We all know Ubuntu is a top-notch Linux distribution, but did you know there are some fantastic alternatives out there? If you’re up for a change or just want to explore what else the Linux world has to offer, you’re in for a treat! In this article on Naijaknowhow, we’ll dive into the best Ubuntu alternatives that can bring a fresh twist to your Linux journey.
There are those lightweight performers! You know, the ones that are perfect for older hardware or folks who love a lightning-fast and efficient experience. They are all about doing more with less. They keep things streamlined, snappy, and won’t hog all your system resources. If you’re all about speed and efficiency, you may want to keep reading.
Who doesn’t appreciate a visually stunning desktop? While Ubuntu itself looks great, these alternatives take aesthetics to a whole new level. They turn your Linux experience into a visual feast. If you’re someone who wants their desktop to look as good as it feels, you’ll definitely want to check out these visually striking Ubuntu alternatives. So, let’s get started.
List of the Best Ubuntu Alternatives to Use on Linux OS
For all the power users and customization fanatics out there, Ubuntu alternatives that focus on flexibility and control are your go-to options. They give you a variety of software choices, advanced system configuration options, and repositories galore. With these alternatives, you can tweak your Linux environment to match your wildest dreams.
1. Artix Linux
Artix Linux is a versatile distribution that draws its foundations from the renowned Arch Linux. What sets it apart is its implementation of alternative init systems like OpenRC, runit, s6, suite66, or dinit, as opposed to the widely used systemd. This grants users a great deal of flexibility and freedom in tailoring their system’s behavior to their specific needs and preferences.
Remarkably, Artix Linux maintains compatibility with packages from the extensive Arch Linux repositories, as well as those from derivative distributions. This means that users can leverage on various software options, even those explicitly designed to work with systemd, thanks to Artix Linux’s reliance on the efficient and powerful pacman package manager.
2. Kali Linux
Kali Linux stands as a purpose-driven Linux distribution that has been designed with the sole intention of catering to the needs of penetration testing and ethical hacking enthusiasts. Developed on the sturdy foundation of Debian, it emerges as an operating system that has extensive toolkit to empower security professionals and enthusiasts alike.
With a passionate and dedicated team of top-notch experts in the field of cybersecurity, Kali Linux continues to receive unwavering support and meticulous maintenance, ensuring it remains at the forefront of cutting-edge features and advancements in the realm of security. It is considered one of the best Ubuntu alternatives for Linux OS.
As a result, Kali Linux has established itself as a reliable and go-to platform for individuals seeking to engage in responsible and ethical hacking practices, equipping them with a robust set of tools and utilities to assess, secure, and fortify digital systems. This makes it an indispensable asset in the arsenal of those committed to safeguarding digital environments.
3. Kubuntu
Kubuntu is a fantastic operating system that brings together the best of both worlds: the rock-solid foundation of Ubuntu and the stunning KDE Plasma Desktop environment. As an official Ubuntu flavor, Kubuntu benefits from the same underlying system as Ubuntu, ensuring a high level of stability, security, and reliability.
What sets Kubuntu apart is its feature-rich KDE Plasma Desktop, offering a highly customizable and visually appealing user interface that caters to individual preferences. When it comes to software availability, Kubuntu leverages Ubuntu’s extensive repository, providing access to an extensive range of applications and packages.
This means that Kubuntu users can enjoy the same selection of software as Ubuntu users, including productivity tools, office suites, email clients, graphic design software, photography apps, and music players. This collection of pre-installed applications empowers its users to hit the ground running and accomplish their tasks with ease, right after installation.
4. Elementary OS
Elementary OS is built upon the solid foundation of Ubuntu LTS. Developed and maintained by the dedicated team at Elementary, Inc., this open-source project encompasses not only the operating system itself but also a well-crafted desktop environment and a range of applications. It is without doubt, one of the best Ubuntu alternatives for Linux OS.
With a deep focus on user experience, Elementary OS strives to provide a seamless and intuitive computing environment that caters to the needs of its users. Drawing inspiration from the sleek design principles of macOS, it aims to deliver a visually pleasing interface coupled with a high level of functionality, stability, reliability, and long-term support.
5. Gentoo
Gentoo is a fascinating and distinctive Linux distribution that stands out due to its package-based approach. Unlike other distributions that deliver software in binary form, it takes a rather unique route by allowing users to generate the source code locally, tailored specifically to their own specifications.
This ability to customize and optimize the software to fit one’s needs is an empowering feature of Gentoo. While some larger packages or those lacking source code may come with precompiled binaries, the core philosophy of Gentoo revolves around the user’s ability to shape their software environment to match their exact requirements.
It’s worth noting that the name “Gentoo” itself is derived from the captivating Gentoo penguin, a species known for its adaptability and resilience. This choice of name aptly reflects one of Gentoo’s defining characteristics, namely the emphasis on machine-specific optimization.
6. Lubuntu
Lubuntu is renowned for its lightweight nature and impressive performance. Built upon the solid foundation of Ubuntu, it blends the power and reliability of Ubuntu’s infrastructure with the sleek and efficient LXQt desktop environment. This ingenious combination allows Lubuntu to truly shine as a remarkably nimble and resource-friendly operating system.
With LXQt at its core, Lubuntu offers a delightful user experience, characterized by its smooth responsiveness, quick startup times, and efficient memory usage. Whether you’re working on a modest system with limited resources or simply appreciate a snappy and energy-efficient computing experience, Lubuntu is an excellent choice.
Conclusion
Ubuntu is awesome, no doubt! But if you’re ready to spice things up, it’s time to explore the fantastic alternatives waiting for you in the Linux world. Whether you crave speed, eye-catching visuals, or ultimate customization, these Ubuntu alternatives have got you covered. Now, go explore the options in this listicle, and take your Linux experience to new heights!
