10 Best Linux Distributions In 2024

The Linux Distros is generally acknowledged as the third of the holy triplet of PC programs, along with Windows and macOS. Here we have provided you with the top 10 best Linux distros in 2024 for all professionals.

Hence Linux can be defined as the most rebellious among the three, as it’s flexible and customizable, including a bunch of various Best Linux distros designed by unique associations for various values.

Moreover, the Linux “core” (kernel) and most distros are free, which is a significant trading point for the OS when it is compared to Windows and macOS.

As there are several Linux distros are available for various situations. Even if you are behind an OS that is customized for desktops, workstations, laptops, servers, gaming, or A/V editing, there is a distro over there for everyone.

Hence, we are trying to summarize the most reliable and popular Linux distros accessible, each of which is customized for desktop use.

Therefore, you can install those Linux distros on a Chromebook, PC, or Mac as a substitute for your prevailing operating system, utilize both in a dual-boot scenario or in combination with one of the best practical tools out there. 

Well, if you want a Linux distro similar to Windows? Or do you like to apply commands rather than click? Or do you want something special on privacy? These and several other determinants will help you decide which would be the most suitable Linux distro for you.

Usually, the top Linux distros list is customized to meet users’ requirements. For example, Kali Linux is specifically created for digital forensics and penetration testing.

Hence, here in this article, we have selected the top 10 best Linux distros list, and we have updated this list from Popular Linux distro 2024.

Table of Contents

What is Linux Distro?
Key Features of Popular Linux Distros
Best Linux Distros 2024
Ubuntu
CentOS
Debian
Linux Mint
Arch Linux
Tails
Fedora
Elementary OS
Kali Linux
MX Linux
Conclusion

What is Linux Distro?

As we have said before Linux is flexible and customizable, which includes a bunch of unique features for different uses.

Moreover, we can also say that Linux is a house to nearly each programming language, and it is a Unix-like operating system. 

Hence, this open-source operating system is basically designed as per the Linux kernel and is usually collected in multiple Linux distributions.

Thus the Linux distributions, traditionally known as a distro, are operating systems that progressed from a software compilation based on the Linux kernel.

Various users use Linux by downloading one of the various Linux distros. Linux operating systems are most common to coders, programmers, and gamers. 

Thus, we can say that Linux is a worldly gift that has shaped our modern lives. In today’s world, we can’t imagine a particular moment outwardly technology.

Key Features of Popular Linux Distros

Distro	Key Features
Ubuntu	Compiz performance improvements. Kernel 3.11 LibreOffice 4.12
CentOS	Excellent documentation and support community. Based on Debian. Open stack interface.
Debian	Morden branch of GnuPG UEFI support improved MariaDB is default
Linux Mint	Software manager Automatic updates Better file search in Nemo
Arch Linux	Easy installation Great learning tool
Tails	Stream isolation The onion circuit’s graphical from network manager
Fedora	Dynamic firewall Better end-user software Virtual desktop support
Elementary OS	Easy image resizing Keyboard shortcut cheat sheet Bold use of color
Kali Linux	Full customization Full disk encryption Metapackages
MX Linux	One-click enabling event sound. Hibernation is now enabled by default. Easy and flexible installation.

Therefore, Linux has produced the most significant innovations in the creation of modern technology. 

At first, Linux was not like the form it is; it has evolved a long way through varied crafting and drafting from an open-source friendly association.

Thus, without a doubt, we can say that Linux does not only appear with a delicate-looking desktop manager, but it also contributes a wide range of beneficial and productive sets of free and open-source software for performing all the basic and necessary needs of the users.

Now, without wasting much time, let’s explore the list below.

Best Linux Distros 2024

• Ubuntu
• CentOS
• Debian
• Linux Mint
• Arch Linux
• Tails
• Fedora
• Elementary OS
• Kali Linux
• MX Linux

1. Ubuntu

Core Features:

Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distros for various reasons. Well, the most popular qualities of Linux and simultaneously with Mint are wholly approved for Linux newcomers, as it’s amicable.

The latest versions of Ubuntu are published every six months, and in all other years, the developer officially releases an LTS version of Ubuntu.

Those promises promise five years of protection and overall maintenance updates. The standard releases are recommended for one year only.

Hence, the recent LTS version of Ubuntu utilizes the Gnome 3 desktop context, which may be less familiar to Windows and macOS users.

Not only this but there are also varieties of Ubuntu that operate in different situations, such as Lubuntu, which employs a minimum desktop context based on LXDE and an assortment of fast, lightweight applications.

This puts far less stress on system resources than the graphic-intensive Unity.

To Whom it is advised?

Ubuntu, a popular and user-friendly Linux distribution, is advised for a wide range of users. It is particularly suitable for those new to Linux, thanks to its intuitive interface and extensive documentation.

Students, developers, and professionals who require a stable, secure, and cost-effective operating system will find Ubuntu appealing.

Its comprehensive software repositories and compatibility with a variety of hardware make it a great choice for both personal and professional use.

Additionally, Ubuntu’s strong community support and regular updates ensure a reliable and up-to-date experience for all users.

Key Features:-

• Compiz performance improvements.
• Kernel 3.11
• LibreOffice 4.12

2. CentOS

Core Features:

This Linux is popular as it is an offshoot of the enterprise version of Red Hat Linux.

Thus, its focus is on security rather than continuous updates. Hence, just like Red Hat, security and support updates for CentOS are bootlegged out up to 10 years from the first release of every version.

Thus, CentOS is designed to be super-reliable, so it’s an excellent alternative for a server.

But we can say that it’s not a good bet for someone looking for a new OS for everyday usage on their desktop PC or laptop.

Moreover, you can experience the satisfaction of having something for nothing – sets selected for the industrial version of Red Hat Linux are entirely agreeable with CentOS. Hence, without any doubt, you can utilize them free of cost.  

To Whom it is advised?

We recommend CentOS for enterprise-level stability and long-term support, especially in server situations.

It’s great for system administrators, IT professionals, and enterprises that need a reliable, secure platform to host services and applications. Free alternative CentOS, based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), is equally suitable for RHEL users.

Critical infrastructure, enterprise applications, and web servers use it for its stability and reliability. It prioritizes stability over functionality, therefore it may not be ideal for desktop users or Linux beginners.

Key Features:-

• Excellent documentation and support community.
• Based on Debian.
• Open stack interface.

3. Debian

Core Features:

Debian powers the internet throughout the world. If we go along with the statistics, more than 96% of the web servers, Websites, and cloud hosts are powered by Linux.

Debian wasn’t created to be user-friendly or allow a quick and easy out-of-the-box experience.

Hence, when you try to download and run live Debian, all you receive is a black extremity screen with a prompt at the top of your screen.

Just like the pre-built distributions that we discussed before, Debian provides you with more do-it-yourself practice.

You determine the packages you need to install, the desktop background you want, and any supplements you need for the OS.

Well, you can imagine Debian as a stock Android. MIUI and Samsung’s One UI are generally created on stock Android.

Businesses building this for their phones can be associated with the Linux distributions built on Debian.

To Whom it is advised?

Users that value stability, security, and free software should utilize Debian. It is ideal for sophisticated users, system administrators, and developers that need a stable platform for programming, servers, or daily use.

Open-source enthusiasts like Debian’s large software repository and rigorous open-source principles. Long release cycles promote reliability, but users who want the latest software features may not like it.

Debian’s strong community support and extensive documentation make it a good choice for education and Linux system learning.

Key features:-

• Morden branch of GnuPG
• UEFI support improved
• MariaDB is default

4. Linux Mint

Core Features:

Linux Mint is an inclusive ‘default’ Linux distro for current Linux users, as it appears with a set of the software you’ll require while switching from Mac or Windows, such as LibreOffice, the preferred productivity suite for Linux users.

Thus, it also has sufficient support for established media formats, enabling you to play videos, DVDs, and MP3 music lists out of the box.

However, you can also download three main master characteristics of Mint 19, each of which employs a separate desktop atmosphere, the topmost panel of the interface enabling you to adjust elements such as the presence of windows and menus.

Hence, Cinnamon is currently the most famous, but you can also select the more basic MATE or Xfce.

Hence, Linux Mint 18.3 was the latest release to have an established KDE version.

Unluckily, this is no longer possible with Linux Mint 19, but it can still be installed on a chief of version 19 if you miss it.

Timeshift was launched in version 18.3, and to all Linux Mint publicity, it is one of the main characteristics of Linux Mint 19.

The timeshift allows users to re-establish their computers from the last working snapshot.

Therefore, all these desktop surroundings allow a good deal of customization choices, so feel free to download a few and test them to find out which works best.

To Whom it is advised?

Linux Mint is suggested for Linux beginners and those wanting an easy-to-use OS. The UI is familiar and easy to use, making it ideal for Windows users.

Linux Mint has a lot of pre-installed software, making it ideal for web browsing, media consumption, and office work.

Due to its efficiency and minimal resource needs, it works well with older hardware. However, sophisticated users who demand a customisable or cutting-edge environment may not like it.

Linux Mint is suitable for casual users, students, and anybody seeking a stable, simple, and low-maintenance OS.

Key Features:-

• Software manager.
• Automatic updates.
• Better file search file in Nemo.

5. Arch Linux

Core Features:

If you want to try a somewhat less user-friendly and popular Linux distro, Arch Linux is one of the most popular options.

Arch Linux simply enables you to customize your interface by using the terminal to download and install packets.

It’s very useful for developers and those with more traditional machines, which might not want random packages exerting up space.

Thus the main aim of Arch Linux is to store items that are simple, and not so important for users as much as to ensure that code is clear and correct, with minimum access to everything.

Hence, not so many things are bundled with Arch Linux like other Linux distros. So users will be expected to download any additional software they require, as well as customize Arch Linux as per their needs.

Thus it might make the Linux distros a little complex; the reduction of bloat can make it very attractive to users who need a clean Linux practice with little or no confusion.

Hence, the effect of a Linux experience that supports more sophisticated users rather than newcomers.

Thus, the original version was built to be more user-friendly, entitled Antergos, but that has now been terminated.

Moreover, there is another feature of Arch Linux that, rather than significant releases, accompanies a rolling deliverance model that is constantly updated.

To Whom it is advised?

Arch Linux is ideal for experienced Linux users who want full control over their OS. Arch lets users build a system from scratch, installing only what they need, making it appealing to “DIY”ers.

This makes it excellent for developers, tinkerers, and enthusiasts who wish to handle their entire system.

For customers that value cutting-edge software and functionality, Arch’s rolling release approach provides the newest updates.

Its steep learning curve and hands-on maintenance may be difficult for beginners or those who prefer an out-of-the-box solution. Arch Linux is also popular with Linux beginners due of its extensive wiki.

Key features:-

• Easy installation
• Great learning tool

6. Tails

Core Features:

Tails is one of the privacy-oriented popular Linux distros that aim to screen your location and identification as much as possible. Hence, Edward Snowden also practiced it.

The Tails OS routes all its internet transactions within the anonymizing Tor network, which is created to block data from being hijacked and analyzed.

Hence, under all the security means, it’s based on Debian Linux and utilizes the Gnome desktop, so the interface is clear and user-friendly.

However, the Tails isn’t for everyone, but this corner OS does give you fantastic peace of mind if you’ve been fussing about all the concerned privacy-trampling laws being offered these days.

To Whom it is advised?

Tails, short for “The Amnesic Incognito Live System,” is for online privacy and anonymity enthusiasts.

This is perfect for journalists, activists, and people in hostile circumstances who need to secure their digital identity and communications. Live OS Tails runs from a USB stick or DVD and leaves no trace on the machine after shutdown.

It relays all internet connections through Tor, improving online privacy. Its concentration on secrecy and anonymity may not be convenient for ordinary computer chores or users who need persistent storage and a large choice of software applications.

Tails is suggested for safe internet access on public or untrusted computers.

Key Features:-

• Stream isolation
• The onion circuit’s graphical front
• Network manager

7. Fedora

Core Features:

Fedora is not based on any additional Linux distros and has been created by its community wholly from hurt.

In case, if you’re a developer, you can provide the distribution too. Now you must be thinking what makes Fedora so unique? And the answer is undoubtedly its community support.

The association is very active, and you can get answers to your problems pretty fast on their community forum.

As developers build it, their main focus is on building an OS that will have a very sarcastic edge software container.

Thus, a package that is yet unavailable in other Linux distributions will be assembled and available for Fedora.

To Whom it is advised?

Fedora is highly recommended for users who are interested in experiencing the latest advancements in Linux and open-source software.

It’s particularly well-suited for developers, technology enthusiasts, and students in the field of computer science, as Fedora is known for its innovation and incorporation of cutting-edge features.

The distribution is closely aligned with the Red Hat ecosystem, making it a valuable platform for those who work with or intend to work with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL).

Fedora’s frequent release cycle and updates may not be ideal for users seeking long-term stability or those new to Linux, as it often requires familiarity with system management and troubleshooting.

Additionally, its strong community support and commitment to free software principles make Fedora an appealing choice for open-source advocates.

Key Features:-

• Dynamic firewall.
• Better end-user software.
• Virtual desktop support.

8. Elementary OS

Core Features:

If you’re finding a popular Linux distro that you can easily use from the image of a nerdy hacker type bashing away at a terminus interface.

It’s the most beautiful Linux distro around, with a custom similar to that of macOS.

This operating system’s excellent desktop environment is known as Pantheon and is complied with by Gnome.

Well, the most advanced version of Elementary OS is named Loki. It is a bit more attractive and elegant than its forerunner, Freya, and has its statement installer UI called AppCenter.

Well, it’s a delightfully easy way to install apps outside the terminal, which is usable.

Moreover, Elementary OS does, come bundled with the Epiphany browser, the Geary email client, and a few essential ‘tool’ apps.

Thus you may be required to add more extra programs, but this is simple to do using the combined AppCenter, which includes paid programs created especially for the OS such as Quilter for aspiring writers or Spice-Up for creating presentations.

Elementary OS Class supports the trouble of purchasing and downloading additional apps.

To Whom it is advised?

For those switching from macOS or preferring a comparable look and feel, Elementary OS is a great solution for users who value a clean, intuitive, and attractive user interface.

Beginners and casual users who want a simple computer experience would like it. The operating system is suitable for online browsing, document processing, and media consumption because to its simple appearance and core features.

Power users and those who need substantial customization may find Elementary OS less flexible than other Linux variants.

Users concerned about software ethics and privacy also like its curated AppCenter, which promotes privacy-respecting and open-source apps.

Key Features:-

• Easy image resizing
• Keyboard shortcuts cheat sheet
• Bold use of color

9. Kali Linux

Core Features:

If you are looking for Linux for ethical hacking, then there is no better Linux distro than Kali Linux.

Honestly, there is no additional distribution that can level up Kali Linux. The distribution appears with a bundle of Kali Linux Hacking tools that one can apply to ethically hack any system.

These devices are grouped in different verticals such as wireless attacks, stress testing, web applications, vulnerability scanning tools, exploitation tools, and many more.

Hence, Kali Linux is based on the Debian Testing branch, and most packages are shipped from the Debian repository.

Moreover, in the early versions, updates were not presented accurately.

But, in the most advanced release, it has partnered with Offensive Security and Cloudflare to ensure that all updates are administered reliably.

Thus one of the most essential advantages of Kali Linux is that it can be placed on different systems such as Chromebooks, Raspberry, Pi BeagleBone, and many more.

Further, with the Kali NetHunter package, users can utilize it on Android smartphones.

Some advantages of using Kali Linux are daily rolling updates, analyzed and tested hacking tools, great learning resources, and a strong Debian base.

Kali Linux is the most extensively utilized distribution for penetration testing.

Well, the amount of built-in penetration tools makes it the most comfortable for ethical hackers.

Aside from being an excellent penetration testing program, it also provides knowledge scope for modern ethical hackers. Moreover, it has an existing community and presents proper documentation.

To Whom it is advised?

Kali Linux targets cybersecurity experts, ethical hackers, and IT security researchers. It suits penetration testing, network security evaluations, and forensic investigations.

Kali is ideal for vulnerability analysis and cybersecurity research due to its extensive hacking and security testing features. Kali Linux is not intended for general-purpose computing or Linux beginners owing to its specialized nature and complex utilities.

It’s best for computer security experts or cybersecurity students and practitioners.

Kali Linux may be too complicated for casual users and those who want a stable, simple operating system for regular operations.

Key Features:-

• Full customization
• Full disk encryption
• Metapackages

10. MX Linux

Core Features:

It is a “midweight” popular Linux distro, MX Linux works like a dream yet on lower-end PCs, and its reasonably least starting setup makes it preference and most desired among developers.

Well, we can say that it is a default XFCE desktop background that may appear a little dated as compared to more famous Linux distros like Ubuntu.

Still, there’s something to be said for keeping things simple.

Thus the major stuff is never more than a few clicks away in MX Linux. Therefore the taskbar serves up a list of MX Tools, which combines essential things like PC preservation and setup options for your system quality and keyboard.

Hence, the base installation of MX Linux comprises a solid group of packages that combine Firefox, VLC, LibreOffice, and GIMP, and you can, of course, get more by the Synaptic Package Manager, which will lead you to the packing containers for MX Linux.

To Whom it is advised?

Users wanting a lightweight, stable, and easy-to-use OS should try MX Linux. MX Linux’s resource-efficiency and full desktop experience make it ideal for older or weaker hardware.

Its simple interface and utilities make it suitable for novices yet provide seasoned Linux users enough control.

Its combination of Debian stability plus MX and antiX community applications and modifications makes it a solid daily computing system.

MX Linux’s stability and simplicity may turn off customers who want the latest applications or features.

MX Linux has strong community support, making it a wonderful alternative for those who value a friendly and helpful user environment.

Key Features:-

• One-click enabling event sound.
• Hibernation is now enabled by default.
• Easy and flexible installation.

Conclusion

We have already stated that no such best or perfect distribution is available.

In this article, we will tell you the best distros of 2024, but as a newcomer, a completely terminated environment is a more relaxed start.

Depending on what you need a Linux OS for, you can select one of the above and begin your learning from thereon.

Hence, here in this post, we have mentioned the list of the 10 popular Linux distros in 2024 that will help you manage your daily tasks.