I'm looking to choose a Linux distribution that prioritizes stability above all else. I have a HP Envy X360 14 with a Ryzen 8640HS processor, 16GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD, plus a 2.8K OLED display. Given these specs, do they suggest any particular distro that might work best for me, especially in handling features like support for high-resolution screens and the hardware I have?
While many recommend Linux Mint for beginners, I don't need the simplest option. I care about a stable environment for tasks like browsing with Chromium (and potentially switching to Brave and Bitwarden), installing web apps, and connecting my Brother printer, Logitech mouse, and ensuring my Mediatek WiFi works flawlessly for Bluetooth audio and peripherals. I also need a reliable way to sync some of my files from Google Drive, although that's not my primary concern. I'm thinking about trying out Jellyfin on a home server later.
Any suggestions for a distribution that ticks all these boxes? I've heard debate about Mint versus Ubuntu with GNOME but haven't explored the differences yet.
4 Answers
Debian is highly recommended for its stability, as it manages software dependencies well, ensuring everything runs smoothly. I run it on both old and new hardware without issue. Just be sure to check if your specific hardware, like the printer and WiFi, is supported. And yes, there are third-party apps that can sync Google Drive locally, though I typically just use the browser.
I've been using Linux Mint for over three years, and I can vouch for its stability. Everything you mentioned—Google Drive access, browsers, and printers—works smoothly. I access my Google files directly through the file manager as a network drive without syncing them locally since my internet is fast enough.
If you're all about stability, Debian is often the go-to choice. It's extremely solid and well-supported, particularly with its repositories which prioritize tested software. Issues with drivers are generally shared among distributions, so you might run into the same problems with the Mediatek WiFi card across different distros. Just a heads up, switching to an Intel card could solve a lot of inconsistencies. Otherwise, pick a Desktop Environment (DE) you like, knowing you can change it later!
Thanks! I think I'll check out some videos to find out more about Debian.
Honestly, any well-maintained distro should do the trick. If stability is your main concern, though, Debian is a solid choice. Just remember that anything involving hardware support can be a bit tricky, so check specific compatibility for your devices.
Sounds good! Accessing Google Drive through the network sounds convenient.