If you are considering to switch to Linux, you most likely have this important question: Which Linux distro should I choose?
Choosing the right Linux distribution can be a daunting task, given the numerous options available. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the popular Linux distros and help you determine which one suits your needs best. Linux Mint stands out as our favourite due to its fast and modern design, devoid of the sluggishness associated with snap package management. But this is just our preference – it might be different for you. So, let’s dive in and explore the pros and cons of each distro.
Nr 1: Linux Mint
Pros:
- Clean and intuitive user interface
- Low learn curve for users switching from Windows
- No snap: fast software management and updates (apt)
- Good hardware compatibility
- Long release support
- Robust community support
Cons:
- Limited official software repositories
Nr 2: Ubuntu
Pros:
- Strong community support
- Regular updates and security patches
- Extensive software library
- Excellent hardware compatibility
- Easy to use GNOME desktop environment
Cons:
- Snap package management is slow
- Proprietary Ubuntu Store
- Limited desktop customisation options
Nr 3: Kubuntu
Pros:
- Highly customisable KDE desktop environment
- Smooth transition for Windows users
- Vast selection of software
- Works fine on most hardware
- Good online help on forums
Cons:
- Slow snap package management
- Proprietary software store
Nr 4: Pop!_OS
Pros:
- Fairly customisable, despite GNOME
- Suitable for gaming
- Sleek and user-friendly interface
- No snap by default (apt and Flatpack instead)
Cons:
- Smaller community compared to more established distros.
Nr 5: Fedora
Pros:
- Emphasis on cutting-edge software
- Strong commitment to open-source principles
- Active community
- DNF package management is fast
Cons:
- Shorter support lifespan for each release
- Fewer software packages available compared to Ubuntu
- GNOME desktop not very customisable
- Bad battery life
Nr 6: Elementary OS
Pros:
- Beautiful and minimalist design
- User-friendly interface that looks like Mac OS
- Focus on simplicity and elegance
Cons:
- Small App Store
- Can be too minimalist for some users
Nr 7: Zorin OS
Pros:
- Cool design that looks like Windows 7
- Good for beginners
- Well-curated selection of pre-installed software
- A lot of available software from Ubuntu
- Lite version available for older PCs
Cons:
- Uses the slow snap package manager, comes with Flatpak too though
Nr 8: Debian
Pros:
- Exceptional stability and reliability
- High focus on free (libre) software
- Robust security infrastructure
- Using apt without the slow snap package manager
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- Conservative towards new hardware
Nr 9: Arch Linux
Pros:
- Installation of only the necessary components
- Probably the most customisable Linux distro
- Excellent documentation
- A fast package manager: Pacman
Cons:
- For highly experienced users only
- Requires manual configuration
Nr 10: Qubes OS
Pros:
- Very secure OS, mainly due to compartmentalisation
- Highly privacy-oriented
Cons:
- Very steep learning curve
- Requires very specific high performance hardware, which we offer
- Most software will require modifications to run within Qubes OS
Conclusion
The question ‘Which Linux distro should I choose?’ has been answered in this article. Choosing the right Linux distro depends on your specific needs and preferences. Linux Mint, with its excellent performance and modern design, is our top recommendation. However, each distro mentioned offers unique features and advantages. If you want to buy a laptop pre-installed with Linux, check out our Linux laptops.
By providing this comprehensive overview, we hope to assist you in making an informed decision when selecting the Linux distro that best suits your requirements.
Wessel klein Snakenborg (Director of NovaCustom)
About the author: Wessel Klein Snakenborg is passionate about technology since childhood. He launched NovaCustom in 2015, crafting tailor-made laptops with privacy and security in mind. With a focus on user-friendliness, NovaCustom continues to redefine the laptop experience, led by Wessel's commitment to innovation and collaboration.
