Top 5 Linux distributions for general use

Linux is the leading operating system for servers and those high-tech super computers. It's presence can be seen from super computers to even wrist watches. One of the another cool thing about Linux is the ability to make a choice. There are many Linux distributions available with various feature sets, all of which are available for free.

Today, we are going to see the top 5 general purpose Linux distributions you should really checkout.



1. Linux Mint

Linux Mint is an Ubuntu based Linux distribution and is a perfect choice for beginners and intermediate users. It has a great, appealing user interface and comes with Adobe Flash and many video/audio plugins thus able to play DVDs and MP3 out of the box. It also offers a cool installation interface. Since it is based on Ubuntu, all software that works for Ubuntu works with Linux Mint too thus making it a clear winner.

2. Mageia

Mageia is a fork of Mandriva project and is a good choice for general purpose usage. It does not comes with plugins and Adobe Flash features like Linux Mint does, but is still a popular distribution worth checking out.

3. Ubuntu

Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions of all time and it has brought lots of great changes to the industry. Ubuntu is derived from Debian. Ability to apply customization and redistribution made it the popular choice of many Linux enthusiasts to make their own versions. It's software management and installation interface are amazing. Ubuntu also offers both free and paid support for their operating systems.

4. Fedora Project

Fedora is a general purpose Linux distribution which strongly adheres to software freedom. It's an openly developed project largely supported by Red Hat. Fedora has been considered as one the best, stable Linux distribution out there and has some little rough edges compared to Ubuntu family of distributions.

5. Debian

Debian is another popular Linux distribution on which Ubuntu and Linux Mint is based on. It has huge amount of ready to install software packages available. It's stable and light on resources. Do not expect that smooth feeling Linux Mint, Mageia and Ubuntu offers. Expect some rough edges and lots of manual reading and Googling before trying this out. These little problems and work arounds will help you to become a Linux Guru, so hard work pays.


These are the top 5 Linux distributions you should try at least once before making a final conclusion on which one is the best suitable one for you.

• If you are a beginner and would like to play music and videos without going through additional steps, Linux Mint is the best choice.
• In case you are ready to work video/audio on your own, Mageia and Ubuntu are the ways to go.
• If you like to walk bravely on rough roads and learn from mistakes to become a master, Fedora and Debian are the best.