How To Pick a Linux Distribution for Non-Techies

Say goodbye to the distribution jump and use Linux efficiently! After two years of stable use of Linux system, I have summarized some time-saving techniques and shared with you:

1. Linux distributions have different paths: The core of all Linux distributions is the same operating system - the Linux kernel. The similarity between them is much greater than the difference. Therefore, the time spent on finding a better “better” distribution is much more than the benefits it brings.

2. Reject dedicated distributions: Avoid use of specific purpose-specific distributions such as Kali, CentOS, and openSUSE. Although openSUSE is excellent, it is mainly aimed at enterprise users. Daily users do not need most of its functions, and maintaining it will waste time. The same goes for the RedHat series.

3. Choose a distribution for the public: Choose a distribution for everyday users, such as AntiX and SolusOS. Read their descriptions and target user groups on Distrowatch.

4. Stay away from technology to distribution: Avoid using Arch Linux and its derivatives and Gentoo to distributions. They are designed for programmers. If you are not a programmer, you will most likely break it. Their updates are usually very large and frequent, and it can be very troublesome to update before installing new packages. If you are just for AUR, just learn some compilation knowledge.

5. Simplify the desktop environment: Apart from LXDE and LXQT, try to avoid using other desktop environments (DEs). For best performance, it is best to use a window manager (WM). The desktop environment may have bugs and cause distractions, and will also increase startup time and update size. Consider only selecting a distribution with preinstalled window manager to avoid additional work after installation. Remember: the fewer things, the less likely it is to have problems. Keep the system streamlined and don't let the gorgeous interface distract you.

6. Avoid derivatives: The difference between derivatives and original distributions is usually not enough to compensate for the additional problems it brings. They tend to inherit the bugs of the parent distribution and add their own problems on this basis. Standalone distributions fix issues faster. Prioritize the original standalone distribution.

7. Software availability is not the primary concern: each distribution provides tools to help you install packages that are not available in its library. Additionally, package managers such as AppImage and Flatpak allow you to install packages on all distributions. Avoid using Snap as it slows down startup and does not allow you to control application updates (things may change in the future).

8. Preferred to rolling update distributions: Reinstalling the system is boring and time-consuming. Creating a bootable drive also damaged several of my USB drives, although I can't prove causality.

Finally, work hard, be happy to learn, and don't waste time on fancy graphical interfaces. Use your computer to maximize your life and don't let it waste your time. Your time is invaluable.

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