Choosing the Right Linux Distro After Ubuntu: A Comprehensive Guide

After experiencing the convenience and compatibility of Ubuntu, many users might wonder what other distributions (distributions) to explore or stick with. Linux distributions share a common foundation, with many similarities in terms of the underlying system components. This article aims to provide insights on how to choose an optimal distribution and why Ubuntu remains a top choice for many users.

Why Stick with Ubuntu?

Regardless of your background, my advice is consistent: stop distro-hopping and start diving deeper into the Linux system. The core components of the system are nearly identical across distributions, making the command line and system structure consistent. Programs, from terminal tools to graphical applications, are standardized and interchangeable.

When you switch a distribution with the intention of changing the experience, you are only touching the surface. Instead, you should focus on customizing your system and learning the intricacies beneath. This is something I have done extensively with Ubuntu, from 2006 to the present, by customizing the system and gaining a deep understanding of its inner workings.

Some recommend trying Arch Linux, which is an excellent choice for those looking to dive into the nitty-gritty of Linux. Installing it in a virtual machine can provide a wealth of valuable insights into how Linux systems operate.

Why Choose Ubuntu over Other Distributions?

Among the mainstream distributions, Ubuntu has emerged as the most balanced option in terms of user-friendliness, performance, and popularity. While other distributions like Debian, Fedora, and openSUSE have their own merits, Ubuntu stands out for its combination of features.

Debian: The Trade-offs of Simplicity

Debian is known for its stability and reliability, but it often falls short in terms of user-friendliness. Debian's default desktop environments, such as Debian-XFCE, lack some basic user-friendly features. For example, font anti-aliasing is often not enabled by default, leading to a visually unpleasant experience. Additionally, features like "tap to click" for laptop users are not enabled by default, requiring users to look for solutions in documentation or user forums.

Fedora: The Pros and Cons

Fedora is a solid distribution overall, offering a good balance of features and stability. However, it lacks a robust GUI package manager like Synaptic, which is a significant drawback for many users. Moreover, Fedora's dnf/yum packaging system requires users to switch to apt/dpkg, which can be a personal preference issue. Furthermore, Fedora's firewall application (Firewalld) is not user-friendly and can be confusing for new users, while Ubuntu/Debian encourages the use of iptables for better firewall management.

openSUSE: The KDE-centric Approach

openSUSE is a great choice for users interested in the KDE desktop environment, but it is inferior to Debian and Ubuntu in terms of tool robustness and performance. It offers new features, but at the cost of overall system performance and a robust toolset.

Mint: The Ubuntu Derivative

Mint is a popular derivative of Ubuntu, known for its user-friendly interface and ease of use. While I have not extensively tested Mint, its high popularity suggests that it is a very good distribution. If you are satisfied with Ubuntu, there is no need to switch to Mint, as it offers a similar experience but with a polished interface.

Test Drive and Decide

Instead of switching to a completely different distribution, it is recommended to test drive the ones that interest you first. Once you have a good understanding of your needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision about which distribution to use. This approach will help you find the right balance between user-friendliness and system performance.

In conclusion, while there are many great Linux distributions out there, Ubuntu remains a solid choice for its user-friendly interface, performance, and popularity. However, exploring other distributions can broaden your understanding and provide new insights into the Linux ecosystem. Happy exploring!