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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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What are the differences between the 'base' of various Linux distributions? (slrpnk.net)

submitted 3 months ago* (last edited 3 months ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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I've been using linux desktop for a year or so now. One noteable thing i keep seeing is that one person will say I dont like XYZ distrobution because of its base. But I am still a little unsure what is meant by it. I am assuming the main difference between each base is the choice of package management(?). But what other factors/aspects that are important for the average user to know about each 'base'? This is probably quite a broad question to a rather technical answer, but appriciate any answers, and i'll try my best to understand and read up :)

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[–] [email protected] 3 points 3 months ago* (last edited 3 months ago) (1 children)

Unfortunately, perhaps understandably so, popularity is very hard to measure on Linux. Though, while far from representative, ProtonDB's measurements do exist and provide us some insights. As for the distros found on the chart:

Arch (base):
- Endeavour
- Garuda^[1]^
- Manjaro
Debian (base):
- Ubuntu
  - Linux Mint^[2]^
  - Pop_OS!
Fedora (base):
- Nobara
NixOS
openSUSE

Note that Flatpak is not a distribution, but a packaging format.

BoilingSteam's article in which their thoughts and reflections are written can be found here.

While it's technically not labeled, the blue-colored columns found right below openSUSE belong to Garuda; as can be seen here (from an earlier iteration of the graph).
Technically, Linux Mint also has their Debian Edition. But, the vast majority of its users should be using the one based directly on Ubuntu.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 3 months ago

This is what I'm looking for, major thanks!