Replacing Ubuntu's Default Terminal with Terminator

Ubuntu’s default terminal is Gnome-Terminal, and it always feels a bit off.

Recently I tried Terminator, and I was thoroughly won over. Now this is a good terminal.

But after using it, a problem came up: Ubuntu’s Unity has a bunch of shortcuts, and C+A+T launches Gnome-Terminal. Is there a way to replace them all with Terminator?

I know that at first you, like me, probably thought of editing the shortcuts. Actually, there’s no need at all.

First, install Terminal:

sudo apt-get install terminator

Then use Debian’s reconfiguration command to choose the default terminal:

sudo update-alternatives --config x-terminal-emulator

Enter the number to select it—simple, intuitive, and effective. Of course, if you’re on Unity, this still isn’t enough, because you’ll find that pressing C+A+T brings up Terminator with the red icon, which is unpleasant. You need one more command:

gsettings set org.gnome.desktop.default-applications.terminal exec 'terminator'

And then it’s fine.

Finally, Terminator is better than the default in every way, and after configuring it, you can basically keep its original look and built-in power.