Operating Systems

Linux Distros

Note that these are specifically distros that are user-friendly and easy to set up. Distros such as Arch, Kali Linux, Gentoo, etc. are difficult to set up for beginners.

There are also plenty of other more niche distros that meet specific use cases such as extra security, installing on a USB drive, and using much older hardware. Many other distros exist, these are simply a list of some great, user-friendly distros that will work for most people. The beauty of Linux is the amount of choice you get!

• standard
  • fixed release
    • GNOME: Ubuntu
      • atomic: Bluefin / Fedora Silverblue
    • KDE: Kubuntu / KDE Neon
      • atomic: Aurora / Fedora Kinoite
    • Cinnamon: Linux Mint
    • COSMIC: Pop!_OS
    • desktop agnostic: Fedora / Debian
  • rolling release: EndeavourOS / Manjaro / openSUSE

EndeavourOS and Manjaro are both Arch-based distros that aim to make installing Arch easier and more user-friendly.

• gaming: Bazzite / Nobara / SteamOS

Deepin is also a good distro with great aesthetics, but is more focused at a Chinese audience. It’s a great option if you want a Chinese language distro.

Custom Android ROMs

• /e/OS
• GrapheneOS
• LineageOS
• CalyxOS

Other

• boot drive
  • only one ISO: Rufus / Etcher
  • multiple ISOs: Ventoy

Ventoy can store multiple ISOs on the boot drive, and you don’t need to reformat the boot drive every time you want to add a new ISO! Also, you’re able to use a Ventoy drive as a regular USB stick as well to store regular data.