When we talk about Linux, many think that we are referring to a single operating system, when in reality there are several Linux systems that often share only the kernel. These systems are called Linux distributions or "Distro", which include the Linux kernel (the same for all) and various other software for the interface, for installing and starting programs, for compatibility with the various hardware elements and to surf the Internet (these elements change with each distro).
In this guide, also to have valid alternatives to replace Windows 7 (if you do not want Windows 10), we will show you which are the 10 most used Linux Distros in the world, also showing you the various strengths and weaknesses of each, so you can choose the one that convinces you more (also for stability and functionality ).
READ ALSO: Best Linux Distributions for all computers and needs
The 10 most used Linux Distros in the world
Below we have collected the most downloaded Linux distros, trying to show you the strengths and weaknesses of each of them. Whichever distro we choose we will be on the safe side, since there are simple distributions to use for beginners and distributions dedicated to more experienced users.MX Linux
Surprisingly, at the top of the list of the most used distributions, MX Linux stands out, a distro based on the stable branch of Debian born from the collaboration between the antiX team and the MEPIS Linux team, who worked together to create a fast, responsive, stable system in every situation is easy enough to use for those who already chew a little Linux. Currently the only graphics environment officially supported is Xfce in a customized version.
Manjaro Linux
In second place in the ranking of the most used distros we find Manjaro Linux, a fast system based on ArchLinux from which, however, it takes all the simplest features to make the system usable by any type of user (both beginner and expert). The current version is based on the Xfce graphical environment, but we can install and use any other type of environment (KDE, GNOME and MATE).
Linux Mint
The easiest distribution to use for beginners is definitely Linux Mint, based on Ubuntu but with significant improvements in terms of graphics and compatibility such as to make it very simple to configure and use. The reference desktop environment is Cinnamon, but we can also use Xfce and MATE.
On this system we can read our guide Linux Mint the easy and elegant operating system, to be used also live and on USB .
Debian
The mother of many Linux distros is Debian, from which all use the package distribution system and system logic. This makes it clear when it is easy to customize Debian even from scratch, so that everyone can create their own system and choose every single element. This also means that it is slightly more difficult to use: we recommend Debian only to experienced users and Linux experts, since almost every problem will have to be solved by the terminal.
Debian supports all the graphical environments currently available for Linux, without any real preference.
Ubuntu
The most famous and well-known distribution is without a doubt Ubuntu, for many the first real distribution within the reach of all users. By focusing on this distribution we will have great support during installation (with one of the largest documentation and wikis for every type of problem), an easily customizable and responsive system in all circumstances.
The reference desktop environment is GNOME, but we can also install Unity, a proprietary 3D graphic environment and all other known environments (also available as separate versions of the operating system).
In this regard, we can read our Linux Ubuntu 19.10 guide to be installed for free on all computers .
elementary OS
The most beautiful distribution to see is undoubtedly elementary OS, which combines elements of MacOS with typical elements of Ubuntu and Debian (from which it derives), to offer a fast distro, easy to use and customize.
The official graphic environment is Pantheon, tailor-made for this distro together with other dedicated programs.
We talked about this system in our Elementary OS article : the easiest and fastest operating system to use .
Solus
A very particular Linux distribution is Solus, built from scratch (it is not derived from any other distro) and tailor-made for the common everyday user. The official graphic environment Budgie closely resembles Windows, from which it takes inspiration for most of the system functions; in addition to Budgie you can also install GNOME and MATE.
Fedora
Another very famous distribution and supported by one of the most famous companies in this area (Red Hat Linux) is Fedora, which boasts an independent operating system, carefully developed, fast and responsive on any computer. The graphical environment of reference is GNOME, but exactly like Debian we can install any other graphical environment (KDE, MATE, Xfce etc.).
Zorin OS
If we are looking for a Linux distro that is very similar to Windows we can try Zorin OS, which boasts great graphic attention to every detail, very good stability and a simplified package management system (derived from Ubuntu and Debian). As graphical environments we can use both GNOME and Xfce. Zorin OS is one of the recommended systems to replace Windows 7, together with Manjaro
deepin
Another very particular distribution that we can try is deepin, based on Debian (therefore fast and stable) and with a dedicated graphic environment called Deepin Desktop Environment, which recalls many elements of MacOS and Windows 10.
Conclusions
In the ranking of the most used distributions in the world, it emerges that the simplest or easiest systems are not always at the top since, once you have learned the rudiments of Linux, it is natural to try all the distributions to learn new things on a deeply different system from Windows and Mac.In another guide, we told you about the easiest to learn and easy to use Linux versions .
If instead we are looking for a distribution suitable for an old PC with 2GB of RAM or less, we invite you to read our article on the best Linux distro for old PCs and netbooks .
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