Top Linux Distributions to Choose in 2021: A Practical Guide

1. Linux Mint

Uses the Cinnamon desktop, provides a familiar Windows‑like interface, low memory footprint and strong community support, making it suitable for older hardware. Official ISO download page: https://www.linuxmi.com/linux-mint-vs-ubuntu-xuanze.html (link to Mint download).

2. Ubuntu

Default GNOME desktop, extensive documentation and community assistance, stable release cycle, and broad hardware compatibility. ISO images are available from the Ubuntu official website.

3. Kali Linux

Debian‑testing based penetration‑testing distro that ships hundreds of tools for vulnerability analysis, wireless attacks, web exploitation, forensics, etc. Supports installation on desktops, Raspberry Pi, Chromebooks, BeagleBone and Android via NetHunter. Official download: https://www.linuxmi.com/kali-linux-2021-1-xfce-4-16-linux-5-10.html. Alternatives: Parrot OS, BlackArch (https://www.linuxmi.com/blackarch-linux-2021-03-01.html), BackBox.

4. Pop!_OS

Optimized for gaming and graphics work; provides separate ISO images with pre‑installed NVIDIA or AMD/Intel drivers. Includes Proton compatibility layer for running Windows games on Linux. Official download page: https://www.linuxmi.com/pop_os-20-04-ubuntu.html.

5. MX Linux

Debian‑based distribution with the lightweight Xfce desktop. Ranked highly on DistroWatch for its clean UI, portable installation options, and “midweight” classification. Download information: https://www.linuxmi.com/mx-linux-19-3.html.

6. Solus

Independent distro using the Budgie desktop. Targets developers with pre‑installed programming tools and support for multiple VCS. Package manager is eopkg. ISO and documentation are on the Solus website: https://www.linuxmi.com/solus-4-2-fortitude.html.

7. elementary OS

Ubuntu‑based distro featuring the Pantheon desktop built with Vala, GTK+, and Granite libraries. Emphasizes a macOS‑like aesthetic, lightweight default applications, and smooth UI. Official download: https://www.linuxmi.com/10-linux-2021.html.

8. Tails

Amnesic Incognito Live System based on Debian. Runs from DVD/USB, forces all network traffic through Tor, stores data only in RAM, and includes built‑in encryption tools for email, files, and instant messaging. Download page: https://www.linuxmi.com/tails-4-16.html. Alternative privacy‑focused distros: Whonix, Qubes OS, Alpine Linux.

9. CentOS Stream

RPM/Yum based rolling‑release distribution that follows the upstream development of RHEL. Provides a stable platform for server deployments with broad industry support. Download and documentation: https://www.linuxmi.com/centos-linux-8-to-centos-stream-8.html. Server alternatives: RHEL, Debian, Ubuntu LTS.

10. Manjaro Linux

Arch‑based distro offering a user‑friendly installer, access to Arch documentation, and a large community. Suitable for gaming, development, and daily use while maintaining a balance between cutting‑edge software and stability. Official release notes: https://www.linuxmi.com/manjaro-20-2-nibia.html. Alternatives: Fedora, openSUSE.

11. Raspberry Pi OS

Official Debian‑based operating system for Raspberry Pi hardware. Provides the lightweight Pixel desktop, pre‑installed utilities, and an easy SD‑card imaging tool. Download page: https://www.linuxmi.com/raspberry-pi-desktop.html. Other Pi‑compatible distros include Ubuntu and Arch Linux ARM.