Although many confuse the term “Linux” with an operating system similar to Windows or macOS, in reality the concept is different. Linux is the “core” or “kernel”, which contains the drivers and all the low-level instructions to be able to boot into a computer and function. But it does not have programs, tools, nor is it functional today. In order to use Linux on a computer, it is necessary to resort to what is known as “distribution”.
A distribution, or “distro”, Linux, is an operating system that has been formed from the core, and to which open source applications and tools have been included. Each distribution relies on a different “Daemon” driver, a desktop, a series of programs, some configurations… and many times they even mount customized versions of the kernel to work on certain architectures.
Although there is only one Linux, there are dozens of distributions. And, therefore, if you are new to this field, it is easy for you to feel overwhelmed when choosing. Do I listen to the community? Do I go for easy? Which one best suits my needs?
So, today we are going to see which are the best, and most popular, Linux that you can download and install on your computer.
The most downloaded Linux distros of 2024
If you still haven’t decided between one Linux distro or another, seeing a list of the most used and the ones that cause the most interest to users can also help us decide between one and the other. In this way, according to the data offered by the DistroWatch portal, the most popular systems that arouse the greatest interest among users are the following:
- MX Linux. A great project based on Debian with an XFCE desktop that gives us an elegant appearance along with an easy-to-use, very stable and lightweight system.
- Mint. In a short time, this system has managed to gain ground on Ubuntu. Although it is based on it, it changes many internal aspects of it to please the community.
- EndeavourOS. Great Linux distro, based on Arch, that allows us to choose to customize all aspects of the system from installation. An easy and quick way to have Arch Linux on your PC.
- Debian. Without a doubt, one of the most important Linux projects. A system where free software prevails and that usually becomes the destination of experienced users due to its balance between ease and stability.
- Manjaro. Another excellent distro based on Arch for those users who want all the advantages of this Linux, but that is also easy to use.
- Ubuntu. The popular Canonical distro. One of the best gateways to the Linux world, but it is losing more and more followers. Specifically, its 24.04 LTS version offers exceptional performance, in addition to 10 years of support.
- Fedora. This system becomes Red Hat’s “go-to” system. It has all the advantages of RHEL, to which we must add the fact that it is a free system, much easier to use, and with a great variety of “flavors” thanks to Fedora Spins.
- Pop!_OS. Another Ubuntu-based distro with a custom GNOME desktop designed both to imitate the appearance of Windows 11 and to allow users to work with it optimally and without distractions.
Editor’s recommendation
Depending on your experience in Linux, and the use you are going to give to the operating system, I would recommend one system or another. For example, if you are taking the first steps within this operating system, and you want to have everything as easy as possible, and a great community, then I would definitely bet on Ubuntu or Linux Mint, two very simple systems that do not go too far out of the ordinary. the standard.
If you are a user with a little more experience, without fear of challenges, and you are looking for a robust and strong system, perfect to function in the long term without worries, then my recommendation goes directly to Debian, Manjaro or Fedora, depending on whether you prefer a type of system. “Debian”, “Arch” type or “Red Hat” type.
And finally, if you want to be fashionable, and you are very used to Windows, you should give MX Linux a chance, the distro that has been generating the most excitement in recent months.
