The Linux ecosystem is vast and diverse, offering a multitude of distributions to suit every need and preference. With hundreds of distros to choose from, it’s a pity that most are rarely mentioned while the popular ones are constantly being regurgitated.
This thread aims to celebrate this diversity and shine a light on smaller projects with passionate developers. I invite you to pitch your favorite underappreciated distro and share your experiences with those lesser-known Linux distributions that deserve more attention.
While there are no strict rules or banlists, I encourage you to focus on truly niche or exotic distributions rather than the more commonly discussed ones. Consider touching upon what makes your chosen distro unique:
- What features or philosophies set it apart?
- Why do you favor it over other distros, including the popular ones? (Beyond “It just works.”)
- In what situations would you recommend it to others?
Whether it’s a specialized distro for a particular use case or a general-purpose OS with a unique twist, let’s explore the road less traveled in the Linux landscape. Your insights could introduce fellow enthusiasts to their next favorite distribution!
I do recommend Gentoo (haven't tried Funtoo) for the academically inclined. It's a beast to maintain, but you'll soon find yourself at ease with configuring and compiling your own kernel, configuring your packages and even making some yourself.
It isn't as hard as people make it out to be - if you gradually push your boundaries. In particular, it's good if you already use Arch.
Arch stumped me. But this was nearly a decade ago though. I know more and maybe the getting started guide has improved.
Arch guide expanded in scope IMO. The choices are way more than in the past. However, it's good quality and easy to read. I implore you to skim it, even if you don't try it out.