The best Linux distributions for Raspberry Pi

Raspberry Pi was released in 2012. Since then, this tiny computer and its "successors" have become an important part of countless projects. Although users can install Ubuntu on the Raspberry Pi, there are many more dedicated Linux distributions. Let's explore the best Linux distributions for the Raspberry Pi through the following article.

1. Raspbian

Raspbian is the best starting point. This distribution is officially supported by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, so readers will find a lot of documents. There are also lots of software installed so users can get started right away.

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Raspbian, just as its name implies, is based on Debian, but there are a few adjustments. It uses PIXEL as the main desktop. This distribution is very light, so it runs faster on Raspberry Pi. Most of the installed software is for general computer use, education and programming. In addition, Python, Scratch, Sonic Pi, Java, etc. are also included.

2. RecalBox

There are many Linux distributions that turn Raspberry Pi into a retro gaming machine, but the RecalBox is one of the easiest to use software. It supports a range of 8-bit or more arcade game consoles and game consoles. Depending on available hardware, users may not be able to run some games. In general, most games will run well.

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One of the biggest advantages of RecalBox is that it supports many hardware. A variety of gamepads, joysticks, arcade sticks and many other hardware all work with this distribution. Readers can find a list of supported hardware on RecalBox.com website.

3. RuneAudio

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While RecalBox aims to turn Raspberry Pi into a compact arcade, RuneAudio wants to turn it into a Jukebox (a jukebox that automatically loads and releases discs).

RuneAudio can play the entire digital music library, whether from USB plugged into Raspberry Pi or NAS accessed over the network. This distribution works on Windows and Linux computers as well as Android-powered mobile devices.

Popular audio formats such as FLAC, WAVE, MP3 and ALAC are also supported.

4. LibreELEC

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If you're looking to use the Raspberry Pi to replace Roku or Apple TV, LibreELEC may be what you're looking for. The LibreELEC website describes this distribution as a 'just enough for Kodi' operating system, and that's exactly what the article wants to say about this distribution.

Kodi is the popular media center software. After a simple setup process, users can stream all content. LibreELEC is a lightweight distribution that provides everything you need to run Kodi and nothing else. This is a plus for using media center unless you are looking for a distribution for general computer use purposes.

5. OpenMediaVault

So far, most of the distributions that the article mentioned are intended to make using Raspberry Pi more interesting.

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For use in home or small business settings, OpenMediaVault can coordinate with Network Attached Storage (NAS). Based on Debian, this distribution has services such as SSH, (S) FTP, SMB / CIFS, RSync, etc. Just attach the archive and connect to the network, then use the admin panel Web-based to set it up the way you want.

Users will find great options on the list above, but not all of them are limited in Raspberry Pi. Some distributions, such as RecalBox and LibreELEC, also support other hardware. If you are wondering what are some other options, TipsMake.com has a list of the 5 best Raspberry Pi alternatives you may want to refer to. If you don't want to use Linux distros, you can also install another operating system for Raspberry Pi.

Wish you find the right choice!