NixOS AlternativesLinux Distros & Operating Systems like NixOS

NixOS is described as 'GNU/Linux distribution that aims to improve the state of the art in system configuration management. In existing distributions, actions such as upgrades are dangerous: upgrading a package can cause other packages to break, upgrading an entire system is much less' and is a popular Linux Distro in the os & utilities category. There are more than 100 alternatives to NixOS for a variety of platforms, including Linux, Self-Hosted, Mac, BSD and Windows apps. The best NixOS alternative is Linux Mint, which is both free and Open Source. Other great apps like NixOS are Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora and Arch Linux.

Copy a direct link to this comment to your clipboard
NixOS alternatives page was last updated

Alternatives list

  1. Linux Mint icon
     1171 likes

    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

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
  2. Ubuntu icon
     2369 likes

    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.

    167 Ubuntu alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
    • Ubuntu
     
  3. Debian icon
     1161 likes

    The Debian Project is an association of individuals who have made common cause to create a free operating system. This operating system that we have created is called Debian.

    200 Debian alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Windows
    • Linux
    • BSD
    • Self-Hosted
     
  4. Fedora icon
     600 likes

    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.

    183 Fedora alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
  5. Arch Linux icon
     784 likes

    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.

    200 Arch Linux alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
  6. Manjaro Linux icon
     329 likes

    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...

    180 Manjaro Linux alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
    • Arch Linux
     
    |
    1
    Manjaro Linux vs NixOS Comments
    Anohoshi
    Negative
    0

    Manjaro is ironically less stable in practice than Arch. Its 1-2 week package hold "for stability" often breaks dependency sync with the AUR and causes unique bugs not found in Arch. Arch's true rolling model with synchronous updates is ultimately more reliable.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    • Manjaro Linux is Free and Open SourceNixOS is also Free and Open Source
    • Manjaro Linux is Customizable and Security-focusedNixOS is not according to our users
  7. Zorin OS icon
     143 likes

    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
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
  8. CachyOS icon
     39 likes

    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...

    72 CachyOS alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
  9. macOS icon
     566 likes

    A Unix-based OS for Mac with seamlessly integration with Apple’s ecosystem, offering an intuitive UI, productivity tools like Finder, Spotlight, and Automator, built-in apps like Safari and Photos, Continuity for cross-device functionality, and security features including FileVault and Gatekeeper.

    177 macOS alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Proprietary

    Application type

    Platforms

    • Mac
     
12 of 189 NixOS alternatives