best Linux distributions

There are hundreds of Linux distributions. For those just getting started with this environment, it’s hard to know which one to choose. The most popular is for good reason. We have selected for you 6 of the best Linux distributions to start with.

Linux is free, Open Source, and reputed to be more stable than Windows, like macOS, both from the Unix kernel. It is seen as a system for a handful of illuminated geeks. Neophytes are more confused knowing that there is a myriad of Linux distributions or even distributions derived from other distributions. It is not to make things simpler.

GNU / Linux has many advantages, it is the great and best OS for programmers & developers, system and network administrators, etc. In short, computer nerds feel like they are in their backwater. Anyone can however switch to Linux by installing it for example in a virtual machine or by getting a Linux laptop. Whether out of curiosity or to get used to a free, free environment that changes proprietary and closed OSes. Have you decided to take the plunge, but don’t know what to choose?

Here are the 6 best Linux distributions in 2021.

1. Ubuntu

Ubuntu

Created in 2004, Ubuntu has only taken a few years to become one of the most popular, if not the most popular, Linux distribution. It is a modern desktop operating system designed for the masses and supposed to be just as easy to use as Windows or macOS. Its slogan was also chosen accordingly:  “Linux for human beings” to translate by “Linux for human beings”. Everything is in this sentence.

Another advantage of Ubuntu is that it benefits from frequent updates: at least once every six months or so. The community around the OS is large, which is always a plus since we can easily find assistance on the web in case of problems but also to take advantage of one of the most complete software repositories.

2. Linux Mint

Linux Mint

Linux Mint is another great Linux distribution for new users. It provides an intuitive and easy-to-adapt interface and contains much pre-installed software to start without being confused when coming from Windows or a Mac. LibreOffice allows you to take advantage of office tasks by default. Mint also better supports most proprietary media formats, so you can play videos, DVDs, and MP3 music files without any hassle.

You can download four main startup flavours for Linux Mint. Each corresponds to a different office environment. The top layer of the interface allows you to change things like the appearance of windows and menus.

3. Manjaro Linux

Manjaro

Manjaro is based on the Linux Arch distribution, which is very popular with advanced users. Arch is a scalable and innovative distribution appreciated by many expert users. Unfortunately, it is a little less easy for new users to handle unless they resolve to document themselves before starting.

Manjaro bridges the gap by offering an easier installation method for those who want to take advantage of the powerful Arch base. Manjaro has its own set of software repositories. This Linux distribution is quite light and can run on ageing computers as well as on recent models.

4. Debian

Debian

Debian is one of the oldest Linux distributions. It is from it that are also derived Ubuntu and Linux Mint, among many others. Unlike many Linux distributions, Debian is not managed by a company, but by independent and volunteer developers located around the world. One of the reasons for its popularity.

But Debian is not the easiest you could get started with if you are not used to GNU / Linux environments. Its installation is a bit more complicated and there are different steps to follow after installation for all the equipment to work.

5. Fedora

Fedora

Fedora is a community distribution based on Red Hat. Designed to be on the cutting edge of technology, Fedora is constantly updated and was one of the first distributions to introduce the Wayland and SystemD libraries. The default desktop environment for this Linux distribution is Gnome. However, if you prefer an alternative, you can download a variant (Spin) which allows you to take advantage of a personalized graphical environment with a set of applications intended for a specific need.

6. OpenSUSE

OpenSUSE

OpenSUSE is a good alternative to Ubuntu and other Linux distributions derived from Debian. The system also shares quite a few similarities with the latter. Installation can be a bit difficult for new users, but the documentation helps. Once implemented, OpenSUSE provides a stable environment for users, with a solid set of applications. The OS also has a good level of support.

So much for our selection of some of the most popular Linux distributions. There are of course many others. If you use one. Do not hesitate to share it in the comments and why you chose it!