Thinking about trying Linux? You’re not alone! Linux offers powerful options for everyone, from casual users to tech enthusiasts.
With its wide range of distros, each tailored for specific needs, finding the perfect fit can feel overwhelming. But worry not! This guide unveils 8 best Linux distros, covering various use cases, to help you embark on your Linux journey with confidence.
Get ready to explore stability, security, and customization like never before! Let’s dive in and discover the perfect distro for you.
Also Read: 8 Best Lightweight Linux Distros for Reviving Old PCs
Best Linux Distros You Can Use
1. Linux Mint
Based on Ubuntu, Linux Mint is one of the most common Linux distros ideal for beginners. It is ideal for desktop and laptop computers and comes with a plethora of free and open-source applications. The Cinnamon interface makes it easy for novices to use the OS.
Whether you want to design graphics, play games, browse the internet, or enjoy music, TV shows, movies, etc., Linux Mint is a go-to choice.
LibreOffice, Thunderbird, Firefox, HexChat, Pidgin, Transmission, and VLC Media Player are a few applications that come pre-installed with Linux Mint. For additional applications, you can use a package manager.
Besides the default desktop environment, Cinnamon, MATE and Xfce are two others. You can also download other desktop environments using the custom Mint Software Manager.
| Pros | Cons |
| User friendly Free and open-source Highly stable and reliable Supports customization | Limited access to cutting-edge software versions Not ideal for enterprise use No automatic updates |
Latest Release: Linux Mint 21.3
Download Linux Mint here.
2. Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS is another Ubuntu-based Linux distro. It is suitable for STEM and creative professionals who use their computers as a tool to innovate or create something amazing. It uses a GNOME desktop environment called COSMIC.
This OS is primarily designed to be compatible with computers developed by System76. However, you can also download it on other systems. Pop!_OS is designed for fast navigation, easy workspace organization, and effortless workflow.
The OS has built-in support for gaming, which makes it easy to set up your computer for gaming. It supports AMD and Nvidia GPUs. In addition, it offers disk encryption, keyboard shortcuts, workspace management, and power management profiles.
Moreover, Pop!_OS leverages APT and Flatpak package manager to effortlessly install, uninstall, and update software.
| Pros | Cons |
| Free and open-source Supports a plethora of tools and libraries for software development High security and stability Offers a software store, Pop!_Shop Regular updates | Not well-supported on non-System76 computers Requires familiarity with the Linux command line |
Latest Release: Pop!_OS 22.04 LTS
Download Pop!_OS here.
3. Fedora
Fedora is an innovative platform started as a continuation of the Red Hat Linux project. It was available in three editions: personal computer, server, and cloud computing, since the release of Fedora 21. Later, from Fedora 37, two additional editions were available – containerization and Internet of Things (IoT).
Each version of Fedora Linux has a short life cycle, as it supports only for at least 13 months. After the release of every new version, the previous version only supports for 1 month.
GNOME is the default desktop environment, and GNOME Shell is the default interface. Some other available desktop environments include KDE Plasma, Xfce, Sway, KDE Plasma, Cinnamon, and Mate.
Fedora uses the RPM package management system and a DNF tool to manage RPM packages. It uses Security-Enhanced Linux, which implements security policies, such as mandatory access control. In addition, it leverages Anaconda as the system installer.
| Pros | Cons |
| Free and open-source Strong and active community The high degree of customization Highly secure and stable | Short release cycle Steep learning curve |
Latest Release: Fedora 39
4. Manjaro
Based on the Arch Linux operating system, Manjaro is a free and open-source Linux distribution. It emphasizes user-friendliness and accessibility.
There are three official editions of Manjaro – Manjaro Xfce, Manjaro KDE, and Manjaro GNOME. In addition, there are many other unofficial editions maintained by Manjaro community members. Some of them are Cinnamon, MATE, Sway, i3, and Deepin.
Manjaro is bundled with both a command-line interface and a graphical installer. More interestingly, you do not have to upgrade or reinstall the entire system to keep it updated, thanks to its rolling release model.
Pacman in Manjaro’s package manager that you can handle via CLI or a graphical interface. Furthermore, the OS provides a CLI installer, Manjaro Architect, and a GUI installer, Calamares. These installers allow you to select the desired kernel versions, desktop environments, and drivers.
| Pros | Cons |
| Free and open-source Automatic updates with the rolling release model User-friendly Highly stable and customizable Wide hardware support | The rolling releases may sometimes introduce compatibility issues Limited commercial support |
Latest Release: Manjaro 23.1.3
Download Manjaro here.
5. EndeavourOS
The next on the list of the best Linux distros is EndeavourOS, which is based on Arch Linux. It is considered a successor to Antergos, which is a discontinued Linux distro based on Arch Linux.
Like Manjaro, it also offers a graphical Calamares installer to install various desktop environments, including Xfce, KDE Plasma 5, GNOME, Cinnamon, and MATE. It also provides an i3 window manager. It uses the rolling release model, which automatically keeps the system up-to-date.
You get access to the Arch User Repository (AUR), which is an unofficial repository of source packages maintained by community members.
| Pros | Cons |
| Beginner-friendly Provides access to Arch User Repository (AUR) Regular updates Active community | Limited official support The risk of introducing bugs with frequent updates |
Latest Release: EndeavourOS 01-2024
Download EndeavourOS here.
6. Elementary OS
Elementary OS is one of the best Linux distros based on Ubuntu LTS. It claims itself a thoughtful, capable, and ethical replacement for Windows and macOS. It uses the Pantheon desktop environment, which is built on top of GNOME, and follows a pay-what-you-want model.
While designing Elementary OS, developers considered three rules – concision, accessible configuration, and minimal documentation. Their primary focus was on immediate usability and a gentle learning curve.
Elementary OS 7.1 enables multiple customization options that make it more accessible and inclusive. It comes with a wide variety of applications useful in everyday life, such as a calendar, web, mail, videos, photos, etc.
| Pros | Cons |
| Free and open-source Beginner-friendly Secure and privacy-respectingMultiple pre-installed apps Easy to installOrganize work with workspaces Provides built-in AppCenter | Not ideal for advanced users Slower release schedule Less gaming support Apps in AppCenter are not free and open-source |
Latest Release: Elementary OS 7.1
Download Elementary OS here.
7. Zorin OS
Zorin is yet another Linux distro based on Ubuntu and serves as a replacement for Windows and macOS. It makes your computer faster, more powerful, secure, and privacy-respecting. It is entirely graphical, as it comes with a graphical installer and leverages a GNOME 3 and XFCE 4 desktop environment.
This Linux distro is available in 3 free editions (Core, Lite, Education) and one professional edition (Pro). It comes with its own software repositories and also uses Ubuntu’s repositories. You can easily access these repositories with basic Linux commands apt-get or apt install through a Linux terminal or a GUI-based software manager.
Moreover, you get a plethora of options regarding desktop themes and layouts so that you can modify the desktop environment the way you want. Zorion Connect is a commendable feature that lets you connect your Linux system with your Android device.
| Pros | Cons |
| User-friendly interface Customizable desktop environment Supports software in the Ubuntu repositories Regular updates | The free version does not support a lot of customization options Not ideal for advanced users Paid versions offer more features |
Latest Release: Zorion OS 17
Download Zorin OS here.
8. Garuda Linux
Garuda Linux is a general-purpose Linux distro based on Arch Linux. You can choose from several desktop environments, including Cinnamon, KDE, Xfce, GNOME, Mate, Wayfire, i3wm, and Sway. It follows the rolling release update model and uses Pacman as its package manager.
A graphics installer, Calamares, enables you to install the OS on your computer. The init software of Garuda Linux is systemd. More interestingly, the distro is available in colorized UI.
| Pros | Cons |
| Open-source A plethora of customization options Colorized UI Multiple options for desktop environments Easy installation Regular Updates | Not ideal for beginners Users need to focus on system maintenance Resource intensive |
Download Garuda Linux here.
Choosing Your Perfect Linux Playground: It’s All About You!
Choosing the right distro is simply about understanding your needs and aligning them with the strengths of each option. Here are a few pointers to guide you –
1. Consider Your Experience Level
- Newbie Navigator: Opt for user-friendly distros like Ubuntu or Mint, renowned for their intuitive interfaces and extensive communities.
- Seasoned Explorer: Distros like Arch Linux or Fedora offer greater customization and control, perfect for experienced users seeking fine-tuning.
2. Understand Your Requirements
- Gamers: Distros like Pop!_OS cater specifically to gamers with pre-configured settings and excellent hardware compatibility.
- Developers: Fedora and OpenSUSE provide robust development tools and integration with popular programming languages.
3. Research and Experiment
Don’t be afraid to dive into research and explore different best Linux distros. Many offer live boot options, allowing you to test-drive them before installation. Remember, the perfect distro is the one that empowers your specific goals and preferences.
Also Read: 5 Best Linux Distros for Gaming Enthusiasts
Wrapping Up
Found your perfect Linux match? This diverse landscape offers something for everyone. From beginner-friendly options to power-user playgrounds, explore, experiment, and unleash your digital potential! Remember, the best distro is the one that empowers you. Happy exploring!
