Linux Distributions

Choosing a Linux Distro: Which Distro?

• Scott Tansowny
• Linux distributions

Updated September 23, 2024

So, you have decided to install Linux on your desktop computer, mobile device, or server and need to choose a distribution or “distro”. Or maybe you’re already a Linux user and are just looking to try out something new. Either way there are so many different Linux distros that the choice can be a daunting one, especially since each distribution has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Following are some tips on selecting a distribution and some of my top picks.

Choosing a Linux Distro: Community-Based or Corporate-Backed?

• Scott Tansowny
• Linux distributions

When choosing what Linux Distribution to use, a key factor can be who it is developing the distro and for what purpose. Basically, this boils down to community-based distributions such as Arch Linux and Debian and corporate-backed distributions such as Ubuntu. There are some key differences between the two types that I will discuss here which may impact which type of distro you choose.

Choosing a Linux Distro: Rolling or Fixed?

• Scott Tansowny
• Linux distributions

Linux distributions are constantly updating their software and packages to new versions and there are two main ways that a distribution can do this, a fixed release model and a rolling release model. So, what are the differences, and which one is right for you?

Choosing a Linux Distro: Which Desktop Environment?

• Scott Tansowny
• Linux distributions

The look, feel, and features of your Linux distribution are greatly impacted by the desktop environment or DE that it uses. A desktop environment is basically a selection of packages that work together to give you a full, cohesive experience. Some distributions focus on a particular DE while others make using any of them easy. To help with the decision of which DE to use I will briefly describe my top picks and some pros and cons of each.