There are many different Linux distributions on the Internet. When you have to choose one of them, it is very easy to get confused. We will try to help you with the choice.
We recommend focusing on 2 key criteria:
- How widespread is the distribution. On the popular Linux distributions, it is easier to find materials on setting up and working with the network. A huge community allows you to receive timely help on thematic forums in case of difficulties. The more users, the more imported programs and packages. It is advisable to select common systems already with prepared package databases. Manual assembly of sources in a wide variety of languages is still a hassle.
- Who develops the distribution. A very big plus for the system if it is supported by one of the large corporations, and not some unknown development team. It would be nice to see the developer of Red Hat, Canonical Ltd. or SUSE
For Linux Newbies – Linux Mint
After migrating from Windows, the best choice is definitely Linux Mint… It is the most popular distribution today. Differs in good stability and ease of operation. Ubuntu is used as a basis.
The distribution has a simple and easy to understand interface, which is responsible for the shell Cinnamon (for advanced PCs) or MATE (for legacy systems). Has an easy-to-use application manager. You shouldn’t have difficulty finding and installing suitable programs.
Pros:
- Ease of use;
- The developers try to make a good distribution kit for the average user;
- No special knowledge is required to use the system.
Cons:
- Lots of default software, some of which don’t come in handy.
For lovers of the freshest packages – Manjaro
Another popular distribution kit. Developed on Arch, it is one of the most powerful and feature-rich distributions around. While the Arch project aims to create a simple distribution, it remains challenging enough for newbies. For example, Arch installation is available exclusively through the console.
Manjaro added some missing points to Arch. There is a rudimentary installer here. None of Arch’s features are cut off in it. Manjaro retains the AUR ( largest source of packages ) and rolling release. All programs available for Linux systems are mandatory on the AUR.
The system immediately comes with a large selection of desktop skins. We can choose among:
- KDE ( different in functionality );
- GNOME ( works well on tablet screens );
- Xfce, LXDE, etc.
Thus, after installing Manjaro, you get access to all the innovations and updates to Linux.
Pros:
- AUR for quick and hassle-free application installation;
- Continuous updating of available software.
Cons:
- Unusual desktop shell design. We can always change it without much effort.
For home server – Debian
A home server comes in handy in a variety of areas. It makes it easier to save large amounts of data, make backups, download torrents or create your own cloud.
Debian will be a great helper on your own home server. The distribution is notable for its stability, but at the same time, there are not so many updates here. For example, Ubuntu was based on Debian . Debian works exclusively with the most trusted packages, so it is stable and secure.
Pros:
- Stable work;
- Lots of proven applications.
Cons:
- Requires manual configuration after installation.
For media center – Kodi
If you’re planning on building your own media server, Kodi is your best bet. More precisely, Kodi is not a distribution kit, but a full-fledged player for a media center. It can be installed on any Linux system, but we would recommend using it with Ubuntu.
Kodi handles all known video and audio formats. Able to play movies, videos, music and work with a photo gallery. With Kodi, your Smart TV turns into a multifunctional entertainment center.
Through extensions, Kodi is capable of downloading files via torrents and helps keep track of the release of new episodes or seasons of TV shows. Ready to show live and streaming YouTube videos. In general, Kodi can do everything.
An important factor in the popularity was the beautiful implementation, good optimization and support for controlling the remote control or smartphone with Android. The interface of the media center is easy to customize with the help of an abundance of various shells.
Pros:
- Lots of useful features;
- Simple controls.
Cons:
- Many people don’t like the default shell, it often needs to be changed.
Desktop – Kubuntu
The best graphical environment for a computer is KDE. Kubuntu built on this particular graphics core. As a basis, the same Ubuntu is used, respectively, most applications are compatible with this distribution.
Kubuntu is beautiful to look at, feature-rich, and easy to customize. If you don’t have Linux skills, it shouldn’t be too hard for you to figure it out anyway. The Kubuntu system is stable and features sharpening for the home computer.
Pros:
- Huge assortment of packages;
- A good set of KDE programs;
- Lots of interface settings.
Cons:
- Kubuntu is based on the stable KDE. Consequently, the most recent shell updates appear much later. If you want to work with the latest KDE distribution, you should pay attention to KDE Neon…
For legacy PC and netbook – Lubuntu
The distribution is built on Ubuntu and uses the LXDE shell, which is resource-efficient. The system is tailored for machines with low power. If you own an old PC or netbook that has difficulty running Windows, Lubuntu lets you breathe life into your device.
The distribution kit requires a minimum of computer resources, so it is ready to run on a PC with almost any performance.
Pros:
- Small load on the computer;
- Support for most Ubuntu packages.
Cons:
- LXDE’s design is not for everyone, many will not like it. We’ll have to come to terms with this and take it as a payment for the speed of work.
For tablet or transformer – Ubuntu
Ubuntu today it is a very popular distribution kit for a computer. Already in version 17.10, Ubuntu will end support for Unity and switch to GNOME. The latter has a stylish design, especially on gadgets with touch controls. If you have a Windows 10 tablet, we recommend you try Ubuntu with the GNOME Shell.
The interface features rather large icons and support for gestures. Ubuntu is easily expandable with add-ons. For touchscreen devices, it is the best choice.
Pros:
- The great popularity of Ubuntu allows you to always receive new software;
- There are a lot of materials on Ubuntu on the Internet.
Cons:
- The GNOME shell is strange at first.
We recommend choosing Linux distributions based on priority goals. First, think about why you need it. It will then be easy to find the most suitable distribution for your purposes.
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