A Linux distribution packages the Linux kernel with software, a package manager and usually a desktop. They differ in who they're designed for, how often they update and how you install software.
Information links to each project's official website and documentation.
A popular general-purpose Linux distribution for desktops, development, servers and the cloud.
A long-established, community-run distribution known for stability.
A beginner-friendly desktop distribution with a familiar layout.
A community distribution with up-to-date software, sponsored by Red Hat.
A minimal, rolling-release distribution you build up yourself.
An Arch-based distribution with graphical installers and ready-made desktops.
An Ubuntu-based distribution from System76, popular with developers and gamers.
A community project offering the rolling Tumbleweed and the regular-release Leap.
An Ubuntu-based distribution designed to feel familiar to Windows and macOS users.
An Ubuntu-based distribution with its own carefully designed Pantheon desktop.
A specialist Debian-based distribution for penetration testing, security research and digital forensics.
A Debian-based distribution with editions for security work and everyday privacy-focused use.
A community enterprise distribution compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
A community enterprise distribution compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
If you're new to Linux, Ubuntu, Linux Mint and Zorin OS are common starting points. Developers often choose Fedora, Ubuntu or Pop!_OS. For servers, Debian, Ubuntu LTS and the RHEL-compatible Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux are widely used. Kali Linux and Parrot OS are specialist security distributions rather than everyday desktops. See how Linux package managers differ.
