9 Best Linux Distros in 2025 for Every Type of User

Want to use a Linux operating system but confused about which one is good for you? Then you are in the right place because in this article I will share with you the 9 best Linux distros for beginners, students, developers, ethical hackers, and the people who are interested in cybersecurity.

Covering the system requirements for each distro and which type of people can use that distro, everything is explained in a simple way so that you can easily choose the right Linux distro according to your preferences and requirements.

What is Linux?

Linux is a free operating system like Windows or macOS, but the difference is Linux is open-source that means anyone can use it, share it, and even modify it. It was popular among the cybersecurity experts, ethical hackers, and professionals.

Linux is distributed in many versions that are called distros, each distro is made for different types of users. Some distros are simple and lightweight, and some are very powerful, fully loaded with thousands of tools.

Best Linux Distros for Every Type of Users

Many Linux distros are available in 2025, but not all are right for you. In this section, you will find the 9 best Linux distros for different types of users, like beginners, ethical hackers, cybersecurity experts, and more.

Quick Look at the 9 Best Linux Distros

1. Ubuntu (LTS) – Best for beginners.
2. Linux Mint – Best for Windows switchers.
3. Fedora Workstation – Best for developers.
4. Pop!_OS – Best for gaming and creators.
5. Debian – Best for stability and servers.
6. Manjaro – Best rolling distro for learners.
7. Zorin OS – Best Windows-like feel.
8. elementary OS – Best clean Mac-like design.
9. Kali Linux – Best for ethical hacking and security learning.

1) Ubuntu (LTS) — Best Linux Distro for Beginners

Ubuntu is the most popular Linux distro in the world. It is simple, friendly, and comes with everything you need to start. It has a large community, which means if you ever face a problem, you will always find a solution online. Ubuntu is also used by many schools and companies, so learning it will help you in the future. It comes with the GNOME desktop, which looks modern and clean, but it can be a little heavy for very old computers.

System Requirements for Ubuntu:

• RAM: 2 GB minimum (4 GB recommended)
• CPU: 64-bit dual-core or better
• Storage: 25 GB free
• ISO Size: ~3.5 GB

Ubuntu is easy for beginners because it has software stores where you can download apps like browsers, media players, and office tools in just one click. The only downside is that Ubuntu can feel slow on very old laptops because of its heavier desktop.

2) Linux Mint — Best for Windows Users and Everyday Use

Linux Mint is a distro that looks and feels a lot like Windows. If you are someone moving from Windows to Linux, Mint is the best choice. It comes with the Cinnamon desktop, which is simple, smooth, and very friendly. You don’t have to install a lot of things after setup because it already comes with software like Firefox, LibreOffice, and a media player.

System Requirements for Linux Mint:

• RAM: 2 GB minimum (4 GB recommended)
• CPU: 64-bit processor
• Storage: 20 GB free
• ISO Size: ~2.1 GB

Mint is perfect for people who want stability and comfort. It is fast and safe, but it does not always get the newest updates as quickly as other distros. However, that also makes it very stable, which is good if you just want a computer that works without issues.

3) Fedora Workstation — Best for Developers and Fresh Software

Fedora is loved by developers because it always gives you the latest software and technology. If you are someone who codes or builds applications, Fedora is a great choice. It is backed by Red Hat, which makes it strong and reliable. The desktop looks very clean with GNOME, and it supports the newest programming tools out of the box.

System Requirements for Fedora:

• RAM: 4 GB minimum (8 GB recommended)
• CPU: 64-bit dual-core or better
• Storage: 25 GB+
• ISO Size: ~1.9 GB

Fedora is best for people who love to stay updated with new technology. It is stable and polished, but because it always brings the latest software, sometimes small bugs can appear. Beginners might find it less friendly compared to Ubuntu or Mint, but if you want a modern system with the latest apps, Fedora will be great for you.

4) Pop!_OS — Best for Gaming and Creators

Pop!_OS is a Linux distro made by System76, and it is designed for gamers and creators. If you want to play games on Linux or do heavy work like video editing or 3D design, this distro is made for you. It has great support for NVIDIA and AMD graphics cards, so you don’t have to waste time installing drivers. It also has a tiling window manager that makes multitasking very easy.

System Requirements for Pop!_OS:

• RAM: 4 GB minimum (8 GB recommended)
• CPU: 64-bit
• Storage: 25 GB+
• ISO Size: ~2.5 GB

Pop!_OS is one of the smoothest and most modern distros for creative people. The only drawback is that it takes more resources than lightweight distros. But if your laptop or desktop is powerful, you will love using Pop!_OS.

5) Debian — Best for Stability and Servers

Debian is one of the oldest Linux distros, and it is known for being very stable. Many other distros like Ubuntu are built from Debian. It does not always give you the latest software, but it is rock solid. If you want a system that just works without breaking, Debian is the right choice. Many servers across the world run Debian because it is trusted and safe.

System Requirements for Debian:

• RAM: 1 GB minimum (2 GB+ recommended)
• CPU: 64-bit processor
• Storage: 10–20 GB+
• ISO Size: ~3.7 GB

Debian is great if you want a reliable system for a long time. However, complete beginners may find it a little difficult to install and set up compared to Ubuntu. But once it is installed, it runs smoothly and securely.

6) Manjaro — Best Rolling Distro for Beginners (Arch-based)

Manjaro is based on Arch Linux but is much easier to use. It gives you the latest updates regularly because it is a rolling release distro. This means you don’t need to reinstall your system to get the newest software. Manjaro also gives you access to the Arch User Repository (AUR), which has thousands of extra apps.

System Requirements for Manjaro:

• RAM: 2 GB minimum (4 GB recommended)
• CPU: 64-bit
• Storage: 20 GB+
• ISO Size: ~3.2 GB

Manjaro is perfect for people who want the power of Arch Linux without the difficult setup. It is easy to use and has different desktop environments to choose from. The only thing to note is that rolling updates can sometimes cause small problems, so you need to be a little careful.

7) Zorin OS — Best for Windows-Like Look and Easy Setup

Zorin OS is designed to look like Windows. This makes it very easy for people who want to switch from Windows to Linux. It has a clean interface, and you can choose Zorin Core for normal computers or Zorin Lite for old laptops. Both versions are smooth and beginner-friendly.

System Requirements for Zorin OS:

• Zorin Core: 2 GB RAM minimum (4 GB recommended)
• Zorin Lite: 1 GB RAM minimum (2 GB recommended)
• CPU: 64-bit
• Storage: 15–20 GB
• ISO Size: ~2.4 GB (Core), ~1.2 GB (Lite)

Zorin OS is one of the best choices for families, schools, or anyone who wants an easy switch from Windows. It is smooth and reliable, but it does not have as many customization options as some other distros.

8) elementary OS — Best for Clean, Mac-Like Design

elementary OS is one of the most beautiful Linux distros. It looks very similar to macOS and is made for people who like a clean and simple desktop. It is lightweight, elegant, and helps you focus. It comes with its own AppCenter where you can download safe and tested apps.

System Requirements for elementary OS:

• RAM: 4 GB minimum (8 GB recommended)
• CPU: 64-bit
• Storage: 15–20 GB
• ISO Size: ~2.6 GB

elementary OS is best for creative users or people who like minimal design. However, it does not allow much customization compared to other distros. If you want speed, style, and focus, elementary OS is a great pick.

9) Kali Linux — Best for Ethical Hacking and Cybersecurity Learning

Kali Linux is a special Linux distro made for ethical hacking and security. It comes with more than 600 tools for penetration testing, digital forensics, and learning cybersecurity. It is widely used by hackers, security researchers, and ethical hackers. Kali is not made for daily use like watching movies or browsing, but it is excellent for learning hacking and security.

System Requirements for Kali Linux:

• RAM: 2 GB minimum (4 GB+ recommended)
• CPU: 64-bit
• Storage: 20 GB+
• ISO Size: ~3.6 GB

Kali Linux is powerful but not easy for complete beginners. If you are interested in ethical hacking, then Kali is the best choice. But if you just want a daily-use system, you should go with Ubuntu or Mint instead.

Simple Comparison Table (Fast View)

How to Install a Linux Distro

Installing a Linux distro is very easy if you follow these steps:

1. Download the ISO file: Visit the official website of the Linux distro you want to install, like Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Kali Linux, then go to the download section and download the ISO file.
2. Make a bootable USB: Move the ISO file to a pen drive and use tools like Rufus to make the ISO bootable, which means the Linux distro will start from the pen drive.
3. Restart your computer: Plug the pen drive into a computer or a laptop where you want to install the Linux distro, then restart it. While in the restarting press boot menu key like F12, F10, or ESC, depending on your laptop or computer, then choose the USB option.
4. Try or Install Linux: Select the “Start installing Linux on your computer” option.
5. Follow the setup steps: The installer will ask you some things like your language, your time zone, your username and password, and where to install (you can erase everything or install beside Windows). Just choose what you like and continue.
6. Wait for the installation: The system will copy files and install everything, and the process may take up to one hour depending on your laptop or computer.
7. Restart and Enjoy Linux: Once the installation process is completed, you will be asked to enter your login password. Enter the password, then remove the pen drive and explore your new Linux system.

Conclusion

Linux is a powerful operating system, and there are many types of Linux distros available in 2025. 9 of the best Linux distros are listed and explained in this article. You can choose the best suitable Linux distro for your needs by learning the features, pros, cons, and system requirements of these Linux distros.

If you are new to Linux, then you can go with Linux Mint, and if you want to do cybersecurity and ethical hacking, then you can go with Kali Linux.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)