Hey everyone! I'm considering making the switch to Linux for my full-time usage and I'm looking for some recommendations. What I need is a distro that has a strong focus on security and privacy but is still simple enough for everyday tasks. I'd like a good GUI/desktop environment since I've enjoyed using GNOME in the past. I've also installed Arch on an old laptop, so I'm comfortable with some tinkering if necessary. Ultimately, I want something that finds a balance between security, usability, and isn't overloaded with unnecessary features. What are your thoughts on whether I should stick with Arch GNOME, or is there a better option out there?
4 Answers
For a distro focused on security and usability, look into the Ubuntu family, particularly Mint – it’s quite secure and comfortable for daily use. If you want something along the lines of Arch for its frequent updates but with less hassle, Fedora is definitely worth trying. Plus, with choices like Mint or Fedora, you can test them out using live USBs before committing!
There are plenty of options, but Fedora Workstation could be right up your alley. It offers good security features and has a polished GNOME experience. I've been using Arch with GNOME myself for a few months, and it’s been rock solid for me. Just a tip: when installing, go for "gnome-shell" instead of the full "gnome" package to avoid outdated bundled apps. Also, check out tools like "Ptyxis" for editing keyboard shortcuts and "Bazaar" for managing Flatpaks more easily.
If you want a solid choice without too much fuss, consider Debian 13 with GNOME. It's stable and gives you a good GNOME experience. Another option is to try out Mint if you prefer something that's user-friendly right out of the box. Plus, both options are known to keep things secure and updated regularly.
Have you checked out Manjaro? It’s like Arch but a bit more user-friendly, and you still get the benefits of a rolling release with the latest updates. It’s a secure way to enjoy GNOME while minimizing the tinkering you're concerned about. If you're up for exploring, it could be a good compromise.
I’m new to Mint too and I love it! The Cinnamon UI feels really intuitive, especially if you're coming from Windows. Seems like it could be a good fit for what you're looking for!