What is the difference between Rolling Release and Point Release releases?

Any software development can be classified into two categories, including the standard Point Release model and Rolling Release. Developing Linux distributions also uses one of these development cycles.

Before diving into the Rolling Release (constantly updated release), let's have a quick summary of the standard Point Release release model (with a minor release of each major release) so you can decide which one is right for me. Both development models have their own pros and cons.

Developed according to the standard Point Release model

The release of the standard Point Release model has been around for a long time and is primarily seen in software development models. In this system, newly created software versions must be reinstalled to replace the previous version. A Point Release-style release is often referred to as a small release of a software project, specifically targeted to fix bugs.

A major release was released to add new important features. For example, consider the development of Android, Android 7.0 is Nougat, a notable release from Android 6.0 Marshmallow. Android 7.1 Nougat is a small Point Release, followed by the main Android 8.0 Oreo release and the Point Release Android 8.1 Oreo release.

It is essential to know that there will be an 'End of Life ' (commonly abbreviated as EOL, meaning death) for each version of this development model, after which the developer group will not broadcast. Issue updates again. Without an update, security holes and compatibility issues with the latest hardware will appear.

Several major Linux distributions follow this system, including Ubuntu, Linux Mint, elementary OS, Fedora, etc.

Developed by Rolling Release model

In the Rolling Release development model, updates are continually released and therefore no minor or major releases are available. Updates are released regularly (varies by distribution) across all areas of the operating system, including the Linux kernel, desktop environment, and all applications.

This means that the operating system is always up to date and there is no death for any version, as long as the distribution is maintained. Linux distributions often release what is called a snapshot, which is an ISO image containing updates on that particular day.

Arch Linux, Solus, OpenSUSE, Manjaro, PCLinuxOS, Debian, Antergos, Gentoo are some popular Linux distributions in Rolling Release style.

Which option is best for you?

So which form of release is best? There is no right answer for everyone. The differences between these two distribution models are stability, convenience, hardware support, and new features.

If you have an old computer whose hardware is identified and supported by the distribution you want to use, then the Point Release model is the right choice for you. That way, you can be sure that your PC will never crash due to hardware compatibility.

It should be stressed once again that the Rolling Release release comes with important updates, including the Linux Kernel and hardware drivers, through daily updates. On an old computer, this might be overkill.

Not only old PCs, some new PCs may also work well on one distribution, but cannot be handled properly by another distribution. That's when you need the Point Release model. One more reason to choose Point Release is to maintain the customization, appearance and feel, as well as the themes that you have applied. You don't want to see them constantly changing, do you?

On the other hand, Rolling Release distributions are the right option, if you have a modern PC and don't mind changing things. The most significant advantage of Rolling Release is that you always get the latest technology faster than Point Release.