Even though we are in 2024, the users’ preferences for the Linux distros have not been much changed. There are a couple of Linux distros in the Desktop user space that were popular in 2023 and are still able to stick to their places rigidly, ofcourse the number of downloads of some has decreased while for others it is increased which is a common phenomenon. Perhaps, instead of using the Top Desktop Linux 2024 headline, we should use “top evergreen Linux OS among users”.
Well, the ranking of distros (from Distrowatch) is based on the number of downloads in the last three months of 2024. In this article, we go through the top 10 desktop Linux distros that have garnered popularity among users in the early part of 2024 while highlighting their features.
1. MX Linux
MX Linux which was number one among users in 2023 is still able to hold its place at the beginning of 2024. The reason behind this is its stability and consumption of fewer resources as compared to other Linux distros such as Ubuntu. Furthermore, it offers multiple sources out of the box to install various applications, and as it is based on Debian, longevity is not an issue. Furthermore having the popular APT package manager makes it familiar to users who are either coming from Debian or Ubuntu. Officially available with XFCE, KDE, and Fluxbox desktop environments, it has become an excellent choice for beginners and experts alike. Its user-friendly interface and powerful MX Tools offer a seamless computing experience.
2. Linux Mint
Well, Mint doesn’t need an introduction, it has been a favorite Linux desktop, especially among beginners or newcomers who are migrating from the Windows operating system. Its simple user interface, extensive software support, and classic design of Cinnamon make it worth trying. It is the second most downloaded Linux in 2024 after MX Linux for Desktop or laptop users. Mint is also available with Mate and XFCE desktop environments, earlier it was based only on Ubuntu but now Debian-based Mint known as LMDE is also available to use.
3. EndeavourOS
Although my favorite Linux based on Arch is Manjaro, however, in 2024 among users Endeavour OS was quite popular. It is a rolling release Arch-based but fully customized distro that supports both x86_64 and ARM systems. It comes with Pacman as a package manager with access to the vast Arch User Repository (AUR) for additional software. However, AUR is not enabled on EndeavourOS by default but can be easily accessible using helper tools like Yay or Paru.
Furthermore, while installing the EndeavourOS, users can choose their favorite desktop environment such as Xfce (the default and lightest option), GNOME, KDE Plasma, and others, or even opt for a window manager like i3wm for a more minimalist setup.
4. Debian
Instead of providing the latest software packages, Debian is more inclined towards server user community where stability and compatibility are preferable and that is the reason why it is relatively not that popular among Desktop users. But still, due to extreme stability and vast repository, it suits a wide range of users, from casual desktop users to developers and server administrators.
5. Manjaro
Manjaro is the best among the Arch-based Linux distro because of its vast repository, and graphical application store that not only offers AUR but also packages from Snap and Flatpak, not only that, it can even build packages from their source if they are not available to install via the default package manager in binary form.
In Manjaro you will not have performance issues as well. However, sometimes you may face difficulties when it comes to solving some problems or while configuring services because compared to Ubuntu or Debian or any RPM-based OS, the community support or tutorial articles are not much in terms of numbers. It is also a rolling release distro that ensures users always have access to the latest software updates. Manjaro is versatile, supporting multiple desktop environments out of the box.
6. Ubuntu
You may be wondering if Ubuntu is quite popular then why it is in 6th place? Yes, it is extremely popular but in 2024 beginning users seem a little turned away may be they want to try something new. Nevertheless, just based on the downloaded numbers, we cannot say Ubuntu’s popularity is diminishing because still it is a permanent OS of millions of desktop users. Also, don’t forget due to the LTS version, Ubuntu is popular among Server administrators to host commercial applications and services.
Apart from that, Ubuntu is always the apple of users’ eye because of its extensive community, professional support, regular release cycle, and LTS (Long Term Support) versions offer both cutting-edge features and stability for users who prioritize reliability.
7. Fedora
Fedora is for users who love to experience the latest software and technology as soon as possible. Moreover, backed by Red Hat, Fedora is a testing ground for features that may eventually make their way into Red Hat Enterprise Linux. Fedora is available in multiple editions such as Workstations for everyday use, CoreOS for container-focused OS, Server for server-related systems, Fedora Cloud for private and public clouds, and IoT for IoT-related work. Fedora’s commitment to open source and its huge community makes it a valuable option for developers and technology enthusiasts.
8. Zorin OS
Zorin OS is designed while keeping Windows users in mind because of its similar feel and look. Also, its premium edition comes with a macOS look-alike interface for making the transition of users smooth from Apple notebooks. Zorin is Ubuntu-based Linux, therefore, a vast package repository and community support will surely be there. Apart from that, Zorin out of the box comes with Wine to easily run the Windows application, making it a compelling choice.
Zorin OS comes in various editions to cater to different user needs such as:
- Core, the standard version with a complete desktop experience and essential applications pre-installed.
- The Lite edition comes with an XFCE desktop environment and it is meant to run on older hardware.
- The education edition is specially designed for learning and teaching, it includes educational software and tools.
- Pro (previously Ultimate): The premium edition offers a full range of desktop layouts, additional software, and commercial support.
9. Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS is another Linux in the list built on top of Ubuntu, it is developed by System76. The System76 developers team has optimized the Pop!_OS, especially for their hardware, because they also sell laptops, desktops, mini, servers, and keyboards. However, their custom POP Os is also available to download and install by anyone like any other Linux. Pop!_OS comes with custom GNOME LDE majorly emphasizes gaming and productivity, which is why it offers advanced GPU support such as the inclusion of proprietary NVIDIA drivers and a suite of developer tools.
10. openSUSE
openSUSE is an underestimated Linux operating system because based on SUSE enterprise Linux openSUSE is quite feature-rich and advanced Linux. openSUSE project offers two main distributions: openSUSE Leap and openSUSE Tumbleweed, each designed to meet different user needs.
Leap is the regular release version that provides stability and long-term support, while Tumbleweed is a rolling release that offers the latest software updates.
Its command-line package manager is known as Zypper, which is known for its speed and flexibility. It handles software installation, updates, and removal efficiently. Furthermore, openSUSE is also known for its robust YaST configuration tool, making system management a breeze. It includes Snapper as well, a tool that utilizes the Btrfs filesystem’s snapshot capabilities to allow users to create system snapshots.
