Ranking Linux Distributions for 2024: a tier list for my use case !

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to ranking Linux distributions based on the criteria discussed in the video "Ranking Linux Distributions for 2024" by The Linux Experiment. Whether you're a newcomer or an experienced user, this guide will help you choose the right Linux distro for your needs.

Step 1: Understand the Ranking Criteria

Before diving into specific distributions, familiarize yourself with the criteria used to rank them. Key factors include:

• User Experience: Ease of installation and daily use.
• Performance: How well the distribution runs on various hardware.
• Community Support: Availability of forums, documentation, and active user communities.
• Software Availability: Access to applications and package management options.
• Customization: Flexibility in tweaking settings and appearance.

Step 2: Explore Ubuntu

• Overview: A widely-used distribution known for its user-friendliness.
• Practical Advice:
  • Ideal for beginners due to its large community and extensive documentation.
  • Supports a wide range of software and hardware.

Step 3: Discover Linux Mint

• Overview: A derivative of Ubuntu that focuses on a traditional desktop experience.
• Practical Advice:
  • Great for users transitioning from Windows.
  • Comes with pre-installed multimedia codecs.

Step 4: Check Out Zorin OS

• Overview: Designed to make the transition from Windows easier.
• Practical Advice:
  • Offers a user-friendly interface with a familiar layout.
  • Provides options for customizing the look and feel.

Step 5: Learn About elementaryOS

• Overview: A distribution aimed at simplicity and elegance.
• Practical Advice:
  • Features a clean and attractive interface.
  • Best for users who appreciate design and usability.

Step 6: Evaluate Fedora

• Overview: Known for its cutting-edge features and technologies.
• Practical Advice:
  • Ideal for developers and tech enthusiasts.
  • Regular updates and a focus on open-source software.

Step 7: Review Debian Stable

• Overview: Renowned for its stability and reliability.
• Practical Advice:
  • Suitable for servers and mission-critical applications.
  • Extensive package repository, though it may not have the latest software.

Step 8: Analyze OpenSUSE Tumbleweed

• Overview: A rolling release version of OpenSUSE.
• Practical Advice:
  • Great for users who want the latest software.
  • Requires regular updates and maintenance.

Step 9: Look at OpenSUSE Leap

• Overview: A more stable version compared to Tumbleweed.
• Practical Advice:
  • Balances cutting-edge features with stability.
  • Good for both desktop and server use.

Step 10: Investigate Arch Linux

• Overview: A minimalist distribution that allows for complete customization.
• Practical Advice:
  • Best for advanced users who want to build their system from the ground up.
  • Has a steep learning curve but offers a powerful experience.

Step 11: Consider Manjaro

• Overview: Based on Arch but more user-friendly.
• Practical Advice:
  • Suitable for users who want Arch's benefits without the complexity.
  • Provides an easy installation and good hardware support.

Step 12: Discover Tuxedo OS

• Overview: Tailored for Tuxedo Computers, optimized for performance.
• Practical Advice:
  • Offers great hardware compatibility and support from the manufacturer.

Step 13: Explore Pop!_OS

• Overview: Developed by System76, tailored for creators and developers.
• Practical Advice:
  • Excellent for gaming and productivity with built-in tools for managing workflows.

Step 14: Review Solus

• Overview: An independent operating system designed for home computing.
• Practical Advice:
  • Features the Budgie desktop environment for a modern look.
  • Focuses on user-friendliness and performance.

Step 15: Look Into Gentoo

• Overview: A source-based distribution that offers complete control over the system.
• Practical Advice:
  • Geared towards advanced users who want to optimize every aspect of their OS.

Step 16: Analyze KDE Neon

• Overview: A showcase for the latest KDE software.
• Practical Advice:
  • Good for users who want the latest KDE Plasma features.
  • Best used by those who prefer a bleeding-edge desktop environment.

Step 17: Investigate Asahi Linux / Fedora Asahi

• Overview: Optimized for Apple Silicon systems.
• Practical Advice:
  • Ideal for Mac users transitioning to Linux on M1 or M2 chips.

Step 18: Explore NixOS

• Overview: Unique for its declarative configuration.
• Practical Advice:
  • Best for advanced users who want reproducible and manageable environments.

Step 19: Review HoloISO

• Overview: A project to bring Arch Linux to the Steam Deck.
• Practical Advice:
  • Great for gamers looking to expand their console's capabilities.

Step 20: Consider Nobara

• Overview: A Fedora-based distro tailored for gaming.
• Practical Advice:
  • Provides optimizations and tools for a better gaming experience.

Step 21: Analyze Vanilla OS

• Overview: A minimalist distribution focused on simplicity.
• Practical Advice:
  • Good for users who want a clean slate and prefer to install only what they need.

Step 22: Explore ChromeOS Flex

• Overview: A lightweight OS designed for web-centric environments.
• Practical Advice:
  • Best for users who primarily use web applications.

Step 23: Review Deepin

• Overview: Known for its beautiful design and user-friendly interface.
• Practical Advice:
  • Suited for users who prioritize aesthetics alongside functionality.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Linux distribution depends on your specific needs and preferences. This guide highlights popular options and their unique features. As you explore different distributions, consider what aspects are most important for your use case, whether it be user-friendliness, performance, or customization. Happy exploring!