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LINUX DISTROS

Desktop distros

Your desk, your distro.

Desktop distros are full Linux operating systems designed for everyday use on personal computers. They focus on usability, stability, and a complete desktop experience.

Dependent on parent
Arch Linux

AerynOS

Suitable for beginners

AerynOS
  Description  

AerynOS is a niche Linux distribution aimed at providing a streamlined and modern desktop experience. Though less known, it emphasizes simplicity and a clean interface while leveraging the flexibility of Linux for everyday use.

  Environments  

Cosmic

Cosmic

GNOME

GNOME

Plasma

Plasma

  Default package formats  
Pacman

Pacman

Flatpak

Flatpak

Dependent on parent
RHEL

AlmaLinux

For the proficient Linux user

AlmaLinux
  Description  

AlmaLinux is a free, community-driven enterprise Linux distribution designed as a 1:1 binary-compatible replacement for Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). It offers long-term stability and security for servers and workstations alike.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

  Default package formats  
rpm

.rpm

No parent

Alpine Linux

For the proficient Linux user

Alpine Linux
  Description  

Alpine Linux is a lightweight, security-oriented distribution built around musl and BusyBox. It is popular for servers, containers, and embedded systems, offering simplicity, speed, and a minimal attack surface.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  
apk

.apk

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

AnduinOS

Suitable for beginners

AnduinOS
  Description  

AnduinOS is a Ubuntu-based distribution inspired by fantasy themes, combining a familiar and easy-to-use desktop with community-driven ideas. It caters to enthusiasts who enjoy a pleasant, creative Linux setup while keeping full user control.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

  Default package formats  
deb

.deb

Flatpak

Flatpak

Dependent on parent
Arch Linux

Antergos

Discontinued

Antergos
  Description  

Antergos was a user-friendly distribution based on Arch Linux featuring the Cnchi graphical installer to simplify setup and allow selection of desktop environments. It followed Arch's rolling release with access to official AUR repositories.

  Environments  
Deepin Desktop

Deepin

XFce

XFce

Cinnamon

Cinnamon

GNOME

GNOME

Plasma

Plasma

MATE

MATE

  Default package formats  
Pacman

Pacman

Dependent on parent
Artix Linux

Antergos NeXT

For the proficient Linux user

Antergos NeXT
  Description  

Antergos NeXT is an independent revival of the Antergos concept based on Artix Linux with Dinit (default). The project briefly used the Pulsar Linux name before reverting to Antergos NeXT with the blessing from an original Antergos founder.

  Environments  

Plasma

Plasma

  Default package formats  
Pacman

Pacman

Dependent on parent
Debian

AntiX

For the proficient Linux user

AntiX
  Description  

AntiX is a fast, lightweight Linux distribution based on Debian, designed to breathe new life into older hardware. It avoids systemd, runs efficiently on minimal resources, and provides a lean, customizable desktop experience through lightweight window managers.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  
deb

.deb

No parent

Arch Linux

For the proficient Linux user

Arch Linux
  Description  

Arch Linux – A minimalist and flexible distribution that follows a rolling release model. It gives users the latest software, complete control over their system, and a deeper understanding of Linux, but requires more setup than beginner-focused distros.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  
Pacman

Pacman

Dependent on parent
Arch Linux

Artix Linux

For the proficient Linux user

Artix Linux
  Description  

Artix Linux is an Arch-based rolling release designed for those who prefer a system without systemd. It supports lightweight init systems such as OpenRC, runit, and s6, giving users full control and flexibility in their Linux environment.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  
Pacman

Pacman

Dependent on parent
Arch Linux

BlackArch Linux

For the proficient Linux user

BlackArch Linux
  Description  

BlackArch is a penetration testing and security research distribution based on Arch Linux. It provides over 2,800 security tools, categorized for easy use, and is suitable for professionals who need a rolling-release, lightweight pentesting platform.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  
Pacman

Pacman

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Bodhi Linux

For the proficient Linux user

Bodhi Linux
  Description  

Bodhi Linux is an Ubuntu-based lightweight distribution that uses the Moksha Desktop, a fork of Enlightenment. It emphasizes speed and minimalism, letting users build their own system while staying resource-efficient and visually distinctive.

  Environments  

Moksha

Moksha

  Default package formats  
deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Arch Linux

CachyOS

For the proficient Linux user

CachyOS
  Description  

CachyOS is an Arch-based distribution optimized for performance and security. It offers custom kernels, easy setup for gaming and desktop use, and advanced options preconfigured for speed, appealing to power users and gamers alike.

  Environments  
LXDE

LXDE

Cosmic

Cosmic

GNOME

GNOME

Plasma

Plasma

Cinnamon

Cinnamon

MATE

MATE

LXQt

LXQt

  Default package formats  
Pacman

Pacman

Dependent on parent
Gentoo

Calculate Linux

For the proficient Linux user

Calculate Linux
  Description  

Calculate Linux is a Gentoo-based distribution designed for desktop, server, and cluster deployments. It offers preconfigured environments, rolling updates, and system administration tools while maintaining Gentoo’s source-based flexibility.

  Environments  

XFce

XFce

Plasma

Plasma

MATE

MATE

  Default package formats  
ebuild

.ebuild

Dependent on parent
RHEL

CentOS

Discontinued

CentOS
  Description  

CentOS was a free, community-driven rebuild of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), offering stability, security, and long-term support. It was widely used on servers until its discontinuation in 2021 in favor of CentOS Stream.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

  Default package formats  
rpm

.rpm

No parent

Debian

For the proficient Linux user

Debian
  Description  

Debian is the parent of many well-known Linux distributions and is admired for its rock-solid stability and reliability. It includes one of the largest software repositories available, is easy to maintain, and serves as a strong foundation for learning Linux.

  Environments  

LXQt

LXQt

Plasma

Plasma

GNOME

GNOME

LXDE

LXDE

XFce

XFce

  Default package formats  
deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Debian

Deepin

Suitable for beginners

Deepin
  Description  

Deepin is a Debian-based distribution featuring the Deepin Desktop Environment (DDE), which is visually striking and user-friendly. It provides an intuitive interface, polished apps, and the Deepin App Center for easy software discovery and installation.

  Environments  

Deepin Desktop

Deepin

  Default package formats  
deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Edubuntu

Suitable for beginners

Edubuntu
  Description  

Edubuntu is an official Ubuntu flavor tailored for education, providing teachers and students with a ready-to-use system that includes classroom management tools, educational apps, and a stable environment built on Ubuntu.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

  Default package formats  
Snap

Snap

deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Elementary OS

Suitable for beginners

Elementary OS
  Description  

Elementary OS is an Ubuntu-based distribution known for its elegant and minimalist design. It uses the Pantheon desktop, created to resemble macOS, and emphasizes simplicity, speed, and a curated app experience through the App Center.

  Environments  

Pantheon

Pantheon

  Default package formats  
Flatpak

Flatpak

deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Arch Linux

Endeavour OS

Suitable for beginners

Endeavour OS
  Description  

Endeavour OS is a user-friendly, rolling-release distribution based on Arch Linux. It provides a minimal base system with easy installation, access to the Arch repositories, and a welcoming community, making Arch more approachable for newcomers.

  Environments  
Budgie

Budgie

MATE

MATE

Plasma

Plasma

XFce

XFce

GNOME

GNOME

Cinnamon

Cinnamon

LXQt

LXQt

  Default package formats  
Pacman

Pacman

Extinct parent
Red Hat Linux

Fedora

Suitable for beginners

Fedora
  Description  

Fedora is a cutting-edge Linux distribution that showcases the latest open-source technologies while staying stable and reliable. It integrates Flatpak for easy app installation, and is a great choice for users who enjoy having up-to-date software.

  Environments  

Plasma

Plasma

GNOME

GNOME

  Default package formats  
Flatpak

Flatpak

rpm

.rpm

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

First Boot Linux

Retailer pre-install

First Boot Linux
  Description  

First Boot Linux is a disposable first-run environment that PC retailers and refurbishers pre-install instead of locking a machine to one operating system. First Boot installs the buyer's selected distro and replaces itself. The buyer has an out-of-the-box choice.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  

No parent

GNOME OS

For the proficient Linux user

GNOME OS
  Description  

GNOME OS is a Linux distribution created to test and develop the GNOME desktop. It provides a clean environment for developers to experiment with features, apps, and system changes, ensuring stability before release to wider audiences.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

  Default package formats  
OSTree

OSTree

Flatpak

Flatpak

Dependent on parent
Arch Linux

Garuda Linux

Suitable for beginners

Garuda Linux
  Description  

Garuda Linux is an Arch-based distribution built with a focus on performance, gaming, and eye-catching design. It features Btrfs snapshots for system recovery, a polished installer, and multiple desktop editions, including its flagship KDE Dr460nized spin.

  Environments  

XFce

XFce

GNOME

GNOME

Plasma

Plasma

Cinnamon

Cinnamon

  Default package formats  
Pacman

Pacman

No parent

Gentoo Linux

For the proficient Linux user

Gentoo Linux
  Description  

Gentoo is a source-based Linux distribution built for customization and optimization. With its Portage package manager, users compile software to suit their hardware and needs, making it powerful but requiring expertise and patience.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  
ebuild

.ebuild

Dependent on parent
Arch Linux

GreenBang

For the proficient Linux user

GreenBang
  Description  

GreenBang (previously ArchBang) is a lightweight distribution based on Arch Linux. It provides a minimal, fast, and ready-to-use Arch experience, suitable for users who want simplicity, speed, and rolling updates without a full manual install.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  
Pacman

Pacman

Dependent on parent
Debian

Kali Linux

For the proficient Linux user

Kali Linux
  Description  

Kali Linux is a Debian-based distribution tailored for security testing and digital forensics. Preloaded with hundreds of professional tools, it empowers ethical hackers and researchers to audit systems, networks, and applications.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

XFce

XFce

Plasma

Plasma

  Default package formats  
deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Kubuntu

Suitable for beginners

Kubuntu
  Description  

Kubuntu blends Ubuntu’s reliable base with the KDE Plasma desktop, providing a customizable and modern environment. With an appearance similar to Windows, it is popular for its performance, flexibility, and powerful tools.

  Environments  

Plasma

Plasma

  Default package formats  
Snap

Snap

deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Linux Mint

Suitable for beginners

Linux Mint
  Description  

Linux Mint is built with simplicity and comfort in mind, making it ideal for those switching from Windows. It features a familiar desktop layout, comes with essential software pre-installed, and includes a clean Software Manager for installing apps.

  Environments  

MATE

MATE

Cinnamon

Cinnamon

XFce

XFce

  Default package formats  
Flatpak

Flatpak

deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Lubuntu

Suitable for beginners

Lubuntu
  Description  

Lubuntu delivers the Ubuntu core with LXQt, a lightweight and efficient desktop environment. Designed for low-resource systems, it emphasizes simplicity and speed while remaining functional and easy to navigate.

  Environments  

LXQt

LXQt

  Default package formats  
Snap

Snap

deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Debian

MX Linux

Suitable for beginners

MX Linux
  Description  

MX Linux is a midweight, Debian-based distribution combining simplicity, stability, and performance. It features a customized XFCE desktop, helpful utilities, and strong community support, making it ideal for both new and experienced users.

  Environments  

XFce

XFce

  Default package formats  
Flatpak

Flatpak

deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Arch Linux

Manjaro

Suitable for beginners

Manjaro
  Description  

Manjaro – A user-friendly Arch-based distribution that combines cutting-edge software with stability. It offers a polished desktop experience, an easy installer, and access to the Arch User Repository (AUR), making it powerful yet approachable for newcomers.

  Environments  

Plasma

Plasma

GNOME

GNOME

XFce

XFce

  Default package formats  
Pacman

Pacman

No parent

NixOS

For the proficient Linux user

NixOS
  Description  

NixOS is a declarative, reproducible Linux distribution built around the Nix package manager. Its configuration model ensures system consistency, rollback capability, and a unique approach to package management.

  Environments  

Plasma

Plasma

  Default package formats  
nix

.nix

Dependent on parent
Fedora

Nobara Linux

Suitable for beginners

Nobara Linux
  Description  

Nobara Linux is a Fedora-based distribution aimed at gamers, streamers, and content creators. It comes preconfigured with drivers, codecs, and patches that simplify gaming, multimedia editing, and streaming on Linux, reducing the need for manual setup.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

  Default package formats  
rpm

.rpm

Dependent on parent
Arch Linux

Nyarch Linux

For the proficient Linux user

Nyarch Linux
  Description  

Nyarch Linux is a themed spin of Arch Linux, blending the rolling release power of Arch with anime-inspired customizations. It targets enthusiasts who want both performance and a personalized aesthetic, while retaining Arch’s flexibility.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  
Flatpak

Flatpak

Pacman

Pacman

Dependent on parent
Arch Linux

Omarchy

For the proficient Linux user

Omarchy
  Description  

Omarchy is a minimal, rolling-release Linux distribution focused on simplicity, customization, and speed. It gives advanced users full control over their environment, with minimal preinstalled software and a flexible setup process.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  
rpm

.rpm

Dependent on parent
Debian

Parrot OS

For the proficient Linux user

Parrot OS
  Description  

Parrot OS is a Debian-based distribution built for security, privacy, and development. It includes penetration testing, forensics, reverse engineering, and cryptography tools, while also offering a lightweight home edition.

  Environments  

MATE

MATE

  Default package formats  
deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Debian

Peppermint OS

For the proficient Linux user

Peppermint OS
  Description  

Peppermint OS is a lightweight, cloud-focused Linux distribution based on Debian/Ubuntu. It blends traditional desktop tools with web apps, offering a fast, user-friendly environment that’s ideal for older computers or users who rely on web services.

  Environments  

XFce

XFce

LXDE

LXDE

  Default package formats  
deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Pop!_OS

Suitable for beginners

Pop!_OS
  Description  

Pop!_OS, developed by System76, is an Ubuntu-based distribution designed for productivity, creativity, and gaming. It features auto-tiling, easy driver support, and a clean interface, making it a popular choice for Linux newcomers and pros.

  Environments  

Cosmic

Cosmic

  Default package formats  
deb

.deb

Flatpak

Flatpak

No parent

Puppy Linux

For the proficient Linux user

Puppy Linux
  Description  

Puppy Linux is a lightweight distribution designed for speed and simplicity. It runs well on older hardware, loads fully into RAM, and offers a small yet complete set of tools, making it ideal for portability and quick tasks.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  
PET

.pet

Dependent on parent
Debian

Q4OS

Suitable for beginners

Q4OS
  Description  

Q4OS is a Debian-based distribution that emphasizes speed and a classic desktop experience. Using the Trinity Desktop Environment (a continuation of KDE 3), it provides a familiar, efficient workflow for users who prefer traditional interfaces and low resource usage.

  Environments  

Plasma

Plasma

Trinity

Trinity

  Default package formats  
deb

.deb

Extinct parent
Red Hat Linux

RHEL

For the proficient Linux user

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)
  Description  

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is a commercial distribution designed for stability, security, and long-term support. Backed by Red Hat, it powers businesses and servers worldwide, offering enterprise-grade tools, certification, and support.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

  Default package formats  
Flatpak

Flatpak

rpm

.rpm

No parent

Red Hat Linux

Discontinued

Red Hat Linux
  Description  

Red Hat Linux, launched in 1994, was among the first major distributions to reach mainstream adoption. It introduced the RPM package format (.rpm) and laid the groundwork for Fedora, CentOS Stream, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

  Default package formats  
rpm

.rpm

Dependent on parent
RHEL

Rocky Linux

For the proficient Linux user

Rocky Linux
  Description  

Rocky Linux is a community-driven enterprise distribution built to continue the legacy of CentOS. It is a downstream rebuild of Red Hat Enterprise Linux, offering long-term stability, performance, and enterprise-grade security.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

  Default package formats  
rpm

.rpm

No parent

SUSE Linux

Discontinued

SUSE Linux
  Description  

SUSE Linux was one of the first commercial Linux distributions, originating in Germany in the 1990s. It combined open source flexibility with professional support, setting the stage for modern enterprise Linux systems.

  Environments  

Plasma

Plasma

  Default package formats  
rpm

.rpm

YaST

YaST

Extinct parent
SUSE Linux

SUSE Linux Enterprise

For the proficient Linux user

SUSE Linux Enterprise (SLE)
  Description  

SUSE Linux Enterprise is a commercial distribution designed for businesses and mission-critical environments. Built on reliability, security and long-term support, it is widely used in enterprise servers, cloud and embedded systems.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

  Default package formats  
rpm

.rpm

YaST

YaST

Dependent on parent
Gentoo

Sabayon Linux

Discontinued

Sabayon Linux
  Description  

Sabayon Linux was a Gentoo-based distribution designed to offer an easier out-of-the-box experience. It provided a preconfigured system with binary packages while retaining Gentoo’s flexibility, but the project has since been discontinued.

  Environments  

Plasma

Plasma

GNOME

GNOME

XFce

XFce

  Default package formats  
ebuild

.ebuild

No parent

Slackware

For the proficient Linux user

Slackware
  Description  

Slackware is one of the oldest actively maintained Linux distributions, focused on simplicity, stability, and a traditional Unix-like design. It avoids heavy modifications, providing a pure and highly configurable Linux system.

  Environments  

XFce

XFce

Plasma

Plasma

  Default package formats  
tgz

.tgz

No parent

SliTaz GNU/Linux

For the proficient Linux user

SliTaz GNU/Linux
  Description  

SliTaz is an ultra-lightweight Linux distribution made for minimal hardware. It boots entirely into RAM, delivering speed and efficiency even on older machines, and uses its own tiny package system called Tazpkg for managing software.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  
tazpkg

.tazpkg

Dependent on parent
Debian

Tails

For the proficient Linux user

Tails
  Description  

Tails, The Amnesic Incognito Live System, is a Debian-based distro focused on privacy and anonymity. It routes all traffic through Tor, runs as a live system, and is designed to leave no traces on the computer once shut down.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

  Default package formats  
deb

.deb

No parent

Tiny Core Linux

For the proficient Linux user

Tiny Core Linux
  Description  

Tiny Core Linux is an extremely lightweight distribution that focuses on minimalism and modularity. It comes in editions as small as 11 MB, booting quickly and letting users add only the components they need, making it ideal for older hardware or embedded use.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  
tcz

.tcz

Dependent on parent
Debian

Ubuntu

Suitable for beginners

Ubuntu
  Description  

Ubuntu (Ubuntu GNOME) is the flagship edition of Ubuntu, designed to be user-friendly, accessible, and reliable. Built on Debian, it combines stability with ease of use, offering long-term support releases, a modern GNOME desktop, and vast app availability.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

  Default package formats  
Snap

Snap

deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Ubuntu Budgie

Suitable for beginners

Ubuntu Budgie
  Description  

Ubuntu Budgie integrates Ubuntu with the sleek Budgie desktop environment, designed for elegance and efficiency. It provides a clean, modern look with smooth workflow features, striking a balance between performance and style.

  Environments  

Budgie

Budgie

  Default package formats  
Snap

Snap

deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Ubuntu Cinnamon

Suitable for beginners

Ubuntu Cinnamon
  Description  

Ubuntu Cinnamon blends Ubuntu’s reliability with the Cinnamon desktop, offering a traditional Windows-like layout with modern touches. It aims for familiarity, simplicity, and ease of use while retaining access to Ubuntu’s large software ecosystem.

  Environments  

Cinnamon

Cinnamon

  Default package formats  
Snap

Snap

deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Ubuntu MATE

Suitable for beginners

Ubuntu MATE
  Description  

Ubuntu MATE combines the stability of Ubuntu with the traditional MATE desktop. It offers a familiar interface reminiscent of earlier GNOME versions, balancing efficiency and low resource use with modern desktop features.

  Environments  

MATE

MATE

  Default package formats  
Snap

Snap

deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Ubuntu Studio

Suitable for beginners

Ubuntu Studio
  Description  

Ubuntu Studio is tailored for creative professionals, featuring an extensive suite of open-source tools for audio, video, graphics, and publishing. It brings production-ready software preinstalled on a reliable Ubuntu base.

  Environments  

Plasma

Plasma

  Default package formats  
Snap

Snap

deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Ubuntu Unity

Suitable for beginners

Ubuntu Unity
  Description  

Ubuntu Unity revives Canonical’s Unity desktop, known for its left-side dock, HUD search, and clean design. It combines Ubuntu’s stability with a unique workflow designed for efficiency, appealing to users who prefer Unity’s distinctive interface.

  Environments  

Unity

Unity

  Default package formats  
Snap

Snap

deb

.deb

No parent

Void Linux

For the proficient Linux user

Void Linux
  Description  

Void Linux is an independent, general-purpose distribution focused on simplicity, speed, and minimalism. It uses the runit init system, offers a rolling release model, and allows users to build a highly customized system from the ground up.

  Environments  

  Default package formats  
xbps

.xbps

Dependent on parent
Debian

Whonix

For the proficient Linux user

Whonix
  Description  

Whonix is a Debian-based distribution focused on anonymity and security. It routes all traffic through the Tor network by default, using a dual-VM architecture (Gateway and Workstation) to isolate networking. It’s designed for privacy-conscious users.

  Environments  

Plasma

Plasma

  Default package formats  
deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Xubuntu

Suitable for beginners

Xubuntu
  Description  

Xubuntu uses XFce on top of the Ubuntu base, offering a lightweight and fast desktop that remains user-friendly. It is an excellent choice for older or less powerful machines, while still delivering a clean, modern interface.

  Environments  

XFce

XFce

  Default package formats  
Snap

Snap

deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
Ubuntu

Zorin OS

Suitable for beginners

Zorin OS
  Description  

Zorin OS is a user-friendly, Ubuntu-based Linux distribution designed to ease the transition from Windows or macOS. It features a polished desktop, preinstalled apps, and a familiar interface that minimizes the learning curve for new users.

  Environments  

Zorin Desktop

Zorin

  Default package formats  
Flatpak

Flatpak

deb

.deb

Dependent on parent
SUSE Linux Enterprise

openSUSE

Suitable for beginners

openSUSE
  Description  

openSUSE is a versatile Linux project offering two main editions: Leap, a stable release built on SUSE Linux Enterprise for reliability, and Tumbleweed, a rolling release with the latest software. Both provide YaST tools, KDE by default, and RPM packages.

  Environments  

GNOME

GNOME

Plasma

Plasma

  Default package formats  
rpm

.rpm

YaST

YaST

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