4 Fedora-based Linux distributions that are even better than Fedora.
If you've been following the Linux market for a while, you'll probably know that Fedora Linux isn't the most popular distribution. However, the ecosystem surrounding Fedora is very rich, with many 'copycat' distributions that are better suited to specific user groups. In fact, there are quite a few Fedora-based distributions that I'd readily recommend, and even prefer over the original Fedora.
Fedora is one of the most popular and highly recommended Linux distros today. It has a long history, is backed by Red Hat, and serves as the official community branch of Red Hat Enterprise Linux. Thanks to its wide reach, Fedora has both officially certified 'Fedora Spins' and numerous independent distributions based on Fedora. Below are some of the most prominent examples.
Bazzite – SteamOS for PC, but based on Fedora.
Bazzite can be seen as a direct replacement for SteamOS. You can configure the system to boot directly into Steam Big Picture mode, providing a console-like experience, similar to Steam Deck.
I myself once used Bazzite on a mini PC connected to my living room TV as a 'home gaming machine'. Although that mini PC was later repurposed, the time I spent using Bazzite was truly enjoyable.
A major plus for Bazzite is its Bazaar software browsing application. Finding good software on the Linux desktop isn't easy, as many open-source projects exist in a fragmented way. The Bazaar app store, focused on Flatpak, does a pretty good job of curating, helping users access useful software more quickly.
Unlike SteamOS (based on Arch Linux), Bazzite is built on Fedora Silverblue – an immutable Linux distribution. This model offers distinct advantages in stability and security compared to traditional Linux. In other words, simply booting Bazzite puts you on a more modern approach to Linux.
Nobara – Fedora, exclusively for gamers.
Nobara Linux is also geared towards gamers, similar to Bazzite, and has clear support for handheld gaming devices. This distro is developed by GloriousEggroll – the name behind ProtonGE, which is considered the 'gold standard' for running Windows games on Linux.
Unlike Bazzite, Nobara is based on the standard Fedora Linux instead of Silverblue. Whether this is a good thing or not depends on your perspective. Immutable distros are still relatively new, so community support and technical documentation revolving around traditional Fedora are generally easier to find, which is beneficial for newcomers.
If your primary goal when switching to Linux is gaming, Nobara is a very worthwhile option. Its installation process is even quite interesting, as the setup menu allows you to play a small game while waiting for it to complete.
Qubes OS – Where security comes first
Qubes OS is the most 'out of place' name on this list, and also the distro I wouldn't recommend for the average user. It's designed for those who prioritize security and privacy above all else. If you feel that a standard firewall or antivirus isn't enough, Qubes OS might be for you.
Qubes operates in a rather complex way. The system requires users to divide their digital lives into multiple different 'secure domains,' with data tightly isolated between these domains. This is a very clever way to prevent data leaks to unnecessary areas.
Technically, only the Qubes administration domain runs Fedora. Users can use Debian or other distros as 'templates' to install software, making the Qubes ecosystem much more diverse and flexible than a typical Fedora.
Unlike Fedora, Qubes OS has been publicly endorsed by the Freedom of the Press Foundation and Edward Snowden. Many consider Qubes to be one of the best Linux distributions in terms of security currently available.
Ultramarine Linux – Fedora for general users
One of the things that I don't particularly like about Fedora is the hassle of installing and updating non-free software. This stems from Fedora's philosophy: not pre-distributing certain multimedia codecs and proprietary software.
Ultramarine Linux addresses this issue directly. When installing the operating system, non-free software is already integrated or at least very easily accessible. You can use VLC and install familiar applications from Windows without any extra hassle. Ultramarine's goal is clear: 'Get started as quickly as possible'.
Another important difference is that Ultramarine has Flatpak enabled by default. For me, this is a huge advantage, as Flatpak opens up a whole world of richer, more up-to-date, and safer software.
If Bazzite and Nobara are suitable for gamers, and Qubes for those extremely concerned about security, then Ultramarine is the distro for general desktop or laptop users. It doesn't try to do anything too special, but focuses on helping you use your computer the way you want.
Ultimately, although I'm not a huge fan of the original Fedora Workstation, I understand that it can suit many people. And the best thing about Linux is that there's no hard and fast formula. You're completely free to choose the path that works for you.
