Top Linux Distributions Ranking: Which is Better

When choosing Linux distributions, many users have no doubt and download the latest version. People think that, in the updated version, the developers have eliminated all the errors, added useful features, made the design more attractive, made the interface more friendly. But this is not always true. Only in 2016 released a few modifications and assemblies. Among them there are different systems: both good and bad. Therefore, you need to think about which Linux to choose. And only then, after evaluating all the pros and cons, to install the distribution.

Linux distributions

How to choose?

There is no universal system that will suit all users. Every person needs something different. Administrator important functionality, security and remote control capabilities. Novice - friendly and simple interface. For the lover of innovation - interesting options that are not in previous versions.

In 2016, released a lot of distributions. Among them there will definitely be one that you need. But no rating will make a choice for you. It is better to independently evaluate your favorite option.

There are a few general criteria that are important in any version of Linux:

  • Stability. If the system constantly “crashes”, it gives errors, terminates the work of programs, no other advantages are pushed to the top 2016. You will have to constantly look for the causes of failures and recover damaged data. It does not matter for what tasks you use the modification - its stability is always important.
  • Security. Holes in the system - a godsend for any virus. Of course, Linux is a great example of reliability. But it depends on the firewall, access log, security settings. It is better to choose a distribution kit in which optimum settings are already exposed and all "loopholes" for malicious software are closed.
  • Functionality. Availability of useful and interesting options. Or some kind of "zest", which is not added to other Linux systems. The main thing - do not overdo it. If the assembly is a huge amount of unnecessary features, it is better to take something simpler. After all, they will overload the system.
  • Convenience. The interface should be not only clear, but also practical. To all the important options were "at hand." So that when you turn on the computer you can get to work.
  • Modernity. Outdated systems are good in many ways. They are time tested. If you used them before, after the transition to the distribution in 2016 will have to get used to. And the new modifications may not meet expectations. If it was released recently, there will most likely be bugs in it. But still better to take a modern Linux. Optional latest version. Developers make programs, focusing on new systems. At some point, a useful application may come out that is incompatible with your build. And will have to be updated.
  • Design. Of course, the shell is not the main thing. After all, under it can be nothing. But if the other criteria suit you, why not look at the design of distributions. It can be changed. Therefore, it is not necessary to make a rating of the most beautiful Linux 2016. Just when choosing a modification, see what design options it has.
  • Support, community. This refers not only to the development team and official Linux technical support. Important people who use the operating system. They communicate in forums, discuss assemblies, make reviews. They can answer questions, suggest how to solve the problem. If you install an unpopular version of Linux, then you will have to deal with it yourself. After all, the users who work with it will not be so much. And you can hardly find them. This criterion does not apply to highly specialized modifications.

If you decide which Linux distribution to choose, do not stop at the most common version. Browse through several options. What other people like may not suit you personally.

Run your favorite build on a virtual machine or using the livecd. No rating, review or opinion will replace personal experience. Linux in this regard is unpredictable. You can understand whether the program is suitable for you only after you have worked with it for some time.

Ubuntu

Build that is constantly being improved. Often there are new versions. In 2016, Ubuntu is still popular. Although it was released 10 years ago.

Ubuntu for linux

The system is suitable for beginners who decide to "try" Linux. It is easy to install. She has a convenient and beautiful interface. There is nothing superfluous.

You can work with Ubuntu even without using the terminal. It is not similar to the "classic" Linux - it has to work with the command line. This is both a plus and a minus. You can easily get used to the new environment. But if you decide to put another build, you will not be able to use it without instructions.

Ubuntu often adds new features. And with them - new bugs. They are eliminated as they are detected.

Pros:

  • Distributed for free. Many programs and modifications can be freely downloaded.
  • Quick installation - 10 minutes, and the distribution is already on the computer.
  • Clear and friendly interface. It is easy to understand.
  • No viruses. More precisely, viruses simply cannot infect the system. On Linux Ubuntu without the user's permission nothing happens. If you don’t "miss" the malicious programs themselves, they will not fall into the build.
  • Multiboot operating systems available. Ubuntu can be installed next to Windows. To do this, you do not need to configure anything.
  • Included with the assembly is a set of software.
  • No one Linux distros rating can do without Ubuntu. This is a common build. If you have any problem, you can find a solution in the community or on the forum.

Minuses:

  • Low stability. Periodically there are failures. But when properly configured, the system will work fine. Despite this, Ubuntu and some of its modifications are the best builds of Linux. After all, failures in it are not so critical.
  • You may have errors that no one has encountered. This sin new versions.
  • If you decide to try other Linux distributions, it will be difficult to rebuild after Ubuntu.

Mint

Clear graphical interface. There is a module that will speed up the adaptation if you switched to Mint from the Win system. They have a similar taskbar, desktop, navigation. You quickly get used to the new "environment". There are several working environments. Just choose the one you want to work with.

Linux mint

Mint is based on Ubuntu. The creators of Minta decided to remove all the flaws that are inherent in Linux. Feature of the assembly - it has built-in multimedia codecs. And already included programs that are needed to complete the work on the computer.

Perfectly adjusted feedback. The creators of the modification are interested in the opinions of users, listen to him.

Pros:

  • Mint - almost the most common build in 2016. There is a huge community. You can contact the developers directly with a suggestion or idea.
  • It is free.
  • There are a number of useful functions: plug-ins for easy installation of programs, download updates, run programs.
  • Convenient graphical interface. You can switch between working environments.
  • Often there are modifications and updates.

Minuses:

  • No public security bulletins.
  • The developer is not an official company, but enthusiasts. In many respects this advantage, as the creator of the system will be closer to the users. But he may make mistakes, because he does not have a team of professionals.

Debian

One of the oldest representatives of Linux. But it is popular in 2016 thanks to its stability and security. He has a huge development team. But new versions are rare.

Debian for Linux

Debian install on servers. It is suitable for remote administration. It has the best package management systems.

Build is not suitable for beginners. She has a greater number of programs and settings that need to be understood. But installing the build is easy.

Pros:

  • This is a sample of stability.
  • Support for many different architectures.
  • It works quickly and efficiently.
  • Provides security.
  • There are a huge number of programs. About 43, 000 packages.
  • Debian is easy to upgrade.
  • Suitable for servers and remote administration. There is a package management system.

Minuses:

  • After installation, you need an initial setup.
  • The settings themselves are hard to figure out.
  • Distribution is already outdated. Popular in 2016 just because it is the most stable and reliable build based on Linux.
  • Rarely there are updates.
  • The amount of software is both an advantage and a disadvantage. Beginner will not be easy to understand such a variety of software.

Other assemblies

Assemblies that are not included in the 2016 rating. But many users might like them.

  • Arch Linux. Simple and convenient build. If you want to understand Linux and learn how to work in it, Arch Linux will be the best choice. But the distribution has one major drawback. After installation you will not see anything. All functions must be searched and configured independently. And no automation. Before downloading this build, read the instructions for it.

Arch linux

  • Chalet OS. If you are a “yesterday” Windows user, Chalet OS is for you. This build is very similar to Win. But under the shell is hidden Linux. You can manage the new system using the familiar graphical interface. Build out recently. There may still be flaws in it.

Chalet os

  • Elementary OS. Distribution kit with a stunning design. And these are all its advantages. The modification added only those applications that do not violate the overall composition of the desktop. No new solutions or features. Elementary OS is just a beautiful operating system.

Elementary

  • Cub Linux. Suitable for laptops. Build is stable. It has a practical and uncluttered interface. Because of this, the battery lasts longer. On Cub Linux, you can run software designed for Ubuntu. He does not need a powerful computer. It is installed even on old laptops. But there is also a minus - the system is slowly loading.

Cub Linux

Highly specialized distributions

Here are the best distributions of Linux 2016, designed for highly specialized tasks.

  • Ubuntu Studio. Ubuntu based multimedia studio. Professional build, designed for designers, sound engineers and those involved in video editing. The functionality of the system is aimed only at this - it is not intended for other tasks. Ubuntu Studio does not need a lot of resources. They can be distributed between programs.

Ubuntu studio

  • Tails If you do not want to be watched, install Tails. It is based on Debian. Build provides security, privacy and complete anonymity online. Runs from livecd.

Tails for Linux

  • Snappy Ubuntu Core. Innovation for innovation. Designed for "smart things." With it you can manage home automation tools (microwaves, coffee makers). The system does not need a lot of resources to work.

Snappy ubuntu

  • Steam OS. A huge problem for Linux - there are few games on it. Because of this, many users preferred Windows. And they were not going to completely abandon it. But Valve found a solution - it provided “Linux for games”. Operating system Steam OS based on Debian. It features the Steam platform.

Steam os

To decide which Linux to choose, you need to try a few favorite builds. In reviews and tops, you can only look at the options. But if you know exactly what you need, install without hesitation.

Which Linux do you think is best?