Rating of the best Linux distributions: which one is better. Linux operating systems for different tasks
Linux is a popular free operating system for computers and laptops. It's ideal for a variety of standard tasks, as well as for something more special, like creating games or programming. It is noteworthy that this operating system has a huge number of different images - both those that in their structure resemble a regular command line through which all actions must be performed, and those that are no different from regular Windows in terms of convenience.
In addition to diversity, Linux has another undeniable advantage - almost no common viruses affect it. This is due to the variability of the system - it is impossible to write a malicious program if it is not clear what exactly it should do. Naturally, for complete security you will have to configure some programs and tools, but the result will be impressive.
This is a very important point. The average user will not need any specialized system image designed for designers or programmers. And the latter may not be enough for a regular distribution without additional bells and whistles. Therefore, it is important to immediately decide what exactly you want to get from the download. This will determine what exactly is worth looking for.
When choosing, you should also pay attention to the comments and description. It is important to know that most builds have a lot of bugs that make them difficult to use. Therefore, if there is a lot of negativity in the comments to the distribution, you should not download it. More nerves will be wasted. Many, moreover, require professional setup, which should also be taken into account.
Standard distributions without bells and whistles
These include the three main and most popular, but at the same time the most average. For special features, you should look for something special, but if you find it, there will be no price for such a distribution.
Debian. The most stable build of all existing ones. But at the same time, it is also the most outdated of all possible ones. The Debian development team numbers hundreds of people. But updates are released extremely rarely - once every few years. Therefore, Debian users are often left without the latest programs and components. But it has practically no errors. If you don’t need anything more serious than working in text editors and surfing the Internet, this is the best solution.
Ubuntu. Completely turns the previous approach on its head. Updates occur very frequently and with amazing stability. But with the same stability, these updates contain software bugs that make using this build impossible for an inexperienced user. Because, as they say, you need to “finish it with a file,” that is, correct errors yourself. But such practice will help you get better at computer art.
CentOS. Essentially the same as Ubuntu. But it is better suited for system administration and is very often used for servers. Therefore, a person who knows how and loves to crash in CentOS will be in great demand in the computer labor market. Because it is difficult to understand it, and there are not enough specialists.
The best distribution of 2016
However, in addition to the standard and, so to speak, basic distributions described above, there are a huge number of others. If you choose a random assembly among them, it may not end well. Wasted nerves and time, for example. However, every year, lists of the best builds are compiled that can captivate any computer enthusiast. We recommend visiting the site distrowatch.com and see a more or less real picture of the popularity of various distributions. So, in the version of this site, the most popular distribution for a long time has been Linux Mint, which is based on the equally famous Ubuntu.
This build is a slightly redesigned Chromium OS, which has been remade to fit the Ubuntu base. It seems to be created specifically for laptops - its beautiful, but not overloaded interface and stable operation make the device's battery last much longer. You can run any software for Ubuntu on it if you use Synaptic and Gdebi, as well as all programs from the Google extension store.
At the same time, the Cube does not require serious technical capabilities from. Therefore, it will run even on fairly old machines. It only needs 512 megabytes of RAM, 1 gigahertz of processor performance and 4 gigabytes of hard drive.
However, Cube Linux has its drawbacks. For example, it loads somewhat slower than other distributions. It also has a not entirely user-friendly application menu. But you can get used to it.
This will probably be the best build for those who just want to switch from Windows to Linux. Its interface subtly resembles Microsoft products, which will allow former Windows users to feel at one with Linux. This operating system will be an excellent transition point for any user. It has almost all the Linux features hidden under the visual shell of Windows.
During installation, along with ChaletOS, a pack of necessary and useful programs is installed so that the user does not have to look for them later. These programs and tools will make it easier to set up and use the system. Essentially, helping to “move” to Linux.
However, you need to remember that this distribution appeared only this year, so errors and shortcomings are possible. Although its convenience and advantages can overcome minor problems.
This is a professional distribution aimed exclusively at activities related to multimedia functions. Here you can find everything the soul of a designer, musician or other creative people desires. All the best programs that are aimed at this type of activity are collected in Ubuntu Studio.
It is noteworthy that the distribution kit itself is not demanding on the computer and “eats” quite a few resources. Therefore, everything that is not spent on it can be used to run multimedia programs.
Don't assume that this distribution is not too different from regular builds. It’s better not to install it just like that, but only if you are professionally involved in something related to multimedia programs.
This build is many steps ahead of its competitors in terms of convenience and customization flexibility. However, it also requires sufficient literacy in Linux distributions, because it needs to be properly configured once. But after that it will work stably for many years. But if you have no experience, but want to figure out what kind of beast Linux is, you can install Arch and study it inside and out.
Immediately after installing the operating system, the user... There will be nothing. He will have to independently find the desktop and all the programs for the operating system. Moreover, you will have to do everything manually - you won’t have to wait for any automatic action. This apparent minus ultimately turns into a big plus - you can customize your computer 100% for yourself.
It is noteworthy that updates continue continuously. As soon as a new version of the software is released, Arch will update it immediately. And it has an extremely large number of applications and tools. Almost every program that generally works in Linux can, in most cases, be found in its repository.
Simple, but at the same time convenient and functional, this distribution will captivate both novice Linux users and professionals. It can be considered one of the best if something specific is not required from the computer. Deepin Linux has an intuitive interface, which at the same time does not have anything superfluous.
Its basis is the usual Debian, but with a uniquely designed desktop, which is divided into three types - modern, aimed at former Mac OS users, created specifically for those moving from Windows 7, as well as for fans of the “old school” in the form of Windows XP .
It’s worth noting right away that Deepin Linux comes with a lot of built-in programs that will be useful to most users. Here you can find both office applications and entertainment or educational ones. This system has its own “store” of free and not so free applications.
Let's face it, Linux can overwhelm almost any complexity for new users. But then, it is not Linux that brings this complexity, it is most likely the “newness” factor that causes such feelings.
This article is especially for those who have no idea what else you can use on your computer instead of Windows or Mac OS.
The best distributions for new users
Please remember that this is a list and is in no particular order. The main criteria for compiling this list are ease of installation out of the box, ease of use and availability of software packages.
If you've ever been interested in Linux on the Internet, then it's very likely that you've already come across . Ubuntu is one of the leading Linux distributions. And it's almost the perfect distro to start your Linux journey with.
Ubuntu has been labeled as Linux for the people. This is because Ubuntu has already put a lot of effort into universal usability. Ubuntu doesn't require you to be a prodigy. It breaks the concept of the Linux line - for programmers, and this is one of the main points.
Ubuntu offers a very convenient installation procedure. The installer simply says, “in what language do you want to install me?” You can even try Ubuntu before you start the installation procedure. The installer provides simple options:
- Erase disk and install Ubuntu
- Installing Ubuntu next to the existing OS (a choice is given at each startup to select the OS to boot).
- Setting up sections for users who know what they are doing.
Initial tip: Choose the second option if you are not sure what to do.
The user interface in Ubuntu is called Unity. This is a very simple desktop shell. Launch and favorite applications in the dock on the left side (the so-called “Dash”) and search for applications, which is carried out by clicking on the Super button (Windows) or by clicking on the Ubuntu logo. It couldn't be simpler, could it?
There is no hassle in installing drivers in Ubuntu, which comes with a hardware detector that detects, downloads and installs the optimal drivers for your PC. Moreover, the installed system comes with all the basic software such as music player, video player, office suite and other useful programs.
Ubuntu has great documentation and public support. The Ubuntu and Ask Ubuntu forums provide significant quality support on almost every aspect related to Ubuntu. And it is very likely that any question you want to ask may already be answered by someone.
If you decide to install Ubuntu, then you can download this distribution on the official website.
Linux Mint Cinnamon
Most computer users are Windows users. And when a Windows user gets Linux, there is a fair amount of 'unlearning' that the user must go through. A huge number of operations have been recorded in our muscle memory. For example, the mouse goes to the bottom left corner of the screen (Start), you probably want to launch the application every time. I can only recommend a distribution that alleviates all these problems on Linux, and half the battle is won. Look at .
Zorin OS is an Ubuntu-based distribution with a highly polished Linux distribution that is well suited for users coming from Windows. Although almost every Linux distribution can be used by everyone, some people are very uncomfortable with seeing someone else's desktop, and Zorin OS will make this transition easier for you.
Package managers at first seem like something supernatural to Linux newbies. That's why Zorin OS comes with a huge (and I mean really huge) list of pre-installed software. Everything you need is already installed in Zorin OS.
Zorin OS comes with an amazing theme changing feature. It offers some heavy customization options with presets to make your OS look like Windows 7, XP, 2000 or even Mac.
These features make Zorin OS the best Linux distro for beginners, right?
Go to the official website to download the latest version of Zorin OS.
Since we've looked at distributions for Windows users, let's look at something for MacOS users. very quickly rose in the rankings, and is now always included in the list of the best distributions, all thanks to its aesthetic essence. Inspired by the look of MacOS, Elementary OS is one of the most beautiful Linux distributions.
Elementary OS is another Ubuntu-based distribution, which means that the operating system itself is undoubtedly stable. Elementary OS comes with the Pantheon desktop environment, and you can immediately notice the similarities with MacOS. This is an advantage for MacOS users who are moving to Linux, as they will feel very comfortable with this distribution, and it really makes the process of coping with the change easier.
The menu is very simple and customizable according to user preferences. The operating system is not intrusive, so you can really focus on your work. It comes with very little software pre-installed, so any new user won't be distracted by the huge bells and whistles, but will have everything they need out of the box. For additional software, Elementary OS provides a neat AppCenter that is accessible and easy to use. All in one place. You can get all the software you want and update in just a few clicks.
You should try it. You can download Elementary OS on the official website.
A large number of people who come to Linux are looking to revitalize old computers. With the Windows 10 operating system, many computers that had decent specs just a few years ago have become incompetent. And if you're looking for a distribution that will resurrect your old computer, then look towards Linux Mate.
Linux Mint Mate is a very lightweight, not demanding, but still polished distribution. It can work smoothly on weak computers. The desktop environment won't bring you bells and bells. But it is in no way inferior in functionality to any other desktop environment. The operating system is not intrusive and allows you to work productively without loss of quality.
Again, Linux Mint Mate is based on Ubuntu and has the benefit of Ubuntu's huge solid software repository base. It comes with a minimum number of essentials that are pre-installed. Easy installation of drivers and management of system settings is very accessible even for beginners.
You can run Linux Mint Mate even if you have 512 MB of RAM and 9 GB of free hard drive space (the more the better).
If you have already made your choice, then you can download Linux Mint Mate on the official website.
Before you say that you shouldn't guide a newbie to such a complex distribution as ArchLinux, listen to me first.
Arch is considered an expert distribution only because of its very complex installation procedure. Manajro and Arch Linux have a common origin. But they are largely different in every other way.
Has a very beginner friendly installation procedure. Many things are automated, such as driver installation using Hardware Detection. With Manjaro, you will forget about searching for manuals for installing drivers, which plagues many other Linux distributions. And even if you have questions, Manjaro has amazing community support.
Manjaro has its own software repository which maintains the latest software and this is one of the priorities for the users. One of the main differences between Arch and Manjaro is that Manjaro delays package releases to ensure that they are completely stable and will not cause regressions. You can also access the Arch User Repository on Manjaro, which has everything you need available.
There are a huge number of versions of Linux. Over the past month alone, more than 300 distributions have been noted on the DistroWatch.com website, and in the entire history of Linux there have been about 700 of them. How to choose among this abundance?
Two main criteria to pay attention to:
- Popularity of the distribution. The more popular your distribution, the easier it will be to find manuals for it on the Web. The large community means that you can easily get help on the distro's forums if you have any difficulties mastering it. Finally, the more widespread the distribution, the more applications and packages are ported for it. It’s better to choose popular solutions with a ready-made package base than to struggle with assembling from source code in some exotic distribution.
- The development team behind it. Naturally, it is better to pay attention to distributions supported by large companies like Canonical Ltd., Red Hat or SUSE, or distributions with large communities.
Please note that even the best distributions have analogues that are not much inferior to them. If you are somehow not satisfied with Lifehacker’s choice, you can try alternatives.
For those who have never used Linux - Linux Mint
New users who migrated from , should definitely install Linux Mint. Today it is the most popular Linux distribution. It is a very stable and easy to use system based on Ubuntu.
Linux Mint is equipped with an easy and intuitive interface (Cinnamon shell for modern computers and MATE for older machines) and a convenient application manager, so you will not have problems finding and installing programs.
Pros: simplicity, care for ordinary users. You don't need any specific knowledge to install and use Mint.
Minuses: a large amount of pre-installed software that may never be useful.
For those who want the latest software - Manjaro
It is a popular Linux distribution based on Arch. Arch is an incredibly powerful and feature-rich distribution, but its KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) philosophy, contrary to its name, makes it too difficult for beginners. Arch can only be installed via the command line.
Manjaro, unlike Arch, has a simple graphical installer and yet combines powerful Arch features such as AUR (Arch User Repository) and rolling release. AUR is the richest source of Linux packages. If any application is on Linux, it is probably already in the AUR. So in Manjaro you will always have the latest packages.
Manjaro comes with a variety of desktop shells to choose from: functional KDE, GNOME for tablet screens, Xfce, LXDE and more. Manjaro, you can be sure to be the first to receive the latest updates.
Pros: AUR, thanks to which you can install any application without unnecessary movements. Always the latest software.
Minuses: unique design of desktop shells. However, nothing prevents you from replacing it.
For home server - Debian
A home server can be useful for many purposes. For example, to store data and backups, download torrents, or arrange your own dimensionless .
Debian will do well on your home server. It is a stable and conservative distribution that became the basis for Ubuntu and many other Linux systems. Debian uses only the most proven packages, making it a good choice for a server.
Pros: stability and a large set of applications.
Minuses: the need to manually configure the distribution after installation.
For Media Center - Kodi
If you want to set up your own media server, choose Kodi. Strictly speaking, Kodi is not a distribution, but a full-featured media center player. You can install it on any Linux, but it is best to choose the Ubuntu + Kodi combination.
Kodi supports all types of video and audio files. It can play movies, music, and organize your photos. Kodi turns anyone into an all-in-one entertainment device.
Thanks to extensions, Kodi can download media files via torrents, track new seasons of your favorite TV series, and show videos from YouTube and other streaming services. In short, Kodi does it all.
In addition, Kodi is very beautiful and optimized for control from a remote control or Android device. You can easily customize Kodi's interface with a variety of visual skins.
Pros: a huge number of functions and convenient controls.
Minuses: The standard interface may not be to everyone's liking, but it is easy to replace.
For Desktop - Kubuntu
The KDE graphical environment is ideal for use on the desktop, and Kubuntu is the most popular KDE distribution. Like many other distributions, it's based on Ubuntu, which means you won't have any application compatibility issues.
Kubuntu is beautiful, functional and easy to customize. Even novice users can easily handle it. It's a stable and polished system that provides all the features you need for a home desktop PC.
Pros: a large selection of packages, a wonderful set of KDE applications and a huge number of interface settings.
Minuses: Kubuntu uses a stable version of KDE, which means that the latest features of this shell come here late. If you want to try out the latest KDE, KDE Neon is at your service.
For an old computer or netbook - Lubuntu
This version of Ubuntu is based on the LXDE shell, which is lightweight and resource-efficient. It is aimed at older or low-power machines. If you have a not-so-new computer or netbook lying around that can't handle Windows, you can do it by installing Lubuntu.
This Linux distribution consumes few system resources and can run on almost any configuration.
Pros: very fast and easy system. However, it supports the same packages and applications as its older sister Ubuntu.
Minuses: LXDE's appearance won't be to everyone's taste, but it's a small price to pay for performance.
Alternative: .
For tablet or convertible - Ubuntu
Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions on the desktop. As of version 17.10, Ubuntu ends support for the Unity shell and migrates to GNOME. And GNOME looks quite good on devices with touch screens. If you have a tablet and want to try installing Linux on it, try Ubuntu with GNOME.
Large GNOME interface elements, customizable gestures and extensions make Ubuntu a great system for touchscreens.
Pros: Ubuntu is a widespread distribution, which means you can easily find all the software you need. In addition, most Linux sites are dedicated specifically to Ubuntu.
Minuses: The GNOME shell is convenient, but at first it seems unusual.
For laptop - elementary OS
As the name suggests, this version of Linux is very simple. You won't have any problems mastering it. It runs easily on laptops and consumes battery slowly.
The interface of elementary OS is reminiscent of macOS, so it will be a pleasure to use for Mac fans. Animations, window decorations - everything here is so smooth and pretty that you can simply admire the system. However, behind the beautiful shell of elementary OS lies a full-fledged Linux that supports all the applications necessary for work.
Pros: beautiful interface, own indie app store.
Minuses: The Pantheon graphical shell, although it looks stylish, is not very functional.
The Linux.com website offered readers its version of the best distributions of the current year. However, for now this is not a statement of fact, but only a forecast based on a noticeable increase in the popularity of open solutions in both the corporate and consumer sectors.
1 Best Comeback: OpenSUSE
SUSE is one of the oldest developers of the Linux system. The company was founded a year after Linus Torvalds announced the creation of Linux. In fact, SUSE is even older than Red Hat.
Last year, the distribution developers made the most important decision for the development of the product - to bring openSUSE as close as possible to SUSE Linux Enterprise. Thus, openSUSE Leap is directly based on the SLE SP 1 codebase.
As a result of this step, openSUSE has become much more interesting for a potential user of a corporate system, since it will simplify the transition to it. But that is not all. The release of a special Tumbleweed distribution with continuous updates will allow you to stay up to date with the latest software.
Thus, the openSUSE user has the option of either running the stable version or installing the always up-to-date Tumbleweed. Thus, the solution has become truly universal.
2 Most Customizable Distro: Arch Linux
Arch Linux continues to outperform all other distributions in many ways. Therefore, it remains the choice of many experienced users.
It is an ideal choice for those who want to learn Linux. Since almost everything there is done manually, the user recognizes the structure of each operating system file.
Arch Linux is the most customizable distribution. It does not have “its own” desktop and default software set. After installation, the user receives only the “base” of the system, and does everything else independently. The result is a work environment that has everything you need and nothing you don't.
Arch Linux is the best of the releases with a continuous update cycle. The user can be sure that the most current versions of application software are installed on his system.
This distribution is also known for its excellent documentation. ArchWiki is one of the best sites for learning the Linux system.
In addition, Arch Linux is the richest repository. If the program runs on Linux, then it will almost certainly be found in the Arch User Repository.
3 The most beautiful distribution: Elementary OS
Different distributions are created for different purposes. Most often these are some technical features of the solution. The appearance of the desktop is a secondary matter.
The Elementary OS developers decided to try a different approach. Design is of utmost importance, and the reason for this is quite obvious - the system is created by designers. However, this concept has led to the fact that they choose for the system only applications that fit into the design of the original desktop. But you have to come to terms with this - the distribution is designed to be the most beautiful, not the most functional.
4 Best Debut: Solus
The distribution cannot complain about the lack of attention from users. Moreover, the attention is well deserved.
The system was created from scratch - not a derivative of Debian or Ubuntu. It's based on the Budgie desktop and features the same minimalism as Google Chrome OS.
Although, strictly speaking, this is not a new project at all. However, it was last year that it was revived under this name.
5 Best Cloud OS: Chrome OS
Chrome OS is not your typical Linux distribution. It is simply a browser based on the Linux operating system.
The solution is very convenient for daily use. It does not require maintenance, and the software is updated automatically without user intervention, since it is located on the server. A good choice for those who only need a computer for surfing the Internet.
6 Best Laptop OS: Ubuntu MATE
Most laptops do not have particularly high technical specifications. Therefore, “heavy” desktop environments are contraindicated for such devices - they not only consume a lot of system resources, but also quickly drain battery power.
A good choice for a laptop is Ubuntu MATE. It's a lightweight desktop, but it has all the bells and whistles you need for a pleasant work experience. System resources are spent on application programs, and not on supporting the graphical environment itself.
7 Best distro for older hardware: Lubuntu
If you have an old laptop or PC, then don't throw it away. Perhaps the Lubuntu system will breathe new life into it.
For now, this distribution uses the LXDE desktop, but future versions plan to use LXQt, a project resulting from the merger of LXDE and Razor Qt. Thus, Lubuntu is the best choice for legacy hardware.
8 Best Distro for IoT: Snappy Ubuntu Core
Snappy Ubuntu Core
This solution is the best Linux system for the Internet of Things. It will make it possible to turn almost all the equipment around us into smart devices: routers, coffee makers, unmanned aerial vehicles...
What makes the distribution attractive is its efficient update management and the ability to use containers to improve security. The last feature is extremely relevant, since the very concept of IoT implies special attention to countering information threats.
9 Best Desktop Distro: Linux Mint Cinnamon
Linux Mint Cinnamon
Linux Mint Cinnamon is a universal system, perfect for both desktop computers and powerful laptops. It is often called Mac OS X in the Linux world.
For quite a long time, the use of Linux Mint was associated with certain problems due to the instability of the Cinnamon working environment. But everything changed as soon as the decision was made to use Ubuntu LTS as the basis and focus exclusively on developing the graphical interface itself.
10 Best distribution for games: Steam OS
Games have always been the weak point of the Linux desktop. A significant portion of users decided to save Windows on their computer solely in order to be able to play.
Valve Software has decided to change this state of affairs. The Steam OS system allows you to run games on various platforms. The solution was brought to market at the end of last year.
11 Best Distro for Privacy: Tails
Observations of user actions are a real scourge of modern life. Privacy is slowly becoming a myth. Which led to the need for a system that ensures the confidentiality of information.
The best solution for this purpose: Tails. The distribution is based on Debian and offers the user tools to ensure complete anonymity on the Internet. This solution is so effective that the NSA considers it a serious threat to their mission.
12 Best Multimedia Distro: Ubuntu Studio
Along with games, support for multimedia content is a weak point of Linux. Almost all applications aimed at professional users run on either Windows or Mac OS X.
However, there are also plenty of decent programs for similar purposes for Linux. And all of them are collected in the Ubuntu Studio system. The system uses lightweight Xfce as a desktop, which allows you to direct maximum computer resources to support the operation of application programs.
13 Best Enterprise Distro: SLE/RHEL
Debian 8 with Numix icon theme If you want to deploy a server but can't afford to pay for SLE or RHEL, then there is nothing better than Debian or CentOS. Essentially, these systems are the gold standard of a community-built server.
The systems are supported long enough that users do not have to worry about upgrading the software. This additional advantage makes the systems attractive not only for home users, but also for small businesses.
15 Best Mobile System: Plasma Mobile
Despite the fact that the main mobile OS today is Android, some users would prefer to have a traditional Linux system with a familiar set of applications on their mobile device. Moreover, they believe that the distribution should be developed not by a company, but by an independent community.
A suitable solution for them is KDE Plasma Mobile. A corresponding solution is being prepared within the Kubuntu project.
16 Best Distro for ARM: Arch Linux ARM
Arch Linux ARM on Raspberry PI
The success of the Android mobile system has led to the emergence of a large number of ARM devices - from Raspberry Pi to Chromebooks and Nvidia Shield. There are also specialized distributions for ARM, but they are designed for specific hardware. Like, for example, Raspbian for Raspberry Pi.
And only Arch Linux ARM is a universal system that can be installed on any ARM device. And thanks to the Arch User Repository, many applications are available that are not available in other distributions.
UPD. If you are a beginner and don’t know which distribution to choose, then we recently published new material especially for you: .
Many of us have laptops or netbooks that have been around for a long time. They worked without problems with Windows XP or Vista, but the new versions of Microsoft's OS are no longer suitable for them. If, when you try to launch Windows 10, your laptop begins to creak strainedly, and fashionable flat tablet windows turn into a slideshow, do not rush to throw it away. Linux will help revive it.
Installing the system is not difficult, just follow. Just download the distribution kit from the official website, burn it to a flash drive or disk and boot your computer from this disk. By installing Linux, you will forget about the slowness of your old computer and problems with viruses and get an updated and supported system on your old hardware.
A few words about desktop environments, or shells. Roughly speaking, it is an interface that allows us to interact with Linux. The most popular shells are KDE, GNOME and Cinnamon, but for seasoned laptops and desktops it is better to choose something easier. These can be either Xfce or LXDE environments, or frame-based window managers such as Awesome and i3. They are more difficult to set up than full-fledged shells, but they can work on hardware where even LXDE fails.
1.Xubuntu
distroscreens.comXubuntu is the official flavor of the popular Ubuntu. With the difference that instead of the not very agile Unity, Xfce is used here. It is fast, yet functional and highly customizable desktop environment. Xubuntu is compatible with all Ubuntu applications and repositories.
processor with a frequency of 500 MHz, 512 MB of RAM, 7.5 GB of free hard disk space.
2. Lubuntu
distroscreens.com Another Ubuntu flavor, this time with Lxde. Designed for use on even older computers. Lxde is not as functional as Xfce, but it is unpretentious and can run on almost any configuration.
Minimum system requirements: processor - from 266 MHz, 128 MB of RAM, 3 GB of free hard disk space.
3. Bodhi Linux
distroscreens.com A simple and fast distribution based on Ubuntu. Uses the lightweight Moksha windowing framework containing Enlightenment 17.
Minimum system requirements: processor - from 500 MHz, 128 MB of RAM, 4 GB of free hard disk space.
4. Debian
arstechnica.com Debian is known for being stable and conservative. What else does an old computer need? This is one of the oldest and most popular distributions - Ubuntu is based on it. Debian, unlike the next distribution on the list, has a convenient .NET installer. With a lightweight desktop environment, Debian will fit on any hardware.
Minimum system requirements: processor - 1 GHz, 256 MB of RAM, 10 GB of free hard disk space.
5.Arch
in8sworld.net Arch is not the best choice for those who have not dealt with Linux before and just want to install the system. “Naked” Arch is installed over the Internet, via the command line - this will infuriate anyone.
However, Arch is good and damn fast. Combined with Xfce, Lxde or, better yet, tile-based window managers like Awesome or i3, Arch will perk up any laptop. And its extensive AUR repository gives you access to a wealth of Linux applications with one-click installation.
Minimum system requirements: any i686 or x86_64 processor, 128 MB of RAM, 800 MB of free hard disk space.
6. Manjaro
distroscreens.com If you don't want to bother with installing Arch, try Manjaro. This is a fork of Arch with a convenient installer and a lot of its own features. Comes with Xfce for older computers and KDE for modern ones. Additionally, Manjaro flavors with other environments are supported by the community.
If you feel like Manjaro comes with a lot of unnecessary stuff, you can use Manjaro-Architect and customize the system to suit your needs. Arch goodies like Rolling release and AUR are included.
Minimum system requirements: 1 GHz processor, 384 MB RAM, 10 GB free hard disk space.
7. Puppy Linux
puppylinux.com 10 GB disk space, 5 GB, 3 GB... If you think that's a bit much for Linux, try Puppy. This distribution will take up only 200 MB. At the same time, Puppy Linux is a full-fledged system with its own programs and repositories.
Minimum system requirements: processor - 333 MHz, 64 MB of RAM, 200 MB of free hard disk space.
8. SliTaz
slitaz.org An even more compact distribution aimed at running entirely from RAM. When expanded it takes up about 100 MB, the Live CD image is less than 40 MB.
Minimum system requirements: any i686 or x86_64 processor, 128 MB of RAM, 100 MB of free hard disk space.
9. Damn Small Linux
damnsmalllinux.org Damn little Linux, as its name suggests. Despite the fact that the distribution fits into 50 MB, the developers managed to squeeze in the XMMS player, Dillo browser, Ted text editor, Xpaint graphics editor, Xpdf viewer, emelFM file manager and much more.
Minimum system requirements: 486DX processor, 16 MB RAM, 50 MB free hard disk space.
Finally
By installing any lightweight Linux distribution, you will get an updated and modern system on your old device. You can comfortably listen to music, view video files and edit documents.
However, this will not solve memory problems, for example when working with heavy web pages in the browser. So here are a couple more recommendations.
On very old computers, you can use lightweight browsers like Midori or Dillo. Or disable flash animation and scripts in Firefox or Chrome.
Use lightweight applications instead of web services in the browser. To save memory, YouTube videos can be watched in VLC or Mpv. You can connect to Spotify through Clementine. Connect your social media accounts to Pidgin, and instead of the Gmail web interface, you should try the Geary email client.
