For generating apps and software, Linux-based operating systems have long been valued by programmers. Diverse Linux distros are used by developers to obtain the optimal coding environment and promptly carry out operations, hence enabling them to create original software. However, it becomes tough to find the best Linux distros for developers due to versatility, more precisely with more than 600 distros.
If you’re a programmer, you will already know the coding specifications. Notable aspects include adaptability, compatibility, durability, and strength. Therefore, if you are a programmer or want access to a developer- and coder-friendly environment, the best Linux Distros for Programmers, maybe your best option.
If you are nervous about finding the most excellent available options, relax. We have produced a list of the best Linux distros for developers.
Excited? Let’s get started.
Benefits of Best Linux Distro for Developers
Customization
Customizability is one of the fundamental features that make Linux the best platform for development. Because it is an open-source operating system, all programmers and developers can modify or create programs according to their needs. It produces a dependable environment for their growth.
Secure
The most advantageous of the best Linux Distros for beginners also provide a safer environment. It includes numerous features that protect the security of the developer’s apps.
Efficiency
There are numerous options available for the best Linux distro for developers. You will find many custom tools, libraries, etc., to assist you throughout the process, providing you with a comprehensive platform that enables you to write programs with much more freedom.
Best Linux Distro For Developers
Here is the list of the top-rated and Best Linux Distros For Programming And Development.
1. openSUSE
Lets talk about the popular Best Linux Distros for Experienced Developers. openSUSE is one of the top Linux distros for developers, and although it does not receive as much attention as Ubuntu, it can compete with it. OpenSUSE delivers a good coding environment, providing a competitive advantage over alternative options. The OpenSUSE project produces two different distributions. It contains openSUSE leap, the “fixed release cycle regular distribution,” and openSUSE tumbleweed, the “rolling release variant.”
OpenSUSE Leap is a Long-Term Support (LTS) release, which means it remains up-to-date while ensuring stability. OpenSUSE Tumbleweed is a rolling release for software-testing enthusiasts. Tumbleweed is the best option if you desire greater hardware compatibility with cutting-edge devices.
Which of the two options you select depends on the type of development you wish to engage in. These distros use the openSUSE YaST configuration tool, which allows you to customize the installation process based on your needs. A big advantage of openSUSE is the ability to download anything from the software portal website effortlessly.
Standout features:
- Continuous and periodic release
- Ideal for programmers
- Highly effective and flexible configuration tools
Download openSUSE
2. Solus
Solus is among the best Linux Distros for developers seeking a rolling distribution with high stability. It uses a rolling release format, so once you’ve downloaded the operating system on your PC, you can continue to run updates instead of the major upgrade. Furthermore, this best Linux OS aims to prevent the installation of the most recent packs and beta software to maintain system stability, hence providing coders with a thriving environment devoid of inequalities.
Solus Distro promotes itself as the designer of an ideal environment for developers and coders with its multiple features. It supports various editors and integrated development environments, including Gnome builder, Atom, and Idea, and different version control systems, including Bazaar, Git, etc., via graphical tools such as git-cola and GitKraken. Additionally, the website claims to support other programming languages, including Ruby, Go, Node.js, Rust, and PHP.
Although the distribution does not include as many tools as you imagine, you may obtain them quickly and easily using the development toolchain.
Standout features:
- A Curated distro with a rolling release
- Various editions
- Compatible with the development use-cases
3. Ubuntu
Ubuntu is one of the most popular and best Linux distros for developers. It has been advocated by the open-source community for years, making it the ideal option for programmers and notable novices. Ubuntu can be your initial option before moving on to more advanced options.
The distribution includes many pre-installed apps and helpful software to make life easier for coders and novices while saving them considerable time. Since the operating system also provides a steady release schedule, the Long term support (LTS) versions are supported for an extended period, offering a stable development environment that does not require frequent updates. Ubuntu is an excellent option if you desire tranquility and stability.
This best Linux distro 2022 is also the operating system for creating source files for the open-source Android product. As a result, the Android apps are continuously tested with the most recent Ubuntu versions. In addition, the official website of the distribution provides access to several lessons and guides, ensuring enhanced programming and development skills.
Every programming tool and the library is available in Ubuntu’s repositories (official) or within the PPA (Personal Package achieve). Furthermore, with the launch of its snap packaging method, new software may be installed easily.
Standout features:
- Distribution supporting Android source code
- A good option for novices
- It has numerous preinstalled apps and software.
4. Sabayon Linux
Sabayon is another excellent option on our list of the top Linux distros for developers. This best Linux distro for experts is related to Gentoo, a source-based meta-distribution that permits the rapid creation of bloat-free installations. The main disadvantage is that installing Gentoo Linux is difficult. Instead, Sabayon Linux compiles all of Gentoo’s best features and packages them into a more user-friendly distribution that is more suitable for a wider range of users.
The advantage of downloading Sabayon Linux is that it is available in various variants and is designed for desktop settings. The project aims to give a more comprehensive experience, and while being a rolling release, it shines in instability due to its tie to Gentoo. It is also anticipated that the project would merge with Funtoo, founded by the same developers as Gentoo Linux.
Sabayon Linux includes a few development tools, primarily for Python programmers, but you can install more. In addition, Gentoo’s renowned portage package management system will provide access to a vast library of tools, allowing you to download the ones you like.
Standout features:
- Numerous editions
- Gentoo-powered Linux distro
- Graphics tools
5. Manjaro
Manjaro is among the best Linux distros for developers due to its efficient development and usability. Arch Linux distro delivers a user-friendly environment with many bespoke, intuitive features that may be used with greater independence. Arch is one of the most potent distros; nevertheless, it is difficult to install; alternatively, you can rely on Manjaro Linux to deliver a comparable experience.
The greatest advantage of Manjaro is that it offers a customized environment suitable for developers. It is available in a variety of contexts and editions. Its feature is that it is adaptable to various user requirements. For Qt developers, the KDE edition of the Manjaro distribution contains several helpful tools, such as Qt Assistant and Qt designer, which can aid in the development process.
Therefore, this best linux distro for programming is a viable option for developers who wish to code with all the necessary support and in the optimal environment. It also states that the distribution includes the essential tools for creating and developing software for others. According to the website, Manjaro’s intuitive package manager makes it simple to install IDEs such as Qt creator, Netbeans, and KDevelop. Additionally, you can obtain libraries such as matplotlib, libnoise, and boost. Furthermore, you can easily access the AUR (Arch User Repository), which provides numerous libraries and utilities.
Standout features:
- Obtain a version that meets your specifications.
- Obtain intuitive, tailored tools
- Simpler to download distribution
6. Puppy Linux
Next in our list of the top-rated Linux Distros for programming and gaming is Puppy Linux. It is an excellent option if you are seeking the best Linux distro for developers reddit that will allow you to construct a new program on an older computer. It is an ultra-lightweight option with numerous distinct editions, primarily based on Slackware and Ubuntu. Using RAM, which is quick and has a quicker response rate, the operating system may be operated quickly. Additionally, you can anchor the distribution on your hard drive for greater efficiency.
Although Puppy Linux is a small-sized distribution, it immediately succeeds in terms of usefulness, making our list. It is tempting to believe that its small size implies it lacks features, but this is not the case. On the contrary, the distribution includes many utilities and apps that allow you to accomplish nearly any task on your desktop.
There are multiple ways to install apps on Puppy. SFS (SquashFS) files are a prevalent and practical solution. The compressed environment includes at least one program and all of its dependencies. If you wish to begin programming with this best Linux distro for advanced programmers, you can rely on the devx SFS files, which provide additional development tools and choices for efficient creation.
In addition, if you ever feel stuck or out of your depth, you may rely on the Puppy Linux Wiki page, which provides an excellent starting point for novice developers by demonstrating how to install several programming languages.
Standout features:
- Weightless distribution
- A simple and effective option
- An excellent option for novice developers
7. Fedora Workstation
Are you still seeking the popular and best Linux Distros for competitive programming? Fedora workstation is an excellent choice if you are looking for the best community-driven best Linux distro for developers 2022 reddit that also offers the most current operating system in multiple editions tailored to a specific use case. The most significant aspect of Fedora is its principal sponsor, Red Hat Inc., a well-known Linux network corporation.
The distro is a derivative of RHEL, which is more advanced than the CentOS stream. It is simple to install and configure and has a separate development porta. You can get guides on online development, desktop, mobile apps, and command lines by choosing “Start a project.” In addition, an unusual area is devoted to dealing with hardware devices like Arduino.
In addition, the Fedora repository contains Eclipse, a multilingual and feature-rich integrated development environment. Eclipse is well-known for Java, but it also includes PHP IDE. It is even extensible through the use of plugins, which is still another advantage of its use. Suppose you ever find yourself stuck or confused about something. In that case, you can visit the fedora forum and magazine, a very user-friendly platform that allows you to share your problems and difficulties, find reliable solutions, or learn more about the tools.
Standout features:
- Numerous versions
- Lack of equipment
- Developer-pleasant documentation
8. Debian GNU/Linux
This best Linux distro for programming reddit is a popular alternative since it is one of the earliest Linux distros designed to guarantee maximum stability. Many other distros are wholly based on Debian’s stable branch, making it a vital distribution. Every program distributed with Debian must adhere to the Debian Free Software requirements. Selecting and testing packages for inclusion in its stable branch. Besides, Debian is one of the most stable Linux distros for developers, even though some of its components may be outdated.
Debian’s official website contains many in-depth tutorials with numerous programming-related chapters, guiding you through the fundamentals of script generation, compilation, and Autoconf so that scripts can be produced on different distros. Therefore, it is an excellent option for system administrators and experienced programmers.
ALSO SEE: Google Analytics Plugin For WordPress
In addition, Debian provides a big repository of open-source software, allowing you to locate the needed library or program in minutes with no effort. Debian is, therefore, one of the best Linux distros for developers with advanced expertise and coding skills.
Standout features:
- Provides support
- Detailed Guides
- Perfect for experienced programmers
FAQs
What is the best Linux distro for developers suitable for older machines?
In this scenario, Puppy Linux is the best best Linux distro for competitive programming. It is a lightweight option that provides all the functions you may desire. In addition, its functionality is superior, ensuring you don’t miss out.
What is the most popular and best Linux distro for developers?
The most popular pick on our list remains Ubuntu. It is also ideal for various consumers, so both newbies and experienced developers can benefit from it.
What is the best Linux Distros for developers that provides stability?
Debian GNU/Linux is a good option if you’re searching for the most stable option on our list. It is designed to be stable and provides detailed guides to aid you.
Final Words
We have compiled a list of the best Linux distros for developers. However, since more than 600 distros are available, it might be challenging to locate and select those that meet the needs of developers and coders. Therefore, we have simplified it for you in the preceding list, which provides numerous options from which you may choose based on your functionality, requirements, and usage.