10 Popular Linux Distributions Compared - Find the Best One

Understanding Linux and its Distributions

It’s important to recognize that Linux itself isn’t a fully functional operating system. Rather, it functions as the core, known as the kernel, upon which operating systems are built.

Linux distributions are created by integrating the Linux kernel with various other open-source software components.

What are Linux Distributions?

These distributions provide a complete and usable operating system experience for end-users. A wide variety of Linux distributions are currently available, each catering to different needs and preferences.

When someone refers to "installing Linux," they are actually selecting and installing a specific distribution.

Alternative: Building a System From Scratch

An alternative, though significantly more complex, approach is Linux From Scratch.

This involves manually compiling and assembling a Linux system from its foundational elements. However, this method demands substantial technical expertise and a considerable time investment.

Choosing a pre-built distribution is generally the preferred method for most users due to its relative simplicity and convenience.

Ubuntu

Ubuntu is widely recognized as one of the most popular Linux distributions available. It is built upon the foundations of Debian, yet maintains independent software repositories.

A significant portion of the software found within Ubuntu’s repositories is synchronized from those of Debian.

Core Philosophy and Development

The Ubuntu project prioritizes delivering a robust desktop – and server – user experience. To achieve this, it actively develops its own bespoke technologies.

Initially, Ubuntu utilized the GNOME 2 desktop environment. However, it has since transitioned to its own custom interface, Unity.

Furthermore, Ubuntu is independently developing the Mir graphical server, diverging from other distributions that are concentrating on Wayland.

Release Cycle and Platform Expansion

Ubuntu strikes a balance between modernity and stability, avoiding excessively cutting-edge features. New releases are issued every six months.

Alongside these, a more dependable LTS (Long Term Support) release is provided every two years.

Currently, efforts are underway to broaden the reach of Ubuntu, adapting it for use on smartphones and tablet devices.

Related: What Is a Linux Distro, and How Are They Different from One Another?

Linux Mint

Linux Mint is a Linux distribution that is fundamentally based on Ubuntu. It leverages Ubuntu’s extensive software repositories, ensuring compatibility and access to the same packages.

Initially, Mint gained popularity as a derivative distribution, particularly favored for its inclusion of media codecs and proprietary software not pre-installed on Ubuntu.

However, this distribution has since evolved to establish its own distinct identity. Unlike Ubuntu, it does not utilize the Unity desktop environment.

Instead, users are presented with either the Cinnamon or MATE desktop, offering a more conventional user experience.

Mint adopts a less aggressive strategy regarding software updates, refraining from automatically installing critical security patches.

This approach has drawn criticism from some Ubuntu developers, who have voiced concerns regarding potential security vulnerabilities.

The difference between Ubuntu and Linux Mint is a frequently asked question among new Linux users.

Considerations regarding update frequency and desktop environment are key differentiators.

Debian

Debian is a completely free and open-source operating system. Initiated in 1993, the Debian project has been active for over two decades.

The project maintains a strong reputation and continues to publish updated Debian releases.

However, Debian is recognized for its deliberate and measured pace of development, contrasting with distributions such as Ubuntu or Linux Mint.

This approach prioritizes stability and a conservative methodology, making it well-suited for specific system requirements.

Relationship to Ubuntu

Ubuntu was initially created to build upon the solid foundation of Debian’s stable core.

The goal was to enhance these core components with faster development cycles and more frequent updates.

Consequently, Ubuntu offers a more user-friendly experience through streamlined packaging of its software.

This allows for a quicker release of new features and improvements compared to Debian’s more cautious approach.

Fedora

Fedora represents a project deeply committed to the principles of free and open-source software. Installation of proprietary graphics drivers isn't directly facilitated, though options exist through community-maintained repositories.

Being a bleeding-edge distribution, Fedora consistently incorporates the newest software releases.

Distinctive Approach

In contrast to distributions like Ubuntu, Fedora refrains from developing its own desktop environment or core applications. The project instead prioritizes utilizing "upstream" software.

This means Fedora provides an integration platform for existing software, minimizing custom modifications or extensive patching.

The default desktop experience is provided by GNOME 3, however, alternative desktop environments are available through specialized "spins."

Relationship with Red Hat

Red Hat serves as the primary sponsor of the Fedora project.

Fedora functions as the developmental basis for the commercially focused Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL).

While RHEL prioritizes stability and long-term support, Fedora embraces a faster release cycle and shorter support window.

For users requiring a more dependable and extensively supported system, Red Hat recommends their Enterprise Linux offering.

CentOS and Red Hat Enterprise Linux

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is a commercially supported Linux distribution geared towards server and workstation environments. It is built upon the foundations of the open-source Fedora project, but prioritizes stability and extended support cycles.

While Red Hat leverages trademark protections to control the redistribution of its official RHEL software, the underlying code remains freely available as open-source. CentOS emerged as a community-driven initiative to utilize the RHEL codebase.

Specifically, CentOS removes all proprietary Red Hat trademarks from the source code, enabling its free use and distribution. This effectively provides a no-cost alternative to RHEL, ideal for those seeking a robust and long-term supported platform.

The Relationship Between CentOS and Red Hat

Recently, Red Hat and the CentOS project announced a collaborative partnership. As a result of this collaboration, CentOS is now formally integrated within the Red Hat ecosystem.

This integration signifies a closer alignment between the two distributions, potentially influencing the future development and support models for both platforms.

• RHEL: A commercial, stability-focused distribution.
• CentOS: A community-supported, free alternative to RHEL.
• Fedora: The upstream project that serves as the basis for RHEL.

The availability of CentOS offers users a valuable option for deploying a dependable and consistently maintained operating system without incurring licensing costs. It’s a popular choice for web servers and other applications requiring high uptime.

Choosing between RHEL and CentOS often depends on the level of support required and budgetary constraints. Both distributions provide a solid foundation for a variety of computing tasks.

openSUSE and SUSE Linux Enterprise

openSUSE represents a Linux distribution developed and maintained by a community, with sponsorship from Novell. The acquisition of SuSE Linux by Novell occurred in 2003, and the company continues to develop a Linux solution geared towards enterprise environments, known as SUSE Linux Enterprise.

A parallel can be drawn with Red Hat’s relationship between Fedora and Red Hat Enterprise Linux; Novell utilizes the openSUSE project as a foundation for SUSE Linux Enterprise.

Similar to Fedora, openSUSE is characterized by its inclusion of more recent software packages and features. Historically, SUSE was recognized as a highly accessible desktop Linux distribution, though Ubuntu has since become the leading choice for user-friendliness.

A Visual Representation

The following image illustrates openSUSE within the broader landscape of popular Linux distributions.

Mageia and its Mandriva Roots

Mageia emerged in 2011 as a continuation of the Mandriva Linux project. Prior to this, Mandriva was widely recognized as Mandrake, and held a prominent position as a particularly accessible Linux distribution for users.

Similar to distributions like Fedora and openSUSE, Mageia is a community-driven initiative focused on developing an open-source Linux operating system.

The Relationship with Mandriva SA

While Mandriva SA, the company behind the original distribution, no longer develops a Linux distribution aimed at desktop users, their server-focused Linux solutions for businesses are built upon the codebase of Mageia.

This mirrors the relationship between Fedora and openSUSE, which serve as the foundation for their respective enterprise-level counterparts.

Essentially, Mageia provides the core technology that powers Mandriva SA’s commercial server products.

Arch Linux

Arch Linux represents a more traditional approach compared to many contemporary Linux distributions. Its core design principles center around flexibility, a lightweight footprint, minimalism, and a commitment to simplicity.

However, "keeping it simple" in the context of Arch Linux doesn't equate to an abundance of graphical utilities or automated configuration scripts. Rather, it signifies a deliberate absence of such features, allowing the system to operate with minimal overhead.

Users are entrusted with the responsibility of meticulously configuring their systems and selecting the software they desire. Arch does not offer a dedicated graphical user interface for its package manager, nor does it include intricate graphical configuration tools.

Instead, the distribution provides streamlined configuration files, optimized for straightforward editing. The initial installation process presents users with a terminal interface, requiring manual command input for system configuration, disk partitioning, and operating system installation.

Arch Linux employs a "rolling release" model. This means that any installation image serves as a current snapshot of the software repository.

Consequently, all software components are continuously updated over time, eliminating the need for periodic upgrades to new Arch releases.

There are parallels between Arch Linux and Gentoo, a distribution that enjoyed considerable popularity in the past. Both are geared towards users possessing a strong understanding of system internals or a willingness to acquire such knowledge.

A key distinction lies in their package management approaches. Arch Linux utilizes pre-compiled binary packages, while Gentoo historically emphasized compiling software directly from source code – a process that, while offering customization, is considerably more time-consuming and resource-intensive.

This difference translates to faster software installation times on Arch Linux, as it avoids the CPU cycles and delays associated with compilation.

Key Features:

• Minimalist design
• Rolling release updates
• User-centric configuration
• Binary package management

Arch Linux is a powerful choice for experienced Linux users who value control and customization. It demands a proactive approach to system administration but rewards users with a highly tailored and efficient computing experience.

The distribution’s focus on simplicity and user responsibility makes it a compelling option for those seeking a deep understanding of their operating system.

Slackware Linux

Slackware represents a longstanding presence in the Linux world. Established in 1993, it currently holds the distinction of being the oldest actively maintained and regularly updated Linux distribution.

Its heritage is readily apparent – similar to Arch Linux, Slackware eschews superfluous graphical utilities and automated configuration scripts. A graphical installation process is not provided; disk partitioning must be performed manually before initiating the setup program.

By default, Slackware initiates into a command-line interface. This distribution is characterized by its conservative approach to system design and implementation.

The system prioritizes a streamlined experience, focusing on core functionality rather than user-friendly conveniences.

Users seeking a hands-on, customizable Linux experience will find Slackware to be a compelling option.

Puppy Linux

Puppy Linux represents a well-established Linux distribution option. While earlier iterations were based on Ubuntu, current releases utilize Slackware as their foundation.

The core design principle of Puppy Linux centers around creating a compact and efficient operating system. This allows it to perform effectively even on older hardware configurations.

The ISO file for Puppy Linux is relatively small, measuring 161 MB. It's capable of booting directly from this disc in a live environment, without requiring installation.

Puppy Linux can function on systems with as little as 256 MB of RAM. However, a minimum of 512 MB is suggested for optimal performance.

Reviving Older Hardware

Although Puppy Linux may not showcase the most contemporary features or visually striking elements, it provides a viable solution for extending the lifespan of aging computer hardware.

It offers a practical way to breathe new life into older PCs that might otherwise be considered obsolete.

It's important to note that numerous other Linux distributions are available.

Distrowatch maintains a comprehensive list and attempts to categorize them based on their popularity.

Image Credit: Eduardo Quagliato on Flickr