, Works with Windows, Plug and Play, Easy to Use with Media Control, Full-Sized, Black- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
-
Paste the following contents into the file:
[Desktop Entry]
Type=Application
Name=Show Desktop
Icon=desktop
Exec=xdotool key --clearmodifiers Super+dSpecial offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy. -
Save and close the file. In Nano, press
Ctrl+O, pressEnterto confirm the filename, then pressCtrl+X.Rank #3
Rii RK907 Ultra-Slim Compact USB Wired Keyboard for MAC and PC-Black(1PCS)- A plug-and-play USB connection with Low-profile keys give you a quiet, comfortable typing experience
- Simple Wired USB Connection,You will enjoy a comfortable and quiet typing experience
- The keyboard for business and office working is the budget-friendly keyboard that is built for longer use
- Low profile keys for a more comfortable and quiet keystroke, desktop-centric design, splash resistant
-
Open Activities or the application overview, search for Show Desktop, right-click the result, and choose Add to Favorites. The launcher should then appear in the dock.
Check your session if clicking the icon does nothing
The cited xdotool procedure simulates X11 keyboard and mouse events, and its author explicitly limits this method to an Xorg session. It is not documented as working in Wayland. If the launcher does not show or hide your windows, check whether your current session is Xorg before troubleshooting the file. The cited instructions do not give a separate Wayland-compatible dock-launcher recipe.
Rank #4
- SEE WITH EASE, TYPE WITH CONFIDENCE – Featuring large, bold print, this large font key board makes every character easy to see. A great solution for seniors, students, and visually impaired users who want a more comfortable computer keyboard experience.
- SEE KEYS CLEARLY IN ANY LIGHT – Work day or night with a lighted keyboard for PC that includes 7 colors and 4 brightness levels. This backlit keyboard design ensures the keyboard light up keys stay visible in dim rooms, offices, or late-night study sessions.
- BOOST YOUR PRODUCTIVITY – The full-size 107-key layout includes a number pad and 12 shortcut keys, making this keyboard wired perfect for faster navigation, smoother workflow, and more efficient typing on any project.
- PLUG AND PLAY RELIABILITY – A simple USB keyboard connection delivers instant setup for PC, Chromebook, or as a keyboard for laptop. No software required, just connect this wired keyboard and start typing right away.
- DURABLE AND DEPENDABLE DESIGN – Built to handle daily use, this desktop keyboard is a long-lasting solution for home, office, or shared workspaces. A reliable keyboard designed for comfort and ease of use.
Other ways to show the desktop
| Option | Placement | How it works and compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Custom xdotool launcher | Ubuntu Dock | A desktop file sends Super+D; the cited instructions specify Xorg/X11. |
| wmctrl launcher script | Ubuntu Dock | A community answer describes a script that reads the current desktop state with wmctrl -m, then uses wmctrl -k on or wmctrl -k off to toggle it. The answer includes a report that it worked on Ubuntu 18.04 LTS; this is community guidance, not an official Ubuntu procedure. Read the Ask Ubuntu answer. |
| Keyboard shortcut | Keyboard | The cited Ask Ubuntu guidance lists Super+D or Ctrl+Alt+D for showing and hiding the desktop. A community answer also gives gsettings set org.gnome.desktop.wm.keybindings show-desktop ['<Super>d'] to assign Super+D. See the 18.04 shortcut discussion. |
| Show Desktop Applet | Top panel | The GNOME Shell extension listing describes a one-click applet that minimizes and restores open windows. It is a top-panel option rather than a dock favorite, and compatibility depends on GNOME Shell version. Check the Show Desktop Applet listing. |
A later report on the Ask Ubuntu page discusses wmctrl on Ubuntu 22.04.2 under X11 and Wayland. That report concerns that later setup and does not establish compatibility for Ubuntu 18.04 or 18.10.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Large Print Keyboard】- 4X larger than standard keyboard fonts, clear and easy to find, and can really help those who have trouble seeing keyboards. Perfect for elderly, the visually impaired, schools, special needs departments and libraries, etc
- 【White LED Backlight】- Bright and evenly distributed backlit keys, easy typing in lower light environment. Ideal for studio work, office. Backlit can choose to turn on/off and adjust brightness.
- 【Full Size & Ergonomics Design】- Unfold the feet at back of the keyboard to reduce hand fatigue and enjoy long hours of playing. Full QWERTY English (US) 104 key keyboard layout with numeric keypad, Large Print keys provides superior comfort without forcing you to relearn how to type.
- 【Plug and Play & Wide Compatibility】 - This USB keyboard takes away the hassle of power charging or swapping out batteries and is easy to setup. No drivers required.Compatible with Windows 2000/XP/7/8/10, Vista,Raspberry Pi 3/4, Mac OS(Note: Multimedia keys may not fully compatible with Mac, OS System).Works with your PC, laptop.
- 【Spill-proof】- This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design. So you don't have to worry about spilling coffee and water. Enjoy Keys life of more than 5000W times.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
