TechnologyDid You Know ?Top 15 Most Popular Linux Distributions Of 2019
As the year 2019 comes to an end, it’s time to find out which Linux distributions are most popular. We all know that if there are operating systems that are considered safe then Linux is one of them. Hence, today we have created a list in which we mentioned all the popular Linux distros of 2019.
Contents:
- 1 Top 15 Most Popular Linux Distributions Of 2019
Top 15 Most Popular Linux Distributions Of 2019
As the year 2019 comes to an end, it’s time to find out which Linux distributions are most popular. However, the news of the Linux world at the Desktop level was not very surprising, while in the segment of the Internet of Things and Cloud, Linux has been one of the systems in the spotlight.
So, today we are going to know the most popular GNU / Linux distributions in 2019. So, check out the linux distributions list.
#1 Mint
Linux Mint continues to be the most popular Linux distribution in the world. Features such as simplicity, elegance, and support make this distribution a success story. It’s one of the Popular Linux Distributions.
#2 Debian
Debian (Ubuntu base and other known distributions) was undoubtedly one of the systems that marked the year 2013 and has been gaining more and more popularity. This is a very stable, clean and fairly fluid distribution. It’s also one of the best linuxdistro for laptops.
#3 Ubuntu
With millions of users around the world, Ubuntu is the third most popular operating system in the world. This GNU / Linux distribution has already been the most popular in the world and has gained in recent years some (small) improvements.
#4 openSUSE
The openSUSE project is a community project sponsored by Novell. By promoting the use of Linux everywhere, openSUSE.org provides one of the most commonly used Linux versions openSUSE for free. The openSUSE project aims to give programmers and Linux enthusiasts the best working tools with a very attractive interface.
#5 Manjaro
The Manjaro Linux is one of the most beautiful distributions, which facilitates the “input” of users in the world of Arch Linux. It is a rolling distro and has full compatibility with Arch repository (AUR – Arch User Repository).
#6 elementary OS
The elementary OS is one of best looking linux distro based on Ubuntu and targeted to desktops. Although not very popular (only three versions so far – Jupiter, Luna and now Freya), this distribution has a fantastic look and feel, guarantees a good performance and is quite stable.
#7 Fedora
Fedora is a distribution sponsored by RedHat and is very popular for including features and technologies that are not seen in other distributions. Fedora is a fast, stable and powerful operating system for daily use, built by a community worldwide. Currently, Fedora goes in version 25.
#8 ZorinOS
Zorin OS is one of those Linux distributions that stands out more than others for having some innovations and for looking very similar to Windows. Zorin OS brings to a working graphical environment for the Zorin Desktop.
#9 CentOS
The CentOS (Community Enterprise Operating System) is an Enterprise-class Linux distribution, source code-based freely distributed by Red Hat and maintained by the CentOS project. For those who need stability, this is the ideal operating system because itsthe most stable linux distro.
#10 Manjaro
With a completely elegant and innovative look, the Deepin project from China continues to show that it could be a great alternative to popular Windows. This Linux distribution is based on Debian and comes with a very elegant, efficient and simplified graphical environment called Deepin Desktop Environment (DDE) – it looks like a mixed Windows with Mac OS.
#11 Gentoo
Gentoo is one of the best & most interesting Linux Distribution that you can use today. Gentoo Linux distro focuses on delivering near-ideal tools to get everything done. The distro uses Portage as a Packet-management system to optimize new software. Gentoo is incredibly fast and one of the secure OS which you can use today.
#12 Ubuntu MATE
Well, if you don’t like the default look of Ubuntu, then you can try Ubuntu MATE. The distro brings a wide range of features and customization option. Users can select from tons of layouts like Traditional, Netbook, Redmond, etc.
#13 Steam OS
Well, Steam OS is meant primarily for gamers. Well, the distro promises better gaming performance compared to all other Linux distros out there. Not just that, but Steam OS also got support for gamepads, GPUs and other hardware. So, its one of the best linux distro for gaming.
#14 Ubermix
Well, if you have kids on home and if kids use your computer, then Ubermix might be the best choice for you. Ubermix is simply a kid-friendly Linux distribution that comes with touch support. The Linux distribution consists more than 60 useful tools which make it a perfect distro for teachers and students.
#15 Tails
Well, Tails is one of the most popular and best choice for secure web browsing. In fact, the Linux distro is also used by Edward Snowden for communications and browsing the web. The great thing about Tails is that the Debian-based distro can be booted on any computer via DVD or USB Drive. The distro packs some amazing tools which can help you to encrypt your emails, files, and texts sent over instant messaging platforms.
So, these are the ten most popular Linux distributions in the world. Most of them go to Desktops, but there are some that are very popular in the world of servers, as is the case with CentOS.
Linux is a far cry from the esoteric bundles of code it once was, and the number of polished distros out there, offering variants on Windows, OS X and Ubuntu, is testament to that.
If you’re new to Linux or are looking for a change, these distributions are easily among the best options in 2019. This list was designed to cover different experience levels and use cases. So whether you’re a system admin, developer, or a desktop user, you’ll find something to interest you.
Related: 16 of the Best Free Games For Linux
Ease of Use: Linux Mint
If you’re fresh to this whole Linux business, then it’s natural to feel a little overwhelmed if you’re migrating over from Windows or Mac OS. For that reason, you may want to start simple, and Linux Mint is just what you need.
Mint comes packed with much of the software you need to get straight back into your workflow, such as LibreOffice and some decent onboard media software. You have a choice of four main desktop environments, with Cinnamon being the most Windows-like with its pseudo-Start menu (though MATE remains a popular choice too). It’s pretty light resource-wise, too, loading faster and using less memory than the all-popular Ubuntu.
Mint is always in sync with the latest Ubuntu LTS releases, meaning you don’t need to worry about being left vulnerable during zero-day scares or malware outbreaks (well, no more so than the Ubuntu crew anyway).
Keeping this in mind, some people might also recommend Ubuntu or Elementary OS, but we will stick with Linux Mint.
Privacy: Tails
Privacy is a strange concept but one that is becoming more important as technology becomes inherently woven into our daily lives. It boils down to what you perceive as your threat model.
If you are trying to be 100% anonymous on the Internet, for example, you will have to try very hard to do this. If you want to prevent companies from building a data profile on you, then things are easier.
A good way to be more anonymous online is to use Tails.
Tails is a Debian-based Linux distro that comes pre-configured to use the Tor Network. Tor is a public decentralised network that allows users to send and receive traffic through several relays. The concept is simple – each relay has its own IP address which hides the original location of the user by creating several “layers.” This is especially useful for privacy-conscious individuals or users within countries that have oppressive Governments.
Tails is designed to be run from portable storage, meaning that it only uses your RAM and leaves no permanent traces of what you’ve been up to on it (though you can save data on your portable media).
It comes with a bunch of privacy-based encrypted tools like an instant messenger, KeePassX password manager, and email encryption tools. Crucially, LibreOffice is there for most of your productivity needs.
Forensics: Kail Linux
Linux is a strong player within the area of Forensics. There are many distros to pick from in this category, but I am choosing Kali Linux.
Kali Linux is a Debian-derived Linux distribution designed for digital forensics and penetration testing. It is maintained and funded by Offensive Security Ltd.
The toolset is very comprehensive, and prior knowledge would be useful. Beginners should take advantage of Offensive Security’s courses to become a Kali Ninja.
Runs from RAM: Puppy Linux
The obvious choice here is Puppy Linux.
Puppy is a super-lightweight distro that will run entirely within RAM on a given machine. This is incredibly useful if you need to perform tasks quickly. The entire system can be run from RAM with current versions generally taking up about 210 MB, allowing the boot medium to be removed after the operating system has started.
It has variations built on Slackware and Ubuntu, but they both have the same tools for the most part.
I use it when I need to repurpose and wipe hard drives using either the
dd
command or hdparm
but it is a fully stocked distro for a variety of tasks.Old Computers and Netbooks: Bodhi Linux
Despite the rise of the tablet, there are still users who have lighter portable netbooks and who make use of Linux. The same can be said for older machines that can be given new life.
A great distro for this is Bodhi Linux.
While it is a derivative of Ubuntu, it is an elegant and lightweight distro featuring Moksha, an Enlightenment-17-based desktop environment. Along with the polished desktop, Bodhi offers a minimal install which leaves the user free to customise easily. Bodhi offers a variety of ISO files, and, in particular, it can be installed on Chromebooks and legacy devices.
Rolling Release: Antergos
If you are tired of having to constantly upgrade your Linux distro from version to version, Arch Linux is the one for you. Antergos is based on Arch Linux and comes with all the benefits of a full vanilla Arch install but leaves that complication at the door. Antergos is Arch with no assembly required.
Antergos has developed its own graphical installer, Cnchi, which makes the Arch Linux install process an absolute breeze for any Linux user. It allows you to set up your system exactly how you want it and to boot into a perfectly-configured install with no bloat.
The Arch Linux Wiki is unparalleled when it comes to distribution documentation. Everything in it applies to Antergos. You also have the added benefit of Arch’s huge repositories, that are always kept updated, and the AUR (Arch User Repository).
If you’re more comfortable with Linux and looking for a new distribution packed with power and options, Antergos is definitely worth consideration.
For the Experienced: Gentoo
Gentoo might seem like an odd choice if you’ve paid attention to all the memes and noise around it. Gentoo is no joke, though. It’s easily the most flexible distribution around, and you can configure it to be as stable or bleeding edge as you need. Essentially, Gentoo is whatever you make it.
Gentoo is a source-based distribution, meaning you compile every package that you install from its source code when you install it. While this does take additional time, it also presents an opportunity to customize every package to meet your needs.
Whether you are installing Gentoo on a desktop or server, you can tailor it precisely. For desktops, you can choose your desktop environment or window manager without any unnecessary bloat. Servers provide a similar situation, allowing for lightweight purpose-built installations. As an added bonus Gentoo doesn’t make any decisions for you, not even for something like Systemd. If you don’t want it, you don’t need it.
On the side of security, the Gentoo Hardened project is one of the best, if not the best, projects within a Linux distribution to increase its overall security. Even without the GRSecurity patches that were previously a large part of the project, Gentoo Hardened is an excellent option for server or desktop security.
What are your opinions of the choices? Do you have better alternatives for the criteria selected, and if so, why? Let us know in the comments section below.
Ebooks
Brief: In this article, we will see the best Linux distro for beginners. This will help new Linux users to pick their first distribution.
Let’s face it, Linux can pose an overwhelming complexity to new users. But then, it’s not Linux itself that brings this complexity. Rather, it’s the “newness” factor that causes this. Not getting nostalgic, but remembering my first time with Linux, I didn’t even know what to expect. I liked it. But it was an upstream swim for me initially.
Not knowing where to start can be a downer. Especially for someone who does not have the concept of something else running on their PC in place of Windows.
Linux is more than an OS. It’s an idea where everybody grows together and there’s something for everybody. We have already covered:
In addition to that, there are distributions that cater to the needs of newcomers especially. So here are a few such Linux distros for beginners. You can watch it in a video and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more Linux related videos.
Best Linux Distros for Beginners
Please remember that this list is no particular order. The main criteria for compiling this list is ease of installation, out of the box hardware software, ease of use and availability of software packages.
1. Ubuntu
If you’ve researched Linux on the internet, it’s highly probable that you have come across Ubuntu. Ubuntu is one of the leading Linux distributions. It is also the perfect path to begin your Linux journey.
Ubuntu has been tagged as Linux for human beings. Now, this is because Ubuntu has put in a lot of effort on universal usability. Ubuntu does not require you to be technically sound for you to use it. It breaks the notion of Linux=Command line hassle. This is one of the major plus points that rocketed Ubuntu to where it is today.
Ubuntu offers a very convenient installation procedure. The installer speaks plain English (or any major language you want). You can even try out Ubuntu before actually going through the installation procedure. The installer provides simple options to:
- Install Ubuntu removing the older OS
- Install Ubuntu alongside Windows or any other existing OS (A choice is given at every startup to select the OS to boot).
- Configure partitions for users who know what they are doing.
Beginner tip: Select the second option if you are not sure about what to do.
Ubuntu’s user interface is called GNOME. It is as simple as well as productive as it gets. You can search anything from applications to files by pressing the Windows key. Is there any way you can make this simpler?
There are no driver installation issues as Ubuntu comes with a hardware detector which detects, downloads and installs optimal drivers for your PC. Also, the installation comes with all the basic software like a music player, video player, an office suite and games for some time killing.
Ubuntu has a great documentation and community support. Ubuntu forums and Ask Ubuntu provide an appreciable quality support in almost all aspects regarding Ubuntu. It’s highly probable that any question you might have will already be answered. And the answers are beginner friendly.
Do check out and download Ubuntu at the official site.
2. Linux Mint Cinnamon
For years, Linux Mint has been the number one Linux distribution on Distrowatch. Well deserved throne I must say. Linux mint is one of my聽personal favorites. It is elegant, graceful and provides a superior computing experience (out of the box).
Linux Mint features the Cinnamon desktop environment. New Linux users who are still in the process of familiarizing themselves with Linux software will find Cinnamon very useful. All the software are very accessibly grouped under categories. Although this is nothing of a mind-blowing feature, to new users who do not know the names of Linux software, this is a huge bonus.
Linux Mint is fast. Runs fine on older computers. Linux Mint is built upon the rock-solid Ubuntu base. It uses the same software repository as Ubuntu. About the Ubuntu software repository, Ubuntu pushes software for general only use after extensive testing. This means users will not have to deal with unexpected crashes and glitches that some new software are prone to, which can be a real no-no for new Linux users.
Windows 7 lovers who are really not into where Microsoft if heading with Windows 10 will find Linux Mint lovable. Linux Mint desktop is pretty similar to Windows 7 desktop. Similar toolbar, similar menu, similar tray icons are all set to make Windows users feel absolutely at home.
Personally, I’m more likely to suggest Linux Mint to someone who is new to Linux world as Linux Mint does impress users enough for them to accept it. To me, Linux Mint should be the first among the list of Linux for beginners.
Do check out Linux Mint here. Go for the Cinnamon version.
3. Zorin OS
A majority of computer users are Windows users. And when a Windows user gets a Linux, there’s a fair amount of ‘unlearning process’ that user must go through. A huge amount of operations have been fixed in our muscle memory. For example, the mouse reaching to the lower left corner of the screen (Start) everytime you want to launch an application. So if we could find something that eases these issues on Linux, it’s half a battle won. Enter Zorin OS.
Zorin OS is an Ubuntu-based, highly polished Linux distribution, entirely made for Windows refugees. Although pretty much every Linux distro is usable by everybody, some people might tend to be reluctant when the desktop looks too alien. Zorin OS dodges past this obstacle because of its similarities with Windows appearance wise.
Package managers are something of a new concept to Linux newcomers. That’s why Zorin OS comes with a huge (I mean really huge) list of pre-installed software. Anything you need, there’s good chance it’s already installed on Zorin OS. As if that was not enough, Wine and PlayOnLinux come pre-installed so you can run your loved Windows software and games here too.
Zorin OS comes with an amazing theme engine called the ‘Zorin look changer’. It offers some heavy customization options with presets to make your OS look like Windows 7, XP, 2000 or even a Mac for that matter. You’re going to feel home.
These features make Zorin OS the best Linux distro for beginners, isn’t it? Do check out the Zorin OS website to know more and download the OS.
4. Elementary OS
Since we have taken a look at Linux distros for Windows users, let’s swing by something for MacOS users too. Elementary OS very quickly rose to fame and now is always included in the list of top distros, all thanks to its aesthetic essence. Inspired by MacOS looks, Elementary OS is one of the most beautiful Linux distros.
Elementary OS is another Ubuntu-based operating system which means the operating system itself is unquestionably stable. Elementary OS features the Pantheon desktop environment. You can immediately notice the resemblance to MacOS desktop. This is an advantage to MacOS users switching to Linux as they will much comfortable with the desktop and this really eases the process of coping to this change.
The menu is simple and customizable according to user preferences. The operating system is zero intrusive so you can really focus on your work. It comes with a very small number of pre-installed software. So, any new user will not be repulsed by huge bloat. But hey, it’s got everything you need out of the box. For more software, Elementary OS provides a neat AppCenter. It is highly accessible and simple. Everything at one place. You can get all the software you want and perform upgrades in clicks.
Experience wise, Elementary OS is really a great piece of software. Definitely give it a try.
5. Linux Mint Mate
A good number of people who come to Linux are looking to revive older computers. With Windows 10, many computers that had decent specs just some years ago have become incompetent. A quick google will suggest you install Linux on such computers. In that way, you can keep them running up to the mark for the near future. Linux Mint Mate is a great Linux distro if you are looking for something to run your older computers.
Linux Mint Mate is very light, resource efficient but still a polished distro. It can run smoothly on computers with less muscle power. The desktop environment does not come with bells and jingles. But in no way is it functionally inferior to any other desktop environments. The operating system is non-intrusive and allows you to have a productive computing experience without getting in your way.
Again, the Linux Mint Mate is based on Ubuntu and has the advantage of huge base solid Ubuntu software repository. It comes with a minimum number of necessities pre-installed. Easy driver installation and setting management are made available.
You can run Linux Mint Mate even if you have 512 MB RAM and 9 GB hard disk space (the more the merrier).
The Mate desktop environment is really simple to use with no twists in the tale. This is really a huge plus point for Linux beginners. All the more reason to try out Linux Mint Mate.
6. Manjaro Linux
Ok. Any long time Linux user will say guiding a newcomer even in the general direction of Arch Linux is a sin. But hear me out.
Arch is considered experts-only Linux because of it’s highly complex installation procedure. Dancingbear party movies torrent. Manajro and Arch Linux have a common origin. But they differ extensively in everything else.
Manajro Linux has an extremely beginner friendly installation procedure. A lot of things are automated like driver installation using ‘Hardware detection’. Manjaro hugely negates the hardware driver hassles that torments a lot of other Linux distros. And even if you face any issues, Manjaro has an amazing community support.
Manjaro has its own software repository which maintains the latest of software. While providing up to date software to users is a priority, guaranteed stability is not at all compromised. This is one of the prime differences between Arch and Manjaro. Manjaro delays package releases to make sure they are absolutely stable and no regression will be caused. You can also access the Arch User Repository on Manjaro, so anything and everything you need, is always available.
If you want to know more about Manjaro features, do read my colleague John’s experience with Manjaro Linux and why he is hooked to it.
Manjaro Linux comes in XFCE, KDE, Gnome, Cinnamon and a host of more desktop environments. Do check out the official website.
To install any of the above 6 operating systems, you need to create a bootable USB stick. If you are currently using Windows use this guide to do so. Mac OS users may follow this guide.
Your choice for the best Linux distro for beginners?
Linux might come with a learning curve, but that’s not something anybody ever regretted. Go ahead get an ISO and check out Linux. If you are already a Linux user, do share this article and help someone fall in love with Linux in this season of love. Cheers.
With the feedback and requests we got from our Best Linux Distros for Gaming list, we had to do another list of the best lightweight Linux distros. Actually, some of them fit both our categories. Sure, there are other similar lists our there, but this one has up-to-date info and we’ve personally tried and tested (almost) every distro on our old laptops. It took us 7 months to compile this list and a few weeks to update it with new data! We’ve seen new lists that included distros with their latest update being in 2005. Come on, how is that distro still relevant and good in 2019? And don’t get us started on how each list is just a rehashed version of the same 5 distros. We purposefully included many distros in our list so you have more options to choose from. All distros are free and can run on ~512MB RAM or less. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, just pick any distro.
You don’t have to throw away your old PCs and laptops. Install a lightweight Linux distro on them and they’re as good as new. Lightweight distros don’t even have to be used on old hardware. You can install them on some bleeding-edge hardware and get the ultimate performance. Most distros are portable and can run on a Live CD/USB, without a hard drive. Why should you use other OSes full of bloatware and unnecessary stuff when you can use a perfectly fine Linux alternative?
If you’re having trouble viewing this article from a lightweight computer, visit the AMP version
Anyway, before we go on with the list, a few quick tips on how to choose the best one for you:
How to choose the best lightweight Linux distro for you
These guidelines should help, but if you’re feeling overwhelmed, just pick any distro from the list below and you’ll be fine.
- Any Linux distro is better than Windows/OS X when it comes to old hardware. Linux distros and the software that runs on them are far more optimized and compatible with old(er) hardware. If you’re using Windows or OS X and it “feels slow”, switch to a Linux distro. You’re guaranteed to see an improvement in performance. Some older versions of Windows and OS X are fast for older hardware, but they don’t get any support or updates, unlike all distros listed here.
- Choosing the right lightweight distro will depend on what you’re going to use it for. Some distros are optimized for certain activities, ie. servers and gaming. Are you going to use it for everyday browsing? If so, have in mind that websites have evolved and although the browser and OS itself will perform better, the websites can still be bloated and slow down your Linux. If you’re going to use it for random office tasks like word processing, spreadsheets, or presentations – the lightweight Linux distros will work just fine. Maybe you’d like to use your old laptop as a media device and watch movies on it. You’re good to go, as long as the movie itself is not a full Blu-Ray rip.
- Another guideline is how much you’re willing to sacrifice. How much OS features do you really need? You don’t really need all that fancy UI animations and 3D stuff. Some Linux distros do have great modern UIs, but they do require better hardware.
- Previous experience is another big factor you need to consider before you choose a lightweight Linux distro. Are you a beginner? Then don’t use Arch Linux. Have you used Ubuntu before? Then get a lightweight distro based on Ubuntu. Got used to the Windows XP interface and want something similar? Sure, we have the perfect distro for you.
- Pro-tip: do a bit of research for your hardware and see if the distro supports it. It most likely will, but just to be sure, you can do a quick google with your hardware model and the distro and you should get some results. Most distros can run on a cheap USB flash drive – you don’t even need an HDD/SSD. This is often referred to as a “Live CD/USB”. We’ll include a ‘minimum hardware requirements’ for each distro, so you can check if the hardware stats you have will support the distro. Most of these distros can run perfectly fine on a Raspberry Pi.
Shop for Laptops, USB Flash Drives, and More at Newegg. Go to Newegg
Quick overview of the distros included in our list
Now (finally), onto the main part, the best lightweight Linux distros for old computers/laptops. Click on the distro’s name to find more info, screenshots, and download links.
Distro | Minimum RAM (MB) | Minimum CPU | Minimum Disk Space (MB) | GUI | Release cycle | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lubuntu | 512 | Pentium 4, Pentium M, AMD K8 or newer CPU. At least 266 MHz | 3000 | LXLE | Standard | Beginner-friendly |
LXLE | 512 | Pentium 3 | 8000 | LXDE | LTS only | Based on Lubuntu |
Arch Linux | 512 | Any 64-compatible machine | 1000 | Any | Rolling | For advanced users |
ArchBang | 256 | i686 or x86_64 compatible machine | 700 | Openbox | Rolling | Arch Linux made easier |
ArchLabs | 512 | x86-64 Processor (+1.4GHz recommended) | 5000 | Openbox, XFCE4, i3, Bspwm, Awesome | Rolling | Arch Linux meets BunsenLabs |
Puppy Linux | 128 | 233 MHz | 512 | JWM | Standard | Portable (Live only) |
Linux Lite | 512 | 700 MHz | 2000 | XFCE | LTS only | Great for Windows users |
KNOPPIX | 120 | i486 | 2000 | LXDE | Standard | Portable (Live only) |
Peppermint | 512 | Any processor based on Intel x86 architecture | 3600 | LXDE | Hybrid | The Cloud Desktop based on Lubuntu |
PCLinuxOS | 512 | Any Intel, AMD or VIA x86/64 processor | 12000 | KDE, Mate, LXDE, XFCE | Rolling | Not the most lightweight, but it is fast |
Trisquel Mini | 128 | AMD K6 or Intel Pentium II | 3000 | LXDE | LTS only | Only free software |
Porteus | 256 | Any Intel, AMD or VIA x86/64 processor | 512 | KDE, LXQt, Mate, Cinnamon.. | Standard | THE portable Linux distro |
Manjaro Linux - Xfce Edition | 512 | 1 GHz | 30000 | Xfce | Rolling | Very powerful and flexible |
Peach OSI | 512 | 700 MHz processor (Intel Celeron or better) | 8600 | XFCE, Cinnamon, Mate.. | LTS only | 8 different versions to choose from |
Raspbian | 512 | 1 GHz | 5000 | Custom environment | Standard | Turn a Raspberry Pi into a fully-featured desktop PC |
Modern X | 256 | 366 MHz | 3000 | GNOME | Standard | Great for Windows/Mac users |
Debian | 256 | 1 GHz | 10000 | KDE | Hybrid | Stable, old, modern, popular |
Sparky Linux | 256 | i686 / amd64 CPU | 10000 | LXDE, Budgie, Enlightenment, JWM, Openbox, KDE, LXQt, MATE, Xfce.. | Rolling | Has the most editions/versions |
SliTaz | 192 | i486 or x86 Intel compatible processors | 80 | Openbox | Rolling | The lightweight desktop and server OS |
Elive | 128 | 300 MHz | 700 | Enlightenment | Standard | Custom lightweight desktop environment |
BunsenLabs Linux | 256 | 1 GHz | 10000 | Openbox | Hybrid | New and improved CrunchBang |
antiX | 192 | Any Intel, AMD or VIA x86/64 processor | 2800 | IceWM, Fluxbox, JWM, Xfce, herbstluftwm | Cyclical Rolling | Great Live USB Options |
Slax | 48 | Any Intel, AMD or VIA x86/64 processor | 220 | KDE | Standard | Portable and modular |
Linux Mint | 512 | Any Intel, AMD or VIA x86/64 processor | 10000 | XFCE, Cinnamon, Mate.. | Standard | Beautiful and easy to use |
wattOS | 192 | Any Intel, AMD or VIA x86/64 processor | 700 | LXDE, i3 | Standard | Lightweight and fully-featured |
Zorin OS Lite | 512 | 700 MHz | 8000 | Custom | LTS only | Great alternative to the Windows and Mac OS |
Bodhi Linux | 128 | 500 MHz | 4000 | Moksha (custom) | LTS only | Custom lightweight desktop environment |
Tiny Core Linux | 48 | At least an i486DX CPU | 11 | FLWM | Standard | Extremely lightweight, but not recommended for beginners |
CRUX | 192 | x86-64 or newer CPUs | 1000 | Openbox | Standard | Unlike any other |
Bonus Distros | Starting from 3 MB RAM! | Starting from 1.44! | Mixed. | Everything | Mixed | Our bonus list. You can find anything there. |
Lubuntu
Lubuntu is one of the most popular and most widely used lightweight Linux distros out there. Some use it as their main Linux distro on their powerful hardware just because of its performance and beautiful UI.
Lubuntu minimum hardware requirements
It can run on just about anything.
- Pentium 4, Pentium M, AMD K8 or newer CPU. At least 266 MHz
- 512 MB RAM
- 3 GB Disk Space (or more)
Anything more is just a plus. The requirements listed here are for the 16.04 LTS release, other releases may have slightly different requirements.
Lubuntu facts and features
The lightweight Ubuntu.
- Based on Ubuntu, without any bloat
- Has all the essential lightweight software pre-installed (office, browser, media players etc.)
- Uses LXDE. Future releases will use LXQt
- Great and active community support. There are also a couple of active social Lubuntu groups. You can find them here
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
LXLE
As an alternative to Lubuntu, we have LXLE. Based on Lubuntu, it has the performance optimizations of a lightweight distro with a beautiful UI.
LXLE minimum hardware requirements
Similar to Lubuntu.
- Pentium 3 processor
- At least 512 MB RAM
- 8 GB Disk Space
LXLE facts and features
Plug and go.
- Easy to set up – just install it and you are ready to go. No complex configurations needed
- Great for Windows XP/Vista/7 users
- A wide variety of default apps pre-installed
- Based on LXDE
- Only has LTS releases
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
Arch Linux
Flexible, lightweight and powerful Linux distro. Not recommended for beginners. The screenshot above is from an Arch Linux with the GNOME desktop environment (Elegant Theme).
Arch Linux minimum hardware requirements
Depends on what you’re going to use.
- Any 64-compatible machine. Has to be 64-bit
- Minimum 512 MB RAM
- At least 1 GB Disk Space
Arch Linux facts and features
Make it your own.
- Fully customizable – you choose which packages, desktop environments etc. you are going to use. You need to install them yourself
- The official wiki has in-depth tutorials on just about anything
- As lightweight as you make it be. You install only the packages and features you need. Nothing more.
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
ArchBang
If you want the power and flexibility of Arch Linux, but don’t want to do the complex set up and installation, you can use ArchBang. It’s based on Arch Linux and it’s inspired by CrunchBang.
Puppy Linux facts and features
Trisquel Mini facts and features
Manjaro Linux facts and features
antiX facts and features
Linux Mint minimum hardware requirements
Linux Mint facts and features
wattOS
Zorin OS Lite facts and features
Tiny Core Linux facts and features
CRUX facts and features
ArchBang minimum hardware requirements
Lightweight and easy on the system.
- i686 or x86_64 compatible machine
- 256MB RAM
- 700MB Disk Space
ArchBang facts and features
Arch Linux made easy easier.
- Can be used as a fully featured desktop and as a Live OS
- Best of both worlds – based on Arch Linux and inspired by CrunchBang
- Openbox window manager
- Rolling release
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
ArchLabs Linux
ArchLabs Linux is an Arch Linux-based distro inspired by BunsenLabs. They’ve evolved so much that they’re no longer a BunsenLabs clone now. It’s a rolling distro and it’s quite lightweight. It has an involved and very helpful community, no matter how small it is.
ArchLabs Linux minimum hardware requirements
Lightweight Arch Linux + BunsenLabs
- x86-64 Processor (+1.4GHz recommended)
- 512MB RAM
- 5GB Disk Space
ArchLabs Linux facts and features
Various minimal desktop environments and styles to choose from
- Easily installable using ABIF
- Welcome script to help with installing additional Window and Desktop managers
- Available window/desktop managers: Openbox, XFCE4, i3, Bspwm, and Awesome
- Rolling release
Puppy Linux(es)
Very lightweight Linux distro that should not be installed on a hard disk. It should run on a live CD/USB Flash Drive.
Puppy Linux minimum hardware requirements
Extremely lightweight.
- 233MHZ processor
- 128MB RAM
- 512MB free hard drive space to create an optional save file.
- No hard drive required
- CD-ROM/DVD/SD Card or USB Port
Puppy Linux facts and features
Puppy Linux is not a single distro, but a collection of many distros with different purposes and different sets of software.
- No hard drive required. Can run on a live CD/Flash Drive/SD Card
- Many different Linux Puppy distros to choose from. The distro in the screenshot above is the “Puppy Linux – Tahrpup” distro
- Puppy Linux runs in your PC’s memory, as opposed to running on your hard disk, which makes it extremely fast
- It’s portable – you can save data on your live flash drive and run it on any other computer
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
Linux Lite
Beautiful UI, easy to use and often used as a gateway from Windows to Linux.
Linux Lite minimum hardware requirements
Full of features, but quite lightweight.
- 700MHz processor
- 512MB RAM
- VGA screen (1024×768 resolution)
- At least 2GB Hard Disk Space
Linux Lite facts and features
Considering the UI – it’s a great alternative to the Windows OS
- Based on the XFCE desktop environment
- Ready to use out of the box. Everything you need is pre-installed
- Every release is LTS (5 years of support and updates)
- One of the best UIs on a lightweight Linux distro
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
KNOPPIX
Another live-only lightweight Linux distro. Bootable distro with a set of GNU/Linux apps and different software. Just plug the live USB/CD, start it, and you are good to go.
KNOPPIX minimum hardware requirements
One of the most lightweight distros.
- Intel/AMD-compatible CPU (i486 and up)
- At least 120MB RAM
- Standard SVGA-compatible graphics chipset
- 2GB Disk Space (varies)
KNOPPIX facts and features
Plug and play.
- Easy to use – just boot from CD/Flash Drive and use the distro
- All the software you need is pre-installed (GIMP, Firefox, Open Office, MPlayer…)
- Based on LXDE
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
Peppermint
The Desktop Cloud Linux. Integrate any Cloud-based (web) app into your Peppermint OS. Doesn’t have a lot of pre-installed apps so you can make Peppermint your own.
Peppermint minimum hardware requirements
Doesn’t need much, but it’s recommended to use more.
- 512MB RAM (1GB recommended)
- Any processor based on Intel x86 architecture
- At least 3.6GB Disk Space
Peppermint facts and features
The Desktop Cloud.
- Easily integrated with web apps
- Install the software you want – make Peppermint your own
- Great UI – especially if you’re moving from Windows
- Based on Lubuntu. LXDE desktop environment
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
PCLinuxOS
“So cool ice cubes are jealous” – straight from their website. Easily booted from a Live CD/USB and easily installed on your hard drive. Various desktop environments to choose from and a great UI.
PCLinuxOS minimum hardware requirements
Doesn’t need much. But it would be great if you had more.
- Any Intel, AMD or VIA x86/64 processor
- 512MB RAM (2GB recommended)
- 12GB Hard Disk Space
PCLinuxOS facts and features
Beautiful, cool, sleek, intuitive, easy.
- You can install the KDE-based PCOS, LXDE-based PCOS or the Mate-based PCOS. There’s also an XFCE community release
- Easily installed on a live CD/USB
- Beginner-friendly with lots of desktop environment options
Porteus
Porteus can run on a USB flash drive/CD/DVD or an SD card. It’s THE portable, lightweight Linux distro.
Porteus minimum hardware requirements
Extremely lightweight.
- Any Intel, AMD or VIA x86/64 processor
- 256 MB RAM (can be different depending on which desktop environment you use)
- No hard disk required. A flash drive with 512MB will work perfectly fine
Porteus facts and features
THE portable Linux.
- Use it on portable storage devices – USB/CD/DVD/SD card
- Different desktop environments to choose from: KDE, LXQt, Mate, Cinnamon and more
- ‘Persistent mode’ is available – save data directly on your rewritable removable storage device
- 15 seconds boot time
- ‘Porteus Kiosk‘ is a specialized edition that can be used on web terminals
Trisquel Mini
Trisquel GNU/Linux is, in a nutshell, Ubuntu with only free software. The default version of Trisquel runs with GNOME, but it has a “Mini” edition which runs on LXDE, which is very lightweight.
Trisquel Mini minimum hardware requirements
The default version is lightweight, but the Mini version is more lightweight.
- AMD K6 or Intel Pentium II
- 128MB RAM
- 3GB Disk Space
Trisquel Mini facts and features
Only free software.
- Great for any kind of use – home, work, education etc.
- Based on Ubuntu
- Mini version runs with LXDE
- Has different versions to choose from – including Trisquel Sugar TOAST which is designed to be used by children in learning environments
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
Manjaro Linux Xfce Edition
Another popular distro for advanced users is Manjaro – you can use the Xfce edition with a pre-installed desktop environment, which makes it easier to get started.
Manjaro Linux minimum hardware requirements
Not the most lightweight system, but very powerful and flexible.
- 1GHz processor
- 512MB RAM
- 30GB Hard Disk Space
Manjaro Linux facts and features
Flexible, fast and powerful.
- Rolling release
- Great for beginners and advanced users
- Based on Arch Linux
- Uses the Xfce edition (obviously)
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
Peach OSI
Lightweight Linux distro that resembles the Mac (OS X) interface. Free, beautiful, easy to use and fully-featured.
Peach OSI minimum hardware requirements
The minimum requirements can be different depending on which version you choose
- 700 MHz processor (Intel Celeron or better)
- 512MB RAM (1GB or more recommended)
- 8.6GB Disk Space
- VGA capable of 1024×768 screen resolution
Peach OSI facts and features
Different versions (editions) to choose from.
- Depending on your needs – you can choose from these versions: Peach TV, The Works, Barebones Multilingual, Netbook, Peach Kids, Peach Pi, Peach Pi TV
- Multi-purpose lightweight OS. Use it as a desktop OS, for your home theater system, for your kids etc.
- Based on Ubuntu, but highly customized
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
Raspbian
The OS built by Raspberry Pi that can easily run on a Pi.
Raspbian minimum hardware requirements
Lightweight, yet powerful.
- 1GHz Pentium processor. It can run on ARM-based processors too.
- 512 MB RAM
- 5GB Disk Space
Raspbian facts and features
Turn your Raspberry Pi into a fully-featured desktop PC.
- Raspberry Pi’s own OS
- Based on Debian (Raspbian)
- Lots of pre-installed software (including proprietary software)
- Can run as a ‘persistent live OS’ – saving data on your removable drive
Best Linux Distro 2019 Slant
Modern X
Based on openSUSE and the GNOME desktop environment. Lightweight and perfect for Windows/Mac users. Not to be confused with “Modern X OS”
Modern X minimum hardware requirements
Extremely lightweight.
- 366 MHz CPU
- 256MB RAM
- 3GB Disk Space
Modern X facts and features
Beginner-friendly gateway Linux distro for Windows and Mac users.
- Uses the GNOME desktop environment, optimized for speed and Windows/Mac users
- Different versions available
- Can run on a live CD/USB/SD card
Debian
We included lots of distros based on Debian, but we should definitely include Debian too. The Debian distro itself is very lightweight, stable and popular.
Debian minimum hardware requirements
Revive your old PC with an old, yet modern distro.
- 1GHz CPU
- 256MB RAM
- 10GB Disk Space
Debian facts and features
One of THE most popular Linux distros.
- VERY active community and extensive documentation
- Stable, easy to use
- Uses only free software
- You can use the Server version for your server
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
Sparky Linux
Lightweight Linux distro with lots of editions to choose from. Based on Debian with a rolling-release cycle.
Sparky Linux minimum hardware requirements
If you use LXDE, LXQt or Openbox:
- i686 / amd64 CPU
- 256MB RAM
- 10GB Disk Space
Sparky Linux facts and features
Has the most options to choose from.
- Different editions available – Home, Special, CLI and Minimal
- Desktop environments available – LXDE, Budgie, Enlightenment, JWM, Openbox, KDE, LXQt, MATE, Xfce…
- Beginner-friendly and beautiful UIs
- Rolling release cycle, based on the Testing branch of Debian
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
SliTaz
SliTaz or Simple Light Incredible Temporary Autonomous Zone is a lightweight Linux distro that can be used both as a desktop OS and as a server.
SliTaz minimum hardware requirements
Depending on which version you use, the RAM requirement can be as low as 16MB. Requirements for the default (core) version are:
- i486 or x86 Intel-compatible processors
- 192MB RAM
- 80MB Disk Space
SliTaz facts and features
Extremely lightweight server and/or desktop OS.
- Can be used as a server and as a desktop OS
- Rolling release
- Use it as a Live OS or as a desktop OS
- Easily runs on a Raspberry Pi
- Can be booted and used from the web (internet)
- Has 4 flavors: base, just-x, gtk-only and the full desktop
Elive
The extremely lightweight Linux distro with its own custom desktop environment. Revive your old PC with a beautiful OS with an intuitive UI.
Elive minimum hardware requirements
Fully-featured desktop OS that can run on just about anything.
- 300MHz CPU
- 128MB RAM
- 700MB Disk Space
Elive facts and features
Uses it’s own custom desktop environment.
- Powered by Enlightenment
- Based on Debian. Apart from all the apt packages, there are some custom software packages too
- Pre-installed with all the apps you need – including games
- Easily customizable and extendable with Enlightenment themes
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
BunsenLabs Linux
BunsenLabs Linux is a distro based on Debian. A successor to CrunchBang, uses the Openbox window manager which makes it a beautiful and lightweight distro.
BunsenLabs Linux minimum hardware requirements
It uses Openbox, so very lightweight.
- 1GHz CPU
- 256MB RAM
- 10GB Disk Space
BunsenLabs Linux facts and features
The new (and improved) CrunchBang.
- Based on Debian
- Uses the Openbox window manager
- Active and helpful community
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
antiX
The lightweight distro perfect for both newcomers and experienced Linux users. Used as a desktop OS and as a Live OS.
antiX minimum hardware requirements
Light and beautiful.
- Just about any CPU
- 192MB RAM is the absolute minimum. 256MB or more is recommended
- 2.8GB Disk Space
antiX facts and features
All-in-one lightweight distro.
- Can be used as a Live OS with many live features
- Can be used persistently on a Live USB
- Fully featured as a Desktop OS
- Based on Debian
- Has different window managers to choose from: IceWM, Fluxbox, JWM and herbstluftwm
Slax Linux
A modular and portable lightweight Linux distro based on Slackware. Since it’s modular, you can install any software. Just download a module and copy it to Slax.
Slax minimum hardware requirements
Extremely lightweight, especially if you use the text-mode edition.
- Any Intel/AMD CPU will work. i486 or newer CPU
- 48MB RAM for text-mode 256MB of RAM for KDE desktop
- 220MB Disk Space
Slax facts and features
Your pocket operating system
- Modular, you can install any software
- Has all the apps you need pre-installed
- Portable via a Live CD/USB
- Different editions to choose from, all with different purposes and features
Linux Mint
Linux Mint is one of the popular Linux distros overall. However, the MATE, Cinnamon and Xfce editions are quite lightweight, so they deserve a spot on our list. Note: the KDE edition is not lightweight.
Linux Mint minimum hardware requirements
Depends on the edition, but all are pretty lightweight.
- 700MHz CPU
- 512MB RAM
- 10GB Disk Space
Linux Mint facts and features
One of the most popular distros.
- Very active community
- Beautiful user interfaces
- Stable, reliable
- All the software you need pre-installed
- Lots of different editions to choose from
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
wattOS
A lightweight, fully featured OS that you can use as a Desktop OS, as a Kiosk and just about anything. Based on Ubuntu and has two editions to choose from.
wattOS minimum hardware requirements
Depends on what version you use, but still very lightweight.
- Any Intel or AMD CPU will work
- 192MB RAM for Microwatt. More if you use the LXDE edition
- 700MB Disk Space
wattOS facts and features
Lightweight and functional.
- The Microwatt Edition of wattOS is extremely lightweight and based on the i3 tiling window manager
- There’s also an LXDE edition which can be used as a fully featured desktop OS. Great for beginners
- New version (R11) is coming soon this year
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
Zorin OS Lite
A great alternative to Windows and Mac OS. The “Lite” version is relatively lightweight, but it’s still in beta.
Zorin OS Lite minimum hardware requirements
Light and ready to use out of the box.
- 700MHz Single Core
- 512MB RAM
- 8GB Disk Space
- 640×480 resolution
Zorin OS Lite facts and features
Most Secure Linux Distro 2019
If you’re using Windows or Mac and want to switch to Linux on your old laptop.
- All the software you need pre-installed
- Different desktop layouts (themes) to choose from
- Compatible with Windows apps via Wine (pre-installed)
- Intuitive and beautiful UI
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
Bodhi Linux
A minimalistic Linux distro with a custom-built window manager – Moksha, which only needs 100MB RAM to run.
Bodhi Linux minimum hardware requirements
Minimalistic and lightweight.
- 500MHz – any CPU
- 128MB minimum RAM
- 4GB Disk Space
Bodhi Linux facts and features
The Enlightened, Minimalistic, Lightweight Linux Distribution.
- Has a custom “desktop environment” (window manager) – Moksha. The WM is very lightweight – needs only 100MB to run and it has every feature you’d need
- Different versions/flavors to choose from
- An active community ready to help
- All the apps you need pre-installed
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
Tiny Core Linux
Tiny Core Linux (TCL) is THE most lightweight distro we have on our list. It’s portable too. Though, it’s not recommended for beginners. There’s extensive documentation, so if you want to learn more about it, you can.
Tiny Core Linux minimum hardware requirements
The most lightweight.
- At least i486DX CPU
- 48MB RAM
- 11MB Disk Space (can be more or less, depending on which Core you use)
Tiny Core Linux facts and features
Fast, flexible and powerful. Not recommended for beginners.
- Different “Cores” to choose from: piCore – for Raspberry Pis, Tiny Core – with a GUI, MicroCore – without a GUI and more
- Extremely lightweight with lots of possibilities – customize it to your needs
- Runs in RAM
- Portable
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
CRUX
Lightweight distro using the Openbox window manager – recommended for advanced users only. It is not based on any other Linux distro.
CRUX minimum hardware requirements
Extremely lightweight if you preform a custom chroot installation.
- x86-64 or newer CPUs. i686 (Pentium-Pro, Celeron, Pentium-III) or lower processor won’t work.
- 192MB RAM. 16MB if you preform a custom chroot installation
- 1000MB Disk Space – can vary depending on what you use
CRUX facts and features
Unlike any other.
- Not based on any other distro
- Uses the lightweight window manager Openbox
- Doesn’t have a GUI installation
- NOT recommended for beginners
- Easily installable (and usable) via a USB flash drive.
Distrowatch
Conclusion and bonus distros
The distros above are our “main” lightweight Linux distros. It should be enough, but if you’d like to compare more distros and explore the vast world of lightweight Linux distros, move on to our Bonus list.
This list (including the bonus one) is quite large, so there must be some errors or typos, even though we reviewed it a couple of times. If you notice any errors, have any questions, or if you have a suggestion for a distro, please leave a comment!
This list (including the bonus one) is quite large, so there must be some errors or typos, even though we reviewed it a couple of times. If you notice any errors, have any questions, or if you have a suggestion for a distro, please leave a comment!
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Bonus list includes:
- Distros that run on 3 MB RAM, on a floppy disk!
- Distros issued and maintained by the United States Department of Defense
- Distros that completely run in RAM and can still be used after removing the live CD/USB
- Distros used on web servers for web apps
- Distros based on Slackware
- Distros based on distros based on distros our main distros list has (is this a tongue twister?)
- Distros NOT based on Linux. Although they are not based on Linux, they are still lightweight, free and/or both
- …and more!