8 Linux Desktop Distributions to Try
The New Stack has long covered the ever-evolving landscape of Linux. Through it all, a few distributions have stood out, either through their innovation, their rock-solid stability, or simply their ability to make the open-source desktop a joy to use.
This isn’t a definitive “best of” list — the beauty of Linux lies in its diversity, and the ideal distro is a deeply personal choice. But here are eight that have been recommended in TNS. Each pushes the boundaries or simply gets the job done with exceptional polish.
1. Rhino Linux: The Modern Marvel
Rhino Linux is a relatively new distribution, but it has quickly become one of the most exciting in recent years. What sets Rhino apart is its intelligent approach to package management, blending the stability of Ubuntu with a rolling-release model.
The desktop environment is thoughtfully curated, offering a modern and intuitive experience that feels both familiar and fresh.
Whether you’re a seasoned Linux user looking for the latest and greatest or a newcomer wanting a sleek and powerful platform for development, Rhino Linux deserves a serious look. It’s genuinely innovative, and we’re excited to see where it goes.
The default Rhino Linux desktop.
2. Pop!_OS: The Creative Powerhouse
System76 has consistently impressed us with its hardware, and Pop!_OS is a testament to its understanding of the Linux desktop. This distribution isn’t just an afterthought; it’s clearly designed to work seamlessly with their machines, but it shines on other hardware too.
Pop!_OS stands out with its excellent support for NVIDIA graphics cards, making it a fantastic choice for gamers and content creators. The tiling window manager (Pop Shell) is a game-changer for productivity, allowing you to efficiently manage your workspace without constantly reaching for the mouse. It strikes a perfect balance between power and ease of use, and after spending even a few days with it, you might find yourself wondering why you ever used anything else. It’s simply that good.
The default COSMIC desktop should look immediately familiar.
3. Zorin OS: The Bridge to Linux
For anyone looking to escape the clutches of Windows or macOS without a steep learning curve, Zorin OS is often the first distribution we recommend. The developers have done an exceptional job of creating a user experience that feels immediately familiar to those coming from proprietary operating systems. You can even choose an interface layout that mimics Windows or macOS, easing the transition.
But Zorin OS is more than just a pretty face; it’s a stable and well-supported distribution with a focus on usability. It comes with a good selection of pre-installed software, making the installation of additional applications straightforward. If you’re tired of the limitations and frustrations of other operating systems and want a smooth entry into the world of Linux, Zorin OS is your gateway.
Zorin
4. Nitrux: The Independent Thinker
Nitrux is one of those distributions that often flies under the radar, which is a real shame because it brings some truly unique ideas to the table. Based on Debian but with a distinctly modern twist, Nitrux promotes the use of AppImages for application deployment, resulting in clean, self-contained installation and management.
The NX Desktop, built on KDE Plasma, offers a highly customizable and visually appealing experience. Security is also a priority, with features like SE Linux and an immutable root filesystem providing an extra layer of protection. Nitrux isn’t afraid to be different, and its commitment to modern application management and security makes it a compelling choice for those looking for something a bit outside the mainstream.
Nitrux
5. Nobara: The Gamer’s Delight (and More)
Nobara is an interesting project born from the Fedora community, specifically aimed at making Fedora more user-friendly and especially appealing to gamers. It addresses many of the “out-of-the-box” needs of gamers, including pre-installed proprietary drivers and popular gaming-related software.
However, Nobara’s appeal extends beyond just gaming. By offering different spins with various desktop environments (including customized versions of KDE Plasma and GNOME, as well as Steam-focused versions), Nobara aims to cater to a broader audience while retaining the stability and robustness of Fedora. It’s a testament to the fact that a distribution can be both powerful and user-friendly, and its focus on inclusivity for all types of users is commendable.
The Nobara default desktop.
6. Elementary OS: The Elegant Minimalist
Elementary OS has always stood out for its beautiful and consistent user interface, heavily inspired by macOS. It’s designed to be simple, elegant, and distraction-free. While some might find its opinionated approach to software selection and customization limiting, others will appreciate its focus on providing a polished and cohesive experience right out of the box.
If aesthetics and ease of use are your top priorities, and you prefer a curated selection of applications, elementary OS is definitely worth considering.
The default elementary OS 8 desktop.
7. Manjaro: The Arch Advantage, Made Easy
For those intrigued by the power and flexibility of Arch Linux but intimidated by its installation process and maintenance, Manjaro provides an excellent compromise. It’s based on Arch but offers a more user-friendly installer, pre-configured desktop environments, and its own set of repositories for more stable updates.
You still get access to the vast Arch User Repository (AUR), giving you access to an incredible amount of software. Manjaro offers a rolling-release model, keeping your system up-to-date without requiring major upgrades.
Manjaro desktop
8. Ubuntu Desktop: The Ubiquitous Foundation
No list of significant Linux distributions would be complete without Ubuntu. It’s the foundation upon which many other distributions are built, and its massive community and extensive software support make it a reliable choice for a wide range of users.
While it has evolved over the years (sometimes controversially), Ubuntu continues to be a major player in the Linux world, offering a solid and well-supported desktop experience.
The Journey Continues
The world of Linux is constantly evolving, with new distributions emerging and existing ones refining their approach. These eight are just a snapshot of the incredible diversity available. The “best” distribution is ultimately the one that best fits your individual needs and preferences.
So, we encourage you to explore, download a few live images, and embark on your own Linux journey. You might just be surprised at what you discover.
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