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Best Linux Distributions in 2026

This category covers Linux operating systems and tools used with them. This list is for readers comparing software they can use without paying.

  1. 1

    AlmaLinux OS

    Free plan Open source APILinuxSelf-hosted+1

    AlmaLinux OS offers broad deployment options, security errata, and community support without a distribution fee. Its stated update plans vary by major version, and commercial support is separate.

    9.3 Free plan Visit site
  2. 2

    Kali Linux

    Free plan Open source AndroidLinuxMac+2

    Kali Linux offers a broad security-testing environment across many deployment types, with live and custom-image options.

    9.1 Free plan Visit site
  3. 3

    Manjaro Linux

    Free plan Open source LinuxSelf-hosted

    Choose Manjaro if you want a free Arch-based Linux distribution with tested rolling updates, graphical software management, and several official desktop editions.

    8.6 Free plan Visit site
  4. 4

    Pop!_OS

    Free plan Open source Linux

    Choose Pop!_OS for a free Linux desktop with adjustable tiling, flexible panels, and APT and Flatpak support.

    8.4 Free plan Visit site
  5. 5

    Amazon Linux

    Free plan LinuxSelf-hosted

    Choose AL2023 for AWS-oriented Linux deployments that need EC2 integration, selectable updates, and a support lifecycle through June 30, 2029.

    7.3 Free plan Visit site
  6. 6

    Debian

    Free plan LinuxSelf-hosted

    Debian offers a large package collection, broad architecture support, and multiple installation and deployment options at no cost.

    7.3 Free plan Visit site
  7. 7

    elementary OS

    Free plan Linux

    elementary OS combines a Linux desktop, everyday applications, workspaces, and a pay-what-you-can app store.

    7.1 Free plan Visit site
  8. 8

    Rocky Linux

    Free plan LinuxSelf-hostedWindows

    Rocky Linux offers a free RHEL-compatible system with broad deployment formats and a long major-release lifecycle.

    7.0 Free plan Visit site
  9. 9

    Linux Mint

    Free plan Linux

    Linux Mint provides a free desktop system with three editions, built-in apps and a software manager. Check the hardware requirements and driver setup needs for your computer before installing it.

    6.9 Free plan Visit site
  10. 10

    Void Linux

    Free plan LinuxSelf-hosted

    Void Linux combines a rolling-release model with XBPS package management and runit service supervision.

    6.7 Free plan Visit site
  11. 11

    Solus

    Free plan Linux

    Solus offers four desktop choices, rolling updates, and built-in software management for x86-64 personal computers.

    6.6 Free plan Visit site
  12. 12

    Zorin OS

    Free plan Linux

    Zorin OS offers a free desktop edition, flexible app installation options and tools for Windows-app compatibility and Android connection.

    6.5 Free plan Visit site
  13. 13

    Tails

    Free plan Linux
    5.9 Free plan Visit site
  14. 14

    Red Hat

    Paid
    4.2 Visit site

#1Places #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 on this list can be bought by the makers of the software on it. See the price

Compare the pricing model, free-plan terms, open-source licence, and supported platforms before choosing. Depending on the entry, supported environments range from Linux and self-hosted systems to Windows, macOS, the web, or an API.

Questions

Do these tools have free plans?

Yes. Listed entries include free plans, and pricing models can be free or freemium.

Do any entries provide open-source code?

Yes. Deepin Boot Maker and Oracle Linux Virtualization Manager are listed with open-source code.

Which platforms do these tools support?

The list includes support for Linux, self-hosted environments, Windows, macOS, web, and API use.

What should I compare before choosing?

Compare pricing model, free-plan terms, open-source licensing, and the platforms you need.

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