Raspberry Pi OS AlternativesLinux Distros & Operating Systems like Raspberry Pi OS

Raspberry Pi OS is described as '(previously called Raspbian) is the Foundation’s official supported operating system. You can install it with NOOBS or download the image below and follow our installation guide' and is a very popular Linux Distro in the os & utilities category. There are more than 100 alternatives to Raspberry Pi OS for a variety of platforms, including Linux, Self-Hosted, Windows, BSD and Mac apps. The best Raspberry Pi OS alternative is Ubuntu, which is both free and Open Source. Other great apps like Raspberry Pi OS are Arch Linux, Manjaro Linux, Zorin OS and openSUSE.

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Raspberry Pi OS alternatives page was last updated

Alternatives list

  1. Ubuntu icon
     2368 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.

    166 Ubuntu alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
    • Ubuntu
     
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    2
    Ubuntu vs Raspberry Pi OS Comments
    UserohneNamen
    Positive
    1

    Ubuntu CAN be indeed an alternative. See: https://ubuntu.com/download/raspberry-pi .

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    ZAlex
    Negative
    -2

    Its not an OS for Raspberry Pi

    • Ubuntu is Free and Open SourceRaspberry Pi OS is also Free and Open Source
    • Ubuntu is Customizable and LightweightRaspberry Pi OS is not according to our users
  2. 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
     
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    1
    Arch Linux vs Raspberry Pi OS Comments
    Guest
    Positive
    0

    Arch Linux has a port available that will run on the Raspberry Pi.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    • Arch Linux is Free and Open SourceRaspberry Pi OS is also Free and Open Source
    • Arch Linux is Customizable, Lightweight, Minimalistic and Privacy focusedRaspberry Pi OS is not according to our users
  3. Manjaro Linux icon
     330 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...

    179 Manjaro Linux alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
    • Arch Linux
     
  4. 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
     
  5. 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
     
  6. KDE Linux icon
     26 likes

    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.

    55 KDE Linux alternatives

    Cost / License

    Platforms

    • Linux
    • KDE Plasma
     
  7. EndeavourOS icon
     62 likes

    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...

    Cost / License

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
  8. Windows 10 icon
     413 likes

    Versatile OS with universal app architecture, free first-year offer for Windows 7 and 8.1 users, redesigned mouse-touch UI, virtual desktop, Microsoft Edge, upgraded security, and enhanced graphics for gaming, supporting fingerprint and face recognition login.

    177 Windows 10 alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Paid
    • Proprietary

    Application type

    Alerts

    • Discontinued

    Platforms

    • Windows
     
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    1
    Windows 10 vs Raspberry Pi OS Comments
    Guest
    Negative
    4

    It's not open source, not free and because it's not a Linux distribution, it works in a different way.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    • Windows 10 is Paid and ProprietaryRaspberry Pi OS is Free and Open Source
  9. FreeBSD icon
     266 likes

    FreeBSD is an operating system used to power modern servers, desktops, and embedded platforms. A large community has continually developed it for more than thirty years. Its advanced networking, security, and storage features have made FreeBSD the platform of choice for many of...

    193 FreeBSD alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application type

    Platforms

    • BSD
    • Self-Hosted
     
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    1
    FreeBSD vs Raspberry Pi OS Comments
    Guest
    Positive
    3

    FreeBSD has a port available that will run on the Raspberry Pi.

    Review by a new / low-activity user.
    • FreeBSD is Free and Open SourceRaspberry Pi OS is also Free and Open Source
    • FreeBSD is Privacy focused and LightweightRaspberry Pi OS is not according to our users
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