what is your favorite linux distro ?
what is your favorite linux distro ?
On Arch, most software is straightforward like pacman -Sy package_name. To find a package, use pacman with keywords or switch to the AUR for alternatives. Jar files aren’t universal installers; they’re Java apps that work similarly across distributions if set up correctly. Appimages, flatpaks, and similar formats are gaining popularity as consistent package types. Many apps now move to these universal formats, making installation easier. Arch offers up-to-date releases and a vibrant community, with clear documentation that guides most users to the Arch Wiki. It features a central user repository (AUR) and supports community-driven projects, including specialized packages like drivers. You can select individual packages and dependencies, which I find much smoother than Ubuntu’s setup. Compared to Ubuntu, Arch’s documentation is more current and active, while Ubuntu’s community tends to be less engaged. Unlike Ubuntu, Arch doesn’t have a central repository; instead, it depends on maintained repositories that you need to locate. PPA packages are pre-built, whereas AUR packages require compilation. This setup limits flexibility but ensures stability for many users.
Choose Arch for your desktop, CentOS for your servers, Alpine if you prefer simplicity, or Debian for more complex setups in Docker images. Use Alpine for lightweight needs or Debian when things get more demanding. Installing packages is straightforward across any distribution—whether it's apt, pacman, or yum. Java applications run using the same commands regardless of the distro, since they operate within the JVM. I favor Arch mainly for its continuous updates and the vast AUR repository, offering nearly everything you require. It’s much simpler than managing PPAs. I also run Arch on Crostini within ChromeOS.
It seems like a unique choice, but the simplest option I've discovered for beginners is Zorin. I haven't actually used the command line once (just experimented), and it functions perfectly out of the box. If I wanted to, I believe I could shut down the entire operating system using a USB drive, though I haven't tried yet (needs better USB and ports). It's great for older computers I needed to install it on. Could serve as a daily driver, but I'm not there yet. Also, it's super easy to connect online and install anywhere you want. If anyone has recommendations for other systems worth trying, let me know—I'm eager to learn!
Ubuntu was the initial distribution I tried and it remains my favorite. Everything with a screen receives the most recent LTS desktop version, while those without get the latest LTS Server image. Whenever I need to set up a Linux virtual machine on my main computer, Ubuntu is the go-to choice. It’s straightforward to use and I rely heavily on core tools like apt and systemctl. I also appreciate how simple it is to install custom drivers for any unusual hardware components. Used to switch between distros, but once Ubuntu 12.04 launched I fell in love with Unity and decided to stay.
I chose Debian because it’s what I use most. My top *desktop* choice is Manjaro with KDE, but I’m looking for a terminal app that works well with scaling. Alpine is the OS I prefer for containers, matching what most people use.
to boost your chrome OS you've explored several options I've found helpful: 1) chromebrew, a tool that unlocks many useful utilities
2) the "linux apps" option, essentially a virtual debian environment that supports docker and GUI apps
3) crouton, a set of handy scripts functioning like an advanced chroot for running multiple distros from the same kernel
it performed well on my old chromebook before the linux apps release, and I used x11 during a university project. I switched to the VM later for systemd and docker support but it still worked smoothly and quickly.