Linux Distributions
Every major Linux distribution in one place — what it's based on, who it's for, its desktop environment and package manager, with a link to download it.
11 distributions
Armbian
Based on Debian / UbuntuA Debian/Ubuntu-based distribution built for the huge and fragmented world of ARM single-board computers beyond just Raspberry Pi, providing a consistent build system and board-specific kernels.
Batocera.linux
Based on IndependentA retro-gaming-emulation distribution similar in mission to Lakka, built around the EmulationStation frontend instead of RetroArch's own menu, with broad single-board-computer and PC hardware support.
Buildroot
Based on Independent (build framework, not a fixed distribution)A simpler, more lightweight alternative to the Yocto Project for building custom embedded Linux systems, favored for smaller devices where Yocto's greater complexity and overhead aren't justified.
DietPi
Based on DebianA highly optimized, minimal Debian-based distribution for single-board computers, offering a menu-driven tool to install and configure dozens of self-hosted services with minimal resource overhead.
Lakka
Based on Independent (built on the same base philosophy as LibreELEC)A lightweight Linux distribution built entirely around RetroArch, turning a Raspberry Pi or similar small computer into a dedicated retro-game-emulation console.
LibreELEC
Based on Independent (Kodi-focused embedded Linux)A minimal embedded Linux distribution that exists to do exactly one thing: boot as fast as possible straight into the Kodi media center, turning a small computer or single-board computer into a dedicated home-theater device.
OpenWrt
Based on IndependentThe dominant open-source firmware replacement for consumer routers, turning stock, feature-limited router hardware into a fully configurable Linux-based networking device.
Raspberry Pi OS
Based on DebianThe official, Raspberry Pi Foundation-maintained operating system for Raspberry Pi single-board computers, built on Debian and optimized specifically for that hardware family.
Ubuntu Core
Based on UbuntuCanonical's minimal, security-hardened, IoT-focused edition of Ubuntu, built entirely around transactionally-updated Snap packages rather than traditional .deb packages.
Yocto Project
Based on Independent (build framework, not a fixed distribution)A Linux Foundation-hosted build framework (not a distribution to install) for creating fully custom embedded Linux systems, used industry-wide across networking gear, automotive systems, and IoT devices.
postmarketOS
Based on Alpine LinuxA mobile-focused Linux distribution built on Alpine Linux, aiming to bring a real, mainline-Linux-kernel-based mobile OS to old Android phones and dedicated Linux phone hardware alike, with a '10 years of updates' mission.