8 Best Linux Distros for Chromebooks

Limited features, minimal customizability, and easy target for various attacks make privacy a major concern. As a result, Chromebook users are always looking for alternative operating systems that offer flexibility and customization.

That makes Linux the most suitable choice for Chromebooks because it provides the features that users demand. This article will suggest some of the best Linux distributions for Chromebooks for you to choose from.

1. BunsenLabs Linux

BunsenLabs is an upgrade of the Debian-based CrunchBang Linux distribution. It offers minimal power usage, many useful scripts, and quick access to any part of the system. Desktop Openbox consumes limited resources and is ideal for proficient users who run scripts and require immediate access to system resources.

BunsenLabs Linux is suitable for Chromebook users with configurations and packages on Debian Linux. Therefore, BunsenLabs Linux is the best choice for Chromebook users who want minimal resource consumption, simple desktop environment, limitless customization and software availability.

2. Arch Linux

Arch Linux is one of the most popular Linux distributions. It is ideal for experienced users and developers, as it allows for extensive customization and support thanks to its basic DIY philosophy and large online community support.

Arch Linux is extremely lightweight as it comes with only one kernel and terminal. This distro may seem a bit intimidating for new users, however, you can install any desktop environment and have the flexibility to manage any components or packages you need in your system. Therefore, Arch Linux becomes ideal for installation on Chromebooks.

3. elementary OS

As the name suggests, elementary OS is the Ubuntu LTS-based distribution best suited for new Linux users. It has a macOS-like user interface and clean design with great support from the Ubuntu community.

Since it has all the advantages of Ubuntu, package management is relatively easy and you can also use snap to download third-party applications. The installation image of elementary OS is available for free download on its official website.

4. GalliumOS

GalliumOS is a standalone Linux operating system based on Ubuntu that was developed specifically as an alternative to Chromebooks. It's an efficient operating system that offers maximum compatibility and support on limited hardware.

Besides, it provides better user experience by providing dual boot support, XFCE desktop environment, Chrome OS mouse driver support and extended battery life. The best part is the debugging feature on Chromebooks, which is not available in other distributions.

5. Lubuntu

Lubuntu is another lightweight and energy efficient version of Ubuntu with the LXDE desktop environment. The distro has a modern feel with minimal hardware requirements, ideal for Chromebooks with little RAM and storage.

Windows users will find Lubuntu much more familiar and easy to use. Thus, novice users can install Linux with minimal requirements and feel like they are using Windows on their Chromebook.

6. Solus

Solus is an ideal operating system for beginner Linux users who want a Windows-like experience on their Chromebook. It was built from the ground up and targeted at newbies with a wide range of features, pre-installed apps, and exclusive desktop environments. The possibilities it provides don't stop here but are best for experienced users as 4 desktop environments are available, each with distinct features and capabilities.

The downside of Solus is that it takes up a lot of storage space compared to other Linux distributions for Chromebooks.

7. Void Linux

Void Linux offers users a lot of customization and security support due to its huge online community. It is a rolling release distribution with efficient booting and many C standard libraries. Besides, it has a separate package management system and allows users to build packages from source.

The distro provides 8 types of desktop environments and replaces the initialization process from systemd to runit. However, it is not suitable for beginners because there are some compatibility issues.

8. Phoenix Linux

8 Best Linux Distros for Chromebooks Picture 1

Although Cub Linux is similar to Chrome OS in form and function, the creators stopped developing after a year of release. So you may not find a new stable version of Cub Linux because Phoenix Linux is the sequel to that project.

Phoenix Linux uses the Openbox window manager and tries to be a clone of Mac and Windows, making it very simple and efficient to use on Chromebooks. Although Phoenix Linux comes pre-installed with many applications and offers an intuitive user interface, it is still unstable. Before downloading, it's important to know that the latest version of Phoenix OS ALPHA 2 is not as stable as it was in earlier development.

Chromebooks are typically cheap, low-power, and very useful because they run on a simple operating system with a web-based interface. As a result, installing Linux gives you further customization and flexibility when it comes to scripting and developing/debugging applications.

Besides, the performance and portability of Linux distros go hand in hand with Chromebook key features. Therefore, installing Linux on Chromebook enhances its system functionality and advantages.

Jessica Tanner

Update 18 March 2022