Linux distribution, often known as Linux distro, is an open-source operating system that has been built by a large group of developers and programmers. The kernel is the core of the Linux OS. A Linux distribution might include a wide variety of programs, apps, and development tools.
Linux-compatible operating systems are developed by compiling source code from several open-source initiatives. Linux distributions are not limited to desktop computers; they may be installed on servers that lack a graphical user interface, specialized computers, mobile devices, and platforms made specifically for multimedia or embedded systems.
Since Linux is open-source software, anybody may create their own Linux distribution by either compiling the source code from scratch or changing an existing distribution. Do you want Linux installed on your laptop? The best Linux distro 2023 are listed here, so choose one and get in!
In this article
Best Linux Distros 2024 for Beginners
The best Linux distro 2024 for Beginners are as follows:
Zorin OS
Zorin is an Ubuntu-derived Linux system. To make the switch easier, it supports running Windows programs. Zorin OS is virus-proof since it is built on the robust security features of Linux.
The goal of Zorin OS is to improve the performance, security, and privacy of your computer. You can start working immediately since it has all the necessary programs preinstalled. There are “Lite” and “Core” variants available. The core is designed for high-end portable devices and laptops, while Lite is best for older computers with lower specs. Zorin OS is the best Linux distro 2023 focused on simplicity and safety.
Pros
Extremely simple to set up, either on a USB or on a virtual machine using VirtualBox.
Zorin Connect for Smartphone Pairing
Cons
The extra layouts and features in the paid Pro edition do not justify the high price.
The command line tool makes it difficult for newcomers to use and make adjustments.
System Requirements
- CPU: 1 GHz Dual Core – Intel/AMD 64-bit processor
- RAM: 2 GB
- Storage: 10 GB (Core), 24 GB (Education), or 40 GB (Pro)
- Display: 1024 × 768 resolution
Linux Mint
The Linux Mint distribution is quite popular. This shared Linux system includes several open-source and free software applications. The interface is intuitive and user-friendly. Python is used extensively in the development of the Linux Mint operating system and its associated products.
Since Mint and Ubuntu utilize the same repository software, certain packages may be found in both distributions. Ubuntu’s Unity desktop interface is replaced with Cinnamon and Mate. Due to Ubuntu’s lack of support for commercial applications and media codecs, Mint acquired significant user momentum. Linux Mint has the Cinnamon desktop environment, which is quite popular.
Pros
It’s ready to use right out of the box, and it supports all your multimedia needs without any hassle
It’s open source and it’s free
It’s user-generated
It is based on Debian and Ubuntu and offers one of the finest software managers along with around 30,000 packages
Cons
Without a device manager.
Mint is too big and needs a decently competent system to work well, but the company takes a cautious approach to new technology.
Although Mint’s foundation is Ubuntu, the two distributions are distinct enough that not all Ubuntu software is compatible with Mint.
System Requirements
- 4 GB of RAM
- 100 GB of hard drive space
- 64-bit CPU (single core) with 2 GHz speed or better
- 1440 x 900 resolution or higher
Chrome OS
Google created and owns the Chrome OS operating system. It is open-source and uses the Linux operating system, making it available for no cost. Chrome OS’s user-friendliness is a major selling point. Chrome OS looks a lot like Windows while you’re using the desktop, but it’s really just a browser. You can do anything in Chrome that you can do in a browser on competing platforms like Windows or macOS, including watching movies, browsing social networks, and so on.
Most Chrome OS devices that were introduced in 2017 or after have access to the Google Play Store, much like Android phones. This implies that the vast majority of applications available for Android phones may also be found in the Chrome Web Store. It’s important to remember that not all of these applications have been tested specifically on Chrome OS. These may be used on a Chromebook in a mobile-friendly style that utilizes just a small section of the display.
Pros
Chromebooks are more affordable. Chromebooks are a lot more cost-effective than regular laptops.
Chrome OS is very dependable and quick.
Chromebooks last longer between charges than other laptops.
Viruses are less likely to infect a Chromebook.
Cons
Can’t handle demanding software
System Requirements
- Architecture: Intel or AMD x86-64-bit compatible device.
- RAM: 4 GB
- Internal storage: 16 GB.
- Bootable from a USB drive.
Best Linux Distros 2024 for Professionals
The Best Linux Distro 2024 for Professionals are as follows:
Arch Linux
Arch Linux is a server Linux distribution that has been released continuously since 2002 and is geared for AMD64. The KISS concept, created from the start by the project leader at the time Judd Vinet and the team, serves as the basis and highest maxim of the distribution. “KISS” refers to the “Keep it simple, stupid” philosophy behind this distribution.
The lack of graphical installation and configuration assistance in Arch Linux indicates that it is tailored to more advanced programmers. Since 2020, a group headed by Levente Polyak and “trusted users” have been updating and improving Arch Linux as the best Linux distro in 2023, and it has been released under the GNU General Public License.
Pros
Helps you take charge of everything
Cons
The process of installation is a hectic one. Arch Linux is not easy to set up, and it will take some effort to get everything just right.
Unfortunately, Not All Updates Are Safe. Even if updates are continuously being made, you still need to keep track of what’s coming in.
Newer Forms of Distribution.
System Requirements
Your machine needs 512 MB RAM and 1 GB memory. 2 GB RAM and 20 GB storage are ideal for efficiency. The PC should support x86-64. A functional Internet connection and a 2 GB USB disk are also necessary.
Kali Linux
Kali Linux (formerly known as BackTrack Linux) is a distribution of the Debian OS optimized for performing complex penetration testing and security audits, making it an ideal platform for developers working in the field of cybersecurity.
Reverse engineering, digital forensics, penetration testing, and security research are just a few of the many information security tasks that may be performed using its many helpful tools.
Pros
Including more than 600 probes.
follows the standard format for a file system
Several languages are supported.
Adaptable
Cons
Slow
Prevents you from saving files to your hard drive
Has constant hiccups
The emphasis on penetration makes it challenging for newcomers.
System Requirements
- Memory capacity of 2 GB
- 20 GB of storage
- CPU speed of at least 2 GHz (32-bit or 64-bit, single-core)
- A high-resolution display and graphics card
- High-speed, broadband internet access
Fedora
The desktop workstation version, the Internet of Things edition, and the server edition are just a few of the numerous Fedora Spins and Editions available. If you’re looking for a new and the best Linux distro 2024 to test that isn’t based on Debian or Ubuntu, you’ll often hear that Fedora is a good option.
It’s a lot like Red Hat Enterprise Linux and CentOS, two of the most popular server operating systems. Fedora is widely used as both a main OS and a gateway to RHEL and CentOS.
Pros
Hardware compatibility has improved with newer kernel releases.
newest skin for Gnome 3
Incredible Yum Dependency Management
Yum-like automatic Windows updates.
presents a look behind the scenes at Red Hat
Cons
Inability to install even the most essential applications without resorting to third-party repositories like RPM fusion
The ease of use is inferior to that of competing distributions.
Media playback and Flash need manual adjustment to function properly.
F20’s software hub is sluggish and unreliable.
System Requirements
- Dual-core CPU with a minimum of 2 GHz.
- Memory capacity of 2 GB.
- 15 GB of available storage space.
Best Linux Distros 2024 for Gaming
The Best Linux Distro 2024 for Gaming are as follows:
openSUSE
After Novell’s purchase of SuSE Linux AG in 2003, the company created openSUSE. OpenSUSE offers dependable assistance to system administrators and software developers by supporting both the GNOME and KDE desktop environments. It is among the best Linux distro 2024.
Pros
The look of the user’s server or desktop is up to the user.
A staggering quantity of code is made public with each new version.
Independence for system administrators who aren’t interested in sticking to the release schedule
Upstream updates are simple to get.
There are several “add-ons” available for Online-Build-Service that cater to certain niches.
Modifications may be easily distributed, and not a lot of bandwidth is required.
Use SUSE’s OBS to build for any hardware and distribution.
Cons
Nowadays there is not a lot of paperwork
Extreme EU and non-GPL restrictions are followed by certain persons.
Moderately sluggish on antiquated hardware
System Requirements
- Recommendations: Pentium 4 at 2.4 GHz or above, or any AMD64 or Intel64 CPU
- Recommendation for primary memory: 2 GB
- The recommended minimum hard drive size is 40GB.
Manjaro
Manjaro is a simplified distribution of Arch Linux. Very little work is required to set it up and use it. By default, Manjaro’s Pamac and Octopi are installed, enabling graphical program installation. Our opinion on the best Linux distro 2024? Due to its extensive suite of modifiable development tools, Manjaro is the ideal Linux distribution. There are also claims that it is the finest Linux distribution for intermediate programmers.
Manjaro’s rapid hardware detection makes installing proprietary drivers a breeze. Everyone from power users to coders searching for a streamlined development environment will find what they need in Manjaro.
Pros
One of the oldest and most well-regarded Linux distributions, Arch Linux serves as the foundation.
One-stop setup with automatic upgrades
Optimus technology from Nvidia-compatible.
Included Steam Downloader
The kernels may be managed using a graphical user interface.
Additional pre-compiled package repositories
Cons
Not an OS designed for servers
In contrast to Kali and Red Hat Enterprise Linux
System Requirements
- 2 GB of RAM and 30 GB of storage space
- Processor speed of at least 2 GHz
- A high-definition display and monitor
- A dependable link to the web
ArchStrike
It comes with an installer DVD that has utilities like pacstrap, genfstab, and arch-chroot on it to help in the process of installing the system.
Pacstrap will add a fundamental system hierarchy to the mount point that was supplied as well as the packages that were installed. Genfstab will generate a fstab based on the volumes that are presently mounted under the root mount that you choose. This will allow you to continue setting the new system without having to worry about mounting proc, dev, and other volumes.
Pros
The most recent, reliable software is always available with rolling releases.
Incredibly stable and simple to repair.
Detailed how-to’s for each program that covers everything from getting started to fixing common issues
Straightforward setup, free of baffling magicians that might break the system
User-maintained repository for third-party software packages
Cons
Protracted set-up procedure
There are no extras included, however, the manual makes reference to software.
System Requirements
- You need at least 20GB of free space on your hard disk and 1GB of RAM.
- Access to the World Wide Web
- A blank DVD with the appropriate burning software and hardware
- A USB device with at least 2GB of empty space is another option.
Why Choose the best Linux distro 2024?
Cost Might Force People to Stick With Their Older Machines and Install Linux: Supply chain problems in the computer hardware business exacerbated the difficulty of acquiring chips for new computers during the duration of the epidemic. Coincident with the surge in popularity of cryptocurrencies, there was a surge in the demand for laptop computers used for remote work.
Even if supply chain worries subside after 2022 (thanks to, for example, loosening pandemic restrictions and the fall of cryptocurrencies), the economy may still force individuals to make do with less powerful computers by installing lightweight and best Linux distro 2024.
Steam Deck Boosts Linux Gaming: Valve’s attempts to improve Linux’s gaming support may finally turn the tide. The Steam Deck, a portable console for playing PC games on Linux, has been released by the business. It’s a huge undertaking, and it’s gotten gamers quite excited.
Valve has a vested interest in hardware sales, but the company’s initiatives may ultimately benefit Linux gaming as a whole. The company’s goal is to make Windows games playable on Linux on personal computers. That’s why they’re working on the Proton library—so Windows games may be played without a hitch.
Linux Gaming Keeps Growing: Although Linux PC gaming is still a niche market, there has been an uptick in recent years. The percentage of Steam’s user base using Linux-based gaming PCs has been increasing gradually over the last several years.
It’s possible that this is at least in part due to the popularity of the Steam Deck. According to Valve’s hardware and software assessment of its customers, Linux gaming seems to be developing organically, although slowly.
Linux Desktops Keep Improving: Linux may be the final bastion of the command line, but it’s become a viable alternative to Windows and macOS thanks to the proliferation of Linux desktops.
Zorin OS is a distribution that is aimed squarely at the Windows and macOS user bases by offering interfaces that are almost identical. Other distributions are attempting to make their systems friendlier to users who aren’t tech-savvy by doing things like replacing the text terminal with a splash screen upon bootup and downplaying the importance of the command line.
Overview of Linux Distros
When releasing updates, Microsoft and other operating systems bundle all of the code together. You are limited to picking from the available options. Linux, however, is unique in comparison. Various groups work on various aspects of Linux.
The kernel, shell utilities, X server, environment, graphical applications, etc. are all separate components. You have full access to the schematics and can put this together yourself if you so choose. However, it is not a quick process, and it requires careful assembly of all the necessary components. From now on, the role of distribution (or “distros”) enters the picture. In the end, they handed us a compiled version of the best Linux distro 2024 as an operating system.
Conclusion
To sum up, the ideal and best Linux distro 2024 for programming depends on your specific projects and skill level.
Our top picks were Arch Linux, Debian, Kali Linux, and Fedora. After all, they’re among the most widely used systems for software development. Some distributions are easier to use than others, while others are not suitable for novices. The specifics of each were explained by our best Linux distro 2024 tour guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Distribution of Linux Is Ideal for Software Development?
Beginner programmers should use Ubuntu, whereas advanced programmers should use Debian, Kali Linux, or Fedora.
Which Linux Distribution Is Ideal for Python Development?
When it comes to Python development, any Linux distribution will do. If you are a beginner coder, though, Ubuntu is a good option.
Which Linux Distribution Is Ideal for Newbies?
Ubuntu is the greatest Linux distribution for non-technical users because of its user-friendly interface.
For C++, Which Linux Is the best Linux distro 2024?
When it comes to C++ development, any Linux distribution will do. For newcomers to the programming world, Ubuntu is the finest option.
What is the fastest Linux distribution?
As the quickest Linux distribution, Puppy OS takes the cake.
