Best Linux Distros For Development And Programming: The most desired and ideal operating systems for programmers and developers are those based on Linux. The majority of developers utilize various Linux distributions to complete their work quickly and produce new work, but as a former developer, one of my main worries was, “Which Linux distro should I be looking at specifically?” Similar to this, compatibility, power, stability, and flexibility are some of the other factors to consider while selecting a Linux distribution for programming or software development.
Districts like Ubuntu and Debian have succeeded in cementing their positions as the leading Linux distributions for developers. Other excellent options include openSUSE, Arch Linux, etc. Remember to bring your credit card-sized Raspberry Pi, which you can use to learn how to code and create fascinating projects. See also our thorough guide on choosing the best Linux distributions for you. Also, read Best MangaInn Alternatives.
The Top 10 Linux Distros for Programmers in 2022
Top Linux Distros for programmers and developers are listed below.
- Debian GNU/Linux
- Ubuntu
- openSUSE
- Fedora
- Pop!_OS
- Arch Linux
- Solus OS
- Manjaro Linux
- Elementary OS
- Kali Linux
1. Debian GNU/Linux
There is no need to introduce Debian GNU/Linux. Its stable branch serves as the foundation for many other distributions, making it one of the most important ones while not being the most well-known. Debian’s reputation as a developer-friendly operating system is due to its abundance of packages and software support, both of which are necessary for developers. For experienced programmers and system administrators, it comes highly recommended.
2. Ubuntu
The most widely used Linux distribution for development is Ubuntu. It has developed through time to become one of the highlights of the Linux desktop environment, owing to the open-source community. It is a server- and cloud-based distribution based on Debian. It also comes in a variety of versions with various desktop environments and features to meet the varied needs of users. Also, read Best BobMovies Alternatives.
3. openSUSE
OpenSUSE is a very reliable operating system for programmers and can easily compete with Ubuntu because of its timely and professional development. There are two variations of this Linux distro available: Leap and Tumbleweed. Tumbleweed is a rolling release for individuals who enjoy the flavor of the most recent software, whereas openSUSE Leap is an LTS release that stays relatively current and ensures reliability. Tumbleweed is the solution if you want to test the newest cutting-edge hardware support.
4. Fedora
The community-driven Fedora project offers the most advanced operating system in a variety of editions tailored to specific use cases. The main sponsor of Fedora, Red Hat Inc., a well-known business in the Linux community, is what makes it the best. There are various editions of Fedora, including the Fedora workstation intended specifically for developers. It has a wide range of tools for configuring the development environment and is fairly stable.
5. Pop!_OS
In 2017, the US-based Linux hardware company System76 unveiled Pop! OS, a customized Ubuntu-based Linux system. Ubuntu took this action and embraced the already successful GNOME desktop environment after deciding to give up its own Unity desktop environment. They have now created their desktop environment, which they are calling COSMIC, which is based on GNOME but has additional features.
6. Arch Linux
For devoted Linx users who want total control over their operating system, Arch Linux is a top choice. Assume you’re going to build everything from scratch. Then you can use Arch Linux to create a customized operating system that might quickly turn into a fantastic Linux distribution for programming and other types of development. Look no further if you like rolling Linux distributions (here are some distinctions between fixed and rolling releases). Also, read Best AniMixPlay Alternatives.
7. Solus OS
And now, Solus appears. It has been discussed a few times in our earlier articles. It is one of the greatest distributions for programming because it comes with a tonne of programming tools right out of the box and is powered by the Budgie desktop environment. The “eopkg” package management is one of the challenges you can encounter if you’re switching from using Ubuntu. Although it’s not difficult to understand eopkg, you’ll need to take your time learning it.
8. Manjaro Linux
People who find installing Arch challenging choose Manjaro. Like Ubuntu or Linux Mint, it offers a simple GUI installer that makes the installation procedure much more straightforward. It’s ranking as the second most popular distribution by Distrowatch says a lot about the distro. The ideal for beginners seeking an Arch Linux alternative because it combines all of its capabilities. Additionally, Manjaro is available in three editions: GNOME, KDE, and XFCE, ensuring that you never miss out on your preferred desktop setting.
9. elementaryOS
But why is the most attractive Linux distribution listed here? While Ubuntu is one of the greatest Linux distributions for programmers, elementaryOS is also a fantastic Linux distribution in terms of appearance. Therefore, install elementaryOS if you want a wonderful balance of programming and a macOS-like experience. One of the first Linux distributions I tried while working toward my CS graduation was elementaryOS.
10. Kali Linux
Ethical hackers, primarily like the Kali Linux operating system from Offensive Security, conduct penetration testing on unprotected machines and networks. However, it can also be a useful resource for developers and programmers seeking a Linux distribution. It has a tonne of pre-installed tools in it. Let me be clear that it is not intended for those who are brand new to the Linux community.
Why Is Linux Beneficial For Developers And Programmers?
First of all, there isn’t a “best Linux distro for programming.” Any GNU/Linux operating system can be used to code as long as you know how to install the required development tools. We do, however, believe that Linux is the ideal operating system for programmers because the majority of web frameworks, tools, and code editors are also open-source, just like Linux. As a result, everything, when used together, feels like an ecosystem in itself and provides a good, seamless experience.
But why is Linux so superior to Windows, then? People still frequently believe that software, such as Windows, doesn’t work properly out of the box. There are other factors as well, such as gaming, which we discussed in our post on Linux gaming. While you’re here, read about the best Linux distributions for gaming.
To get started, you don’t need software licensing; instead, you can download any open-source tool for free, make modifications to its source code, substantially customize it to fit your development environments, and possibly create your own repository of the modified version on GitHub.
You can install the desktop environment of your choosing, experiment with various text editors, and personalize the terminal. Furthermore, Linux supports the majority of programming languages (provided they aren’t OS-specific). Last but not least, Linux knowledge is highly sought. Starting to use Linux now can gradually but surely advance your career.
Conclusion:
These Linux distributions are among the finest for programming and development, so to speak. Although there are many more distros, we just included the most well-known ones.
These distros are but a drop in the bucket. Please let us know if you’ve utilized a distribution that you believe belongs on this list. Check out our other posts on the top Linux distributions as well.
Send an email
