The 5 fastest Linux distributions I’ve tested – and all are free!

RedoxOS: A remarkable innovation combining microkernel and Rust for extreme performance

RedoxOS stands out for its unique architecture among Linux distributions. It is not built on the traditional monolithic Linux kernel, but uses a microkernel, a lighter and more modular concept that aims to reduce the active code surface. This approach inherently contributes to improving system speed and stability. Furthermore, RedoxOS is written in Rust, a modern programming language known for its execution speed and memory safety. The choice of Rust is not insignificant. This language offers a memory management paradigm that avoids common errors found in C or C++, while still delivering high performance, positioning RedoxOS as a particularly powerful distribution. Furthermore, the COSMIC desktop environment, also developed in Rust by System76, serves as a direct inspiration for its smooth and fast graphical interface.RedoxOS also stands out for its minimalist policy regarding pre-installed applications. This intentional simplicity eliminates most background services, freeing up system resources and reducing startup and program execution latencies. Included applications include a file manager, terminal, Minecraft client, image viewer, and calendar. This selection, while limited, is carefully chosen to deliver a fast and consistent user experience. However, it should be noted that RedoxOS is still under active development, with version 0.9.0 still not fully compatible with everyday use. Some features remain experimental, which may cause frustration for users seeking a completely stable experience. However, this system undoubtedly represents a fascinating glimpse of what the next generation of Linux OSes could be, with unprecedented speed and robustness.For those interested in testing this innovative OS, it is freely available for download. Installing it will provide an opportunity to discover a new operating system philosophy where performance meets security, while maintaining an open source approach. Its architecture brings it closer to experimental projects like

Bcachefs

in terms of resource optimization, although RedoxOS remains more ambitious in its kernel redesign.

Architecture uses a minimalist microkernel.

Written entirely in Rust, guaranteeing speed and security. Fast COSMIC interface derived from the same language. Lightweight and few applications to maximize speed.

  • Project in progress, still experimental. Discover our selection of the 5 fastest Linux distributions to boost your computer’s performance, whether for everyday use or to revive an old machine. It’s ideal for finding the system that’s right for you!
  • Linux Lite: Speed ​​and Simplicity for Users Seeking Efficiency
  • Linux Lite positions itself as a lightweight distribution designed to breathe new life into older computers while providing a modern, fast and enjoyable experience. Its secret lies in the use of a modified
  • Xfce
  • environment, renowned for its low resource consumption, responsive interface, and extensive customization options, while remaining simple.
This distribution wastes no time with superfluous visual effects: the focus is on productivity and speed. Upon installation, Linux Lite deploys a complete set of applications that covers essential needs: the Chrome web browser, the LibreOffice office suite (including the Base tool for managing databases), the GIMP image editor, a photo manager, a backup tool like Deja Dup, and audio and video players like VLC. This diversity maintains a balance between functionality and speed.

Linux Lite is particularly suitable for individuals or professionals who have machines with modest technical specifications but want to maintain a stable, powerful, and familiar OS. Its minimalist architecture allows you to take full advantage of recent improvements to the

Linux kernel , particularly the improvements introduced in Linux 6.17 recently announced

, optimizing memory management and file performance.

One of Linux Lite’s strengths is its broad hardware compatibility as well as its active community that provides tailored tutorials, greatly benefiting new Linux users. Its open source model guarantees free access to the distribution, with the ability to install the system on an unlimited number of devices. This makes it an excellent candidate among fast and free distributions. Xfce environment tuned for speed.Relevant applications pre-installed and optimized. Compatibility with many hardware configurations.Optimized for older PCs, ideal for reuse.

Large community and accessible support.

  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDOLpafGM48
  • Xubuntu: Balance between speed and customization with Xfce
  • Xubuntu is an official version of Ubuntu that leverages the lightweight and flexible nature of the Xfce environment, making this distribution a fast, stable, and extensible solution. It is particularly recommended for those who want a fast system while maintaining a familiar and customizable interface.
  • Its default selection of applications is well-suited to cover a wide range of common uses, including Firefox, Thunderbird for email, LibreOffice for office tasks, as well as powerful multimedia tools and file managers. This selection avoids overload while providing users with a solid foundation.
  • A major advantage of Xubuntu lies in its flexibility: the layout of interface elements can be easily modified without impacting system speed. However, caution is advised, as improper configuration, which is possible with Xfce, can affect stability. Administrators and advanced users are therefore advised to test their configuration before deployment. Thanks to its Ubuntu base, Xubuntu also benefits from access to a vast library of packaged software as well as the latest kernel and module developments, as detailed on
LinuxEncaja

. This synergy guarantees a fast OS capable of adapting to current needs without sacrificing extensibility.

Based on Ubuntu for stability and support.

Configurable high-performance Xfce environment.

Pre-installed essential applications.

Minimalist interface for easy concentration. Large ecosystem of compatible software.Discover our selection of the 5 fastest Linux distributions, ideal for boosting your computer’s performance, even with older hardware. Enjoy a lightweight, secure, and easy-to-use system!

  • Bodhi Linux: Moksha, a unique, fast, and customizable desktop environment
  • Bodhi Linux stands out for its Moksha environment, an interface based on the Enlightenment window manager. This technical choice not only gives it an aesthetically different look from traditional desktops, but also a responsiveness and lightness that are surprisingly fluid.
  • Moksha is highly configurable, with menus accessible by right-clicking on the desktop, allowing you to launch applications or customize the system without having to navigate through cluttered panels. In addition, a unique feature is the ability to minimize windows to “blinds,” leaving only their title bars visible, thus facilitating multitasking without resorting to the classic minimize/maximize function.
  • This distribution is popular among users with aging hardware or those looking for a fast alternative to heavier desktops like GNOME or KDE. Despite its unusual appearance, Bodhi Linux offers a stable system with a modern kernel capable of taking advantage of the latest file system and cache management optimizations, as evidenced by the advances in EXT4 support under Linux 6.17
  • and other optimizations
.

Available for free, Bodhi Linux appeals to fans of technical originality while promising a fast and efficient experience. It represents an interesting alternative to other fast distributions like

Lubuntu

, antiX, or

Peppermint OS , which rely more on a classic look.Moksha desktop environment based on Enlightenment.

Lightweight yet visually appealing interface. Innovative window management method.Direct access to configurations via a context menu. Enhanced stability thanks to a recent Linux kernel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hOOqwepETs Puppy Linux: Extreme speed and compatibility on older hardware thanks to a unique conceptPuppy Linux is a family of distributions designed to take advantage of very limited hardware resources while maintaining an efficient user experience. Over the years, this project has deployed different variants based on Ubuntu, Debian, and Void Linux, offering a wide range of options to suit users’ preferences and specific needs.

  • Puppy Linux’s distinctive features are its minimal RAM usage and the ability to run entirely in live mode, without requiring persistent installation on the hard drive. This capability makes it ideal for resurrecting outdated 32- or 64-bit PCs, restoring unexpected fluidity.
  • Another key feature is the PPM (Puppy Package Manager). It allows for the rapid installation of applications from specific or third-party repositories, allowing for system expansion without complicating the base environment. Its modularity is invaluable for balancing lightweight design and functionality. Puppy Linux also satisfies users concerned about fast startup and application execution, thanks to a highly optimized system configuration to limit disk access and maximize memory usage. This approach is consistent with current Linux performance trends, also exemplified by other fast and small distributions like Slax, Absolute Linux, and MX Linux.
  • Adaptable to 32- and 64-bit architectures.
  • Can be run live for quick testing.
  • A dedicated package manager promotes lightweight performance.
Revives older hardware thanks to its low power consumption.

Active community support and free to use.

Discover the 5 fastest Linux distributions in 2024 to boost your computer’s performance. Ideal for old or new PCs, lightweight and efficient!