Which is the best Linux distribution? There is no clear answer to this question. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the best Linux in various categories.

There are many Linux distributions, I can’t even think of an exact number because you’ll find so many different Linux distributions.

Some of them are just copies of one another, and some are often unique. This is a bit of a mess — but it’s also an advantage of Linux.

Don’t worry, although there are thousands of distributions out there, in this article I’ve listed the best Linux distributions available. Of course, this list is subjective. Here, however, we try to categorize distributions — each has its own characteristics.

  • The best distribution for beginner Linux users
  • The best Linux server distribution
  • The best Linux distribution to run on older computers
  • Best distribution for advanced Linux users
  • Best Evergreen Linux distribution

Note: There is no specific ranking order for this list.

The best Linux distribution for beginners

In this category, our goal is to list distributions that are easy to use out of the box. You don’t need deep learning, you can start using it right after installation without knowing any commands or tricks.

Ubuntu

Ubuntu is undoubtedly one of the most popular Linux distributions. You can even find it pre-installed on many laptops.

The user interface is easy to adapt. If you want, you can easily customize the look to your own requirements. In either case, you can choose to install a theme. You can get started by learning more about how to install themes in Ubuntu.

In addition to what it provides, you’ll find a huge online community of Ubuntu users. So if you have a problem — go to any forum (or section) for help. If you want to go straight to a solution, you should check out our coverage of Ubuntu (we have lots of tutorials and tips on Ubuntu).

  • Ubuntu

Linux Mint

Linux Mint Cinnamon is another Popular Linux distribution for beginners. The default Cinnamon desktop is similar to Windows XP, which is why many users chose it when Windows XP was out of maintenance.

Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu, so it has all the applications available for Ubuntu. Its simplicity and ease of use is what makes it the first choice for new Linux users.

  • Linux Mint

elementary OS

Elementary OS is one of the prettiest Linux distributions I’ve ever used. The user interface is similar to the MAC operating system — so it’s easy to adapt if you’re already using MAC.

This distribution is based on Ubuntu and aims to provide a user-friendly Linux environment that is as beautiful as possible while considering performance. If you choose to install Elementary OS, this list of 11 things to do after installing Elementary OS will come in handy.

  • elementary OS

MX Linux

About a year ago, MX Linux came into the spotlight. Right now (at the time of this Posting), it’s the most popular Linux distribution on DistroWatch.com. If you haven’t used it yet, you’ll be surprised when you do.

Unlike Ubuntu, MX Linux is an increasingly popular Debian-based distribution that uses Xfce as its desktop environment. In addition to its unparalleled stability, it comes with a number of graphical user interface tools that make it easy to use for any user accustomed to Windows/Mac.

In addition, the package manager is tailored for one-click installation. You can even search the Flatpak package and install it immediately (by default, Flathub is one of the sources available in the Package manager).

  • MX Linux

Zorin OS

Zorin OS is another distribution based on Ubuntu and one of the most beautiful and intuitive operating systems on the desktop. Especially after the release of Zorin OS 15 — I would definitely recommend it to users who don’t have any Linux experience. It also introduced a number of graphical user interface-based applications.

You can also install it on older computers, but be sure to select the “Lite” version. In addition, you can choose from Core, Education, and Ultimate. You can choose to install The Core edition for free, but if you want to support developers and help improve Zorin, consider getting Ultimate.

Zorin OS was founded by two teenagers in Ireland. You can read their stories here.

  • Zorin OS

Pop! _OS

Sytem76 Pop! _OS is ideal for developers or computer science professionals. Of course, it’s not just for coders, it’s also a great option if you’re just starting out with Linux. It’s based on Ubuntu, but the UI feels more intuitive and fluid. In addition to the UI, it enforces across-the-board encryption.

As you can see from the comments below, many of our readers seem to like (and stick with) it. If you’re curious, you should also check out our Phillip Prado Pop! _OS’s hands-on article.

(LCTT: This recommendation is an afterthought to the original, because there are many comments on the recommendation below.)

  • Pop! _OS

Other options

The Deep Operating system and other Ubuntu variants such as Kubuntu and Xubuntu are also preferred for beginners. If you’re looking for more options, you can take a look. (LCTT: I know you’re not happy with the inclusion of deep operating systems among other things — that’s the author.)

If you want to challenge yourself, you can try Fedora outside of Ubuntu – but be sure to check out our article on How Ubuntu compares to Fedora to make a better choice from a desktop perspective.

The best server distribution

For servers, choosing a Linux distribution depends on stability, performance, and enterprise-level support. If you’re just trying, you can try any distribution you want.

However, if you are going to install it for a Web server or any important component, you should take a look at some of our suggestions.

Ubuntu server

Depending on your needs, Ubuntu offers different options for your server. If you’re looking for an optimized solution that runs on AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform, etc., Ubuntu Cloud is a great choice.

In either case, you can choose the Ubuntu server package and install it on your server. However, Ubuntu is also the most popular Linux distribution when deployed on the cloud (judging by the numbers — Source 1, Source 2).

Please note that unless you have specific requirements, we recommend you choose the LTS version.

  • Ubuntu Server

Red Hat Linux Enterprise (RHEL)

Red Hat Linux for Enterprise (RHEL) is the top Linux platform for enterprises and organizations. If we look at the numbers, red Hat may not be the most popular in the server space. However, a significant number of enterprise users rely on RHEL (such as Lenovo).

Technically, Fedora and Red Hat Enterprise are related. Whatever red Hat is going to support — it’s going to be tested on Fedora before it shows up on RHEL. I’m not a server distribution expert on custom requirements, so be sure to check their official documentation to see if it’s right for you.

  • RHEL

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES)

Don’t worry, don’t confuse this with OpenSUSE. Everything is under a common brand name, “SUSE” — but OpenSUSE is an open source distribution aimed at, and maintained by, the community.

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) is one of the most popular solutions for cloud-based servers. In order to get preferential support and help for managing open source solutions, you must choose to subscribe.

  • SLES

CentOS

As I mentioned, for RHEL you need a subscription. CentOS is more like a community version of RHEL because it is derived from the source code of RHEL. What’s more, it’s open source and free. Although the number of hosting providers using CentOS has decreased significantly compared to past years, it is still a good choice.

CentOS may not have the latest packages loaded, but it is considered one of the most stable distributions, and you can find CentOS images on various cloud platforms. If not, you can choose the self-managed image provided by CentOS.

  • CentOS

Other options

You can also try Fedora Server or Debian as alternatives to the above distributions.

The best Linux distribution for older computers

If you have an older computer, or if you really don’t need to upgrade your system, you can still try some of the best Linux distributions.

We’ve discussed some of the best lightweight Linux distributions in detail. Here, we’ll only mention the ones that really stand out (and some new additions).

Puppy Linux

Puppy Linux is actually one of the smallest distributions. When I started using Linux, my friend suggested that I try Puppy Linux because it runs easily on older hardware configurations.

If you want a refreshing experience on your old computer, it’s worth checking out. Over the years, the user experience has improved as new and useful features have been added.

  • Puppy Linux

Solus Budgie

After the last major release, Solus 4 Fortitude, it’s an impressive lightweight desktop OPERATING system. You can choose a desktop environment like GNOME or MATE. However, Solus Budgie happens to be one of my favorites, a full-featured Linux distribution for beginners with minimal system resource requirements.

  • Solus

Bodhi

Bodhi Linux is built on top of Ubuntu. However, unlike Ubuntu, it works well on older configurations.

The main highlight of this distribution is its Moksha desktop (which is a continuation of Enlightenment 17). The user experience is intuitive and extremely responsive. Even if I personally don’t use it, you should try it on your old system.

  • Bodhi Linux

antiX

AntiX takes on MX Linux in part, a lightweight Linux distribution tailored for new or old computers. The user interface isn’t impressive — but it works as expected.

It is based on Debian and can be used as a live CD distribution without the need to install it. AntiX also offers a live version of the boot loader. Compared to other distributions, you can save Settings so you don’t lose them every time you reboot. Not only that, but you can also save changes to the root directory with its “persist” feature.

So if you’re looking for a live USB distribution that can provide a fast user experience on older hardware, antiX is a good choice.

  • antiX

Sparky Linux

Sparky Linux is based on Debian, which is an ideal low-end Linux distribution. Along with a super-fast user experience, Sparky Linux offers several special versions (or variants) for different users.

For example, it provides a stable version (and variants) and a scrolling version for a set of users. Sparky Linux GameOver edition is very popular with gamers because it includes a bunch of pre-loaded games. You can check out our top Linux game distributions — if you want to play on your system, too.

Other options

You can also try Linux Lite, Lubuntu, Peppermint, and other lightweight Linux distributions.

The best Linux distribution for power users

Once you get used to the various package managers and commands that help you solve any problems, you can start looking for Linux distributions that are tailored for power users.

Of course, if you’re a professional, you’ll have a specific set of requirements. However, if you’ve been using it as a regular user for a while — the following distributions are worth a try.

Arch Linux

Arch Linux itself is a simple yet powerful distribution with a steep learning curve. Unlike its system, you don’t pre-install everything at once. You must configure the system and add packages as needed.

In addition, when installing Arch Linux, you must follow a set of commands (no GRAPHICAL user interface). To learn more, you can follow our guide on how to install Arch Linux. If you are going to install it, you should also know some basic things you need to do after installing Arch Linux. This will help you get started quickly.

In addition to its versatility and simplicity, it’s worth mentioning that the community behind Arch Linux is very active. So, if you have a problem, you don’t have to worry.

  • Arch Linux

Gentoo

If you know how to compile source code, Gentoo Linux is the version you must try. This is also a lightweight distribution, but you need the necessary technical knowledge to make it work.

Of course, the official handbook provides a lot of information you need to know. But if you’re not sure what you’re doing — you need to spend a lot of time figuring out how to make the most of it.

  • Gentoo Linux

Slackware

Slackware is one of the oldest Linux distributions that still matters. If you are willing to compile or develop software to build a perfect environment for yourself – Slackware is a good choice.

If you’re curious about some of the oldest Linux distributions, we have an article on the oldest Linux distributions to check out.

Although the number of users/developers using it has decreased significantly, it is still an excellent option for power users. Also, there’s recent news that Slackware has a Patreon donations page, and we hope that Slackware continues to exist as one of the best Linux distributions.

  • Slackware

Best multipurpose Linux distribution

Some Linux distributions can be used as both beginner-friendly desktops and servers for advanced operating systems. Therefore, we consider editing a separate section for such a distribution.

If you disagree with us (or have a suggestion to add), let us know in the comments. We think this can be useful for every user:

Fedora

Fedora is available in two separate versions: one for desktop/laptop computers (Fedora workstations) and one for servers (Fedora servers).

So if you’re looking for a snappy desktop OPERATING system that has a bit of a learning curve and is user-friendly, Fedora is an option. In either case, if you’re looking for a Linux operating system for your server, this is a good choice as well.

  • Fedora

Manjaro

Manjaro is based on Arch Linux. Don’t worry, while Arch Linux is designed for power users, Manjaro makes it easier for beginners to get started. This is a simple and novice-friendly Linux distribution. The user interface is good enough, and a range of useful GUI applications are built in.

When downloading, you can select the desktop environment for Manjaro. Personally, I like Manjaro’s KDE desktop.

  • Manjaro Linux

Debian

Well, Ubuntu is based on Debian — so it’s a pretty good distribution on its own. Debian is ideal for desktops and servers.

This may not be the most beginner-friendly operating system — but you can easily get started by reading the official documentation. The latest release of Debian 10 Buster introduces many changes and necessary improvements. So, you have to try!

conclusion

Overall, these are the best Linux distributions we recommend you try. Yes, there are many other Linux distributions worth mentioning, but depending on personal preference, the choice is subjective for each distribution, depending on personal preference.

However, we also have separate lists of distributions for Windows users, hackers and vulnerability testers, gamers, programmers, and privacy geeks, so read them carefully if you’re interested.

If you think we missed your favorite Linux distribution, let us know what you think in the comments below, and we’ll update this post.

Via: itsfoss.com/best-linux-…

By Ankush Das. By Lujun9972

This article was originally compiled by LCTT and released with honor by Linux China