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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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Why is Debian always left out of the distro recommendations? (lemmy.zip)

submitted 2 months ago by UnfinishedProjects@lemmy.zip to c/linux@lemmy.ml

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I distro hopped for a bit before finally settling in Debian (because Debian was always mentioned as a distro good for servers, or stable machines that are ok with outdated software)

And while I get that Debian does have software that isn't as up to date, I've never felt that the software was that outdated. Before landing on Debian, I always ran into small hiccups that caused me issues as a new Linux user - but when I finally switched over to Debian, everything just worked! Especially now with Debian 13.

So my question is: why does Debian always get dismissed as inferior for everyday drivers, and instead mint, Ubuntu, or even Zorin get recommended? Is there something I am missing, or does it really just come down to people not wanting software that isn't "cutting edge" release?

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[–] mech@feddit.org 52 points 2 months ago (16 children)

People asking for distro recommendations usually ask for their desktop.

Debian is great, but it's hardly ever the best choice for a desktop, at least not for the kind of people who ask for distro recommendations.

[–] makingStuffForFun@lemmy.ml 16 points 2 months ago (15 children)

I've used it for a few years. What issue does it have for a desktop? I've had everything "just work".

[–] jollyrogue@lemmy.ml 6 points 2 months ago

GPU drivers and DEs lagging behind, mostly.

Something like Fedora which releases newer code quicker will provide a better desktop/laptop experience. It’s the same reason other stable distros, like the EL distros, aren’t the best for desktops/laptops.

Historically, desktop applications would also be versions behind, but Flatpak really helps with this.

At this point, Debian is probably fine as a distro for a few year old computer that won’t be helped by fractional scaling. Pick a DE and install applications from Flathub.

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