Debian AlternativesOnly apps categorised as Linux Distros

The best Linux Distro alternative to Debian is Linux Mint, which is both free and Open Source. If that doesn't suit you, our users have ranked more than 100 alternatives to Debian and loads of them are Linux Distros so hopefully you can find a suitable replacement. Other interesting Linux Distro alternatives to Debian are Ubuntu, Arch Linux, Fedora and Manjaro Linux.

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Debian alternatives are mainly Linux Distros, but if you're looking for Operating Systems or Package Managers you can filter on that. These are just examples - use the filter bar below to find more specific alternatives to Debian.
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Alternatives list

  1. Linux Mint icon

    Linux Mint

     1157 likes
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    Linux distribution focused on desktop use, with unique menus, media codecs, browser plugins, and DVD support pre-installed; offers easy package management, compatibility with Ubuntu repositories, and a Debian-based alternative for consistency and reliability.

    184 Linux Mint alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Linux
    Linux Mint 22.2 "Zara"
     
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    23
    Comments about Linux Mint as an Alternative to Debian
    alexandredarochacelestino
    Positive
    5

    User friendly interface, pack of apps. Pre configured with java and flash.

    Guest
    Positive
    -1

    Not much an alternative, but alongside with Manjaro it's fairly, useful, sleek and intuitive to use from everyone coming from macOS or Windows. I think Debian it's more powerful, but it has it's learning curve.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Debian Icon
    Linux Mint icon

    • Almost everyone thinks Linux Mint is a great Debian alternative.

    • Linux Mint is the most popular Linux alternative to Debian.

    • Linux Mint is the most popular Open Source & free alternative to Debian.

    • Linux Mint is Free and Open SourceDebian is also Free and Open Source
  2. Ubuntu icon

    Ubuntu

     2362 likes
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    Ubuntu is a community developed, Linux-based operating system that is perfect for laptops, desktops and servers. It contains all the applications you need - a web browser, presentation, document and spreadsheet software, instant messaging and much more.

    165 Ubuntu alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Linux
    • Ubuntu
    Ubuntu 24.04 with Gnome 46
     
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    1
    26
    Comments about Ubuntu as an Alternative to Debian
    LindsayBinsThompson
    Positive
    -23

    Ubuntu is best alternative by their quality OS

    Debian Icon
    Ubuntu icon

    • Most users think Ubuntu is a great Debian alternative.

    • Ubuntu is Free and Open SourceDebian is also Free and Open Source
  4. Arch Linux icon

    Arch Linux

     777 likes
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    Arch Linux is an independently developed, x86_64 optimized GNU/Linux distribution targeted at competent Linux users. It uses pacman, its home-grown package manager, to provide updates to the latest software applications with full dependency tracking.

    199 Arch Linux alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Linux
    arch with KDE 4.4 desktop
     
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    3
    30
    Comments about Arch Linux as an Alternative to Debian
    Kelson V
    Positive
    0

    Usually more current than Debian, but also more of a pain to set up a new system, and doesn't run on as many architectures.

    OAKSIF0
    Positive
    -3

    If you want something stable and more customizable with support and a better package managing system Arch Linux is for you. You can even use debtap to convert Debian packages to an Arch Package, there are other 3rd party programs that can do that too.

    Guest
    Positive
    -7

    Also light and configurable, ArchLinux is a much more up to date, and stays that way all the time. Its package manager is also much faster and easier to use.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Debian Icon
    Arch Linux icon

    • Almost everyone thinks Arch Linux is a great Debian alternative.

    • Arch Linux is Free and Open SourceDebian is also Free and Open Source
    • Arch Linux is MinimalisticDebian is not according to our users
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    Zorin OS icon
    Zorin OS

    Linux-based OS designed for familiar user experience, mimicking Windows or macOS, supports dual-boot, runs Windows apps via WINE, pre-installed essential software, customizable desktop layouts, broad hardware compatibility, and p...

    https://zorin.com
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  6. Fedora icon

    Fedora

     589 likes
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    Fedora creates an innovative, free, and open source platform for hardware, clouds, and containers that enables software developers and community members to build tailored solutions for their users.

    184 Fedora alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Linux
    Fedora 38
     
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    17
  7. Manjaro Linux icon

    Manjaro Linux

     330 likes
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    Manjaro is a user-friendly Linux distribution based on the independently developed Arch operating system. Within the Linux community, Arch itself is renowned for being an exceptionally fast, powerful, and lightweight distribution that provides access to the very latest cutting...

    179 Manjaro Linux alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Linux
    • Arch Linux
    Manjaro 19.0 Kyria (Xfce)
     
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    1
    13
    Comments about Manjaro Linux as an Alternative to Debian
    Guest
    Positive
    1

    Arch based and drivers supports

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    Debian Icon
    Manjaro Linux icon

    • Almost everyone thinks Manjaro Linux is a great Debian alternative.

    • Manjaro Linux is Free and Open SourceDebian is also Free and Open Source
    • Manjaro Linux is Security-focusedDebian is not according to our users
  11. Kubuntu icon

    Kubuntu

     280 likes
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    Kubuntu is an official "flavor" of Ubuntu that uses the KDE Plasma desktop environment. This gives it a completely different look and feel.

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Linux
    Kubuntu 19.10 "Eoan Ermine"
     
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    10
  12. Zorin OS icon

    Zorin OS

     131 likes
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    Linux-based OS designed for familiar user experience, mimicking Windows or macOS, supports dual-boot, runs Windows apps via WINE, pre-installed essential software, customizable desktop layouts, broad hardware compatibility, and privacy-focused updates.

    186 Zorin OS alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Freemium (Pay once)
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Linux
    Windows 10 layout
     
  13. EndeavourOS icon

    EndeavourOS

     58 likes
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    EndeavourOS is an Arch-based distro that provides an Arch experience without the hassle of installing it manually for both x86_64 and ARM systems. After installation, you’re provided with a lightweight and almost barebones environment ready to be explored with your terminal...

    163 EndeavourOS alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Linux
    Welcome window
     
  14. KDE Linux icon

    KDE Linux

     24 likes
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    Free Linux-based OS from KDE community, emphasizing safety, functionality, and advanced desktop technologies, integrating Plasma and KDE apps for home, enterprise, public, or pre-installed computer use, prioritizing updates, usability, and customization.

    54 KDE Linux alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Linux
    • KDE Plasma
    KDE Linux screenshot 1
     
  15. CachyOS icon

    CachyOS

     32 likes
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    CachyOS is designed to deliver lightning-fast speeds and stability, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable computing experience every time you use it. Whether you're a seasoned Linux user or just starting out, CachyOS is the ideal choice for those looking for a powerful...

    70 CachyOS alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Linux
    CachyOS screenshot 1
     
12 of 135 Debian alternatives