Linux is a free and open-source operating system based on Unix. Nowadays, Linux has gained huge attention and is being widely used due to its security and flexibility. In this article, we are going to cover some best Linux Distros also called Linux Distributions. Linux distros are operating systems that are based on the Linux kernel.
Best Linux Distros For Laptops
So now let’s take a look at the best Linux distros for laptops in 2022 and see which one can provide the best security and flexibility to our laptops.
1. Linux Mint
Linux Mint is a popular distribution of Linux based on Ubuntu and Debian. It is a community-driven free and open-source Linux distribution providing a huge number of packages. It is easy to use with an interactive User Interface. In October 2012, the Linux Format titled Linux Mint was the best distribution of 2012. It was first released in 2006 with a beta version 1.0 named ‘Ada’. Currently, the latest version of mint is ‘Ulyssa‘ released in July 2022. It comes with default software like LibreOffice, Firefox, Thunderbird, HexChat, Pidgin, and Transmission, while one can download other software from the package manager. Linux Mint maintains the operating system and develops software for it, mostly in Python.
2. Ubuntu
This is one of the most common Linux distributions used by people. Due to its user-friendly interface and elegance, it is widely preferred by people who are beginners to Linux. It can be used not only on PCs but also on tablets and smartphones. Ubuntu acts as a base for many other Linux distributions like Lubuntu 20.04 LTS, Kubuntu 20.04, and Linux Mint 20.04 LTS (Ulyana). It releases updated versions predictably every six months with security and bug fixes. Ubuntu supports the GNOME desktop environment and is a popular operating system for cloud computing while also providing day-to-day useful applications like Firefox, LibreOffice, Audacious, GIMP, etc.
3. Pop_OS! from System76
Pop_OS! is a Linux distribution developed by System 76 featuring a custom GNOME desktop. Developed recently, it was first released in October 2017. Pop_OS! also provides many default applications like Geary, LibreOffice, and Firefox while other software can be installed from APT, the package manager in Pop OS.
4. MX Linux
MX Linux is a popular Debian-based Linux distribution. It was first released in March 2014 and provides a user-friendly experience for both beginners and intermediate Linux users. Its discussion started within the MEPIS community which was later joined by antiX for development. MX Linux has basic tools like a graphic installer, a GUI-based method to change a Linux kernel, MX-snapshot, etc.
5. Elementary OS
Elementary OS is yet another Linux distribution based on Ubuntu LTS developed and maintained by Elementary, Inc. It comes with a custom desktop environment called Pantheon and many custom apps including Photos, Music, Videos, Calendar, Terminal, Files, and more. It also comes with some familiar apps like the Epiphany web browser and a fork of Geary mail. As per Elementary OS, it is a fast, open, and privacy-respecting replacement for Windows and macOS.
6. Fedora
Fedora is developed by Fedora Project and sponsored by Red Hat. It is one of the most user-friendly distros. The default desktop environment in Fedora is GNOME and the default user interface is the GNOME Shell while other desktop environments are also available and can be installed. Fedora provides various software that is pre-installed in the os and more software can be installed from the DNF package manager. Fedora Linux was released in 2003 when Red Hat Enterprise Linux was discontinued.
7. Zorin
Zorin is a Linux distribution based on Ubuntu. It has a very easy Graphical User Interface (GUI) and programs similar to windows which are designed specifically for newbies switching from Windows to Linux. It allows users to run compatible Windows software for ease of transition on it. Written in C, C++, Python, D, and Java, Zorin OS Company is based in Dublin and was started in 2009.
8. Deepin
Deepin Linux also called Linux Deepin and Hiweed Linux is a distro based on Debian. It supports its own desktop environment, DDE, the Deepin Desktop Environment. It is developed and maintained by Wuhan Deepin Technology in Wuhan, China. Therefore, it is majorly used by Chinese people. It was initially released in February 2004 and later in 2015 Wuhan Deepin Technology joined the Linux Foundation.
9. Solus
Solus is based on Linux Kernel. Earlier it was called Evolve OS. It is introduced for personal computers and personal use. It does not claim any software support specifically for enterprise and server environments. Solus was first launched in December 2015 with version 1.0. It is stable, very easy to use, and it seems to have a wide selection of the latest software available in its own repositories. It features Budgie, GNOME, KDE Plasma, and MATE desktop environments. Solus is available only for 64-bit computers.
10. Debian
Debian is one of the oldest Linux distributions which is a base for other distributions like Ubuntu, PureOS, and SteamOS. It was released first in 1993. Debian has won many awards including The best Linux distro of 2011. It comes with applications like LibreOffice, Firefox, Evolution mail, K3b disc burner, VLC media player, GIMP, etc. It is best suited for server distribution and is very secure and user-friendly.
