Best Linux Distros for Developers in 2025

Building a software application means you need speed, control, and stability right from the start, and that all begins with your development setup. A Linux distribution, or “distro,” is basically a packaged version of the Linux operating system. It comes with tools, interfaces, and system utilities. But not all distros are the same.

The distro you pick makes a big difference. It helps speed up your workflow.

Moreover, it will cause fewer problems with your system. Some distros are super fast and lightweight. Others come with plenty of features and are easier to work with. The truth is, the right distro for you depends on your setup, what you’re building, and what you like best. Let’s jump in and see the top Linux distros for 2025 that developers are choosing. But first, let’s look at a simple comparison table. It’ll help you quickly spot which distro could be the right fit for you.

#Linux Distros Comparison

#10 Best Linux Distros for Developers in 2025

Picking the right Linux distribution is important because the wrong choice can lead to serious issues down the line, such as

• Missing key capabilities you'll need later.
• Performance bottlenecks.
• Security vulnerabilities.
• Extra maintenance and troubleshooting overhead.

We put together this list by looking at a few key things. Those factors are

• How stable each distro is,
• How friendly it is for development,
• How big and active its ecosystem is,
• How easy it is to use overall,
• And how much control and customization it gives you.

#1. Ubuntu 24.04 LTS

Ubuntu 24.04 LTSis the latest long-term support version released by Canonical. It continues the usual focus on long-term stability and regular security updates. It’s based on Debian, so you can expect it to keep things dependable and run without much fuss. Many developers still prefer it, especially for cloud work, desktop setups, and using Linux inside Windows through WSL. It comes with better ZFS support and built-in tools like Cloud-init and Netplan to manage servers or virtual machines.

#Key Features

• Extended LTS support
  Comes with five years of free security updates, plus five more years through Ubuntu Pro.

• Snap and APT package systems
  Offers flexible software installation and isolated package management.

• WSL 2 integration
  Provides smooth development on Windows using the Windows Subsystem for Linux.

• Improved ZFS support
  Advanced file system capabilities with snapshotting and rollback functionality.

• Systemd boot improvements
  Faster and more reliable system startup.

• Cloud-init and Netplan tools
  Built-in for simplified cloud provisioning and networking.

#Pros

• Backed by a massive global community with thousands of tutorials and solutions.
• The default choice for many cloud providers and CI/CD platforms.
• Well-documented developer tools and package repositories.
• Stable desktop environment with excellent support for GNOME.

#Cons

• Snap packages can be slower to load compared to traditional formats.
• Not as lightweight as minimal or custom-built distros.
• Some developers dislike Canonical’s decisions around proprietary integrations.
• Limited access to the latest software without adding PPAs or Flatpaks.

#2. Fedora

Fedora is an open-source project with a large development community. It also receives support from Red Hat, which helps with infrastructure and resources. Fedora is known for bringing in new open-source tools and features earlier than other distributions. If you want the newest tools but also a reliable system, Fedora is a great option. And since it’s tied to Red Hat, it’s well-suited for enterprise work too.

#Key Features

• SELinux security
  Applies strict access controls to protect system integrity.

• Modular repository
  Offers multiple versions of key packages to suit different development needs.

• Powerful container tools
  Strong integration with Podman, Buildah, and other container utilities.

#Pros

• Quick access to the newest open-source development tools and technologies.
• Backed by Red Hat and offers a path toward enterprise Linux familiarity.
• Excellent compatibility with Wayland, systemd, and other contemporary Linux components.
• Reliable security defaults are ideal for development and testing.
• Vibrant community and extensive documentation.

#Cons

• Doesn’t get support as long as LTS versions like Ubuntu.
• Updates come often, so you’ll need to check and test more.
• Not ideal if you want stable use without constant upgrades.
• A bit harder to use for beginners compared to Ubuntu or Mint.

#3. Manjaro

Manjaro is a Linux distro that's based on Arch, but it's way easier to use. It gives you a beginner-friendly desktop, with simple installers and settings that are pretty much ready to go. A lot of developers like it because they can get the latest software easily. They can also use the Arch User Repository without spending hours setting things up from scratch.

#Key Features

• Rolling release model
  Continuous updates keep software up-to-date without the need for reinstallations.

• Access to AUR
  Provides a large collection of user-maintained packages for nearly any tool or library.

• Multiple desktop editions
  Offers XFCE, KDE Plasma, and GNOME variants meant for different preferences.

• Hardware detection
  Automatic driver installation supports a wide range of devices out of the box.

• User-friendly tools
  Includes graphical package managers and system utilities for easier maintenance.

#Pros

• Combines Arch’s flexibility with user-friendly installation and configuration.
• Frequent updates keep development tools and libraries fresh.
• Large community and informative documentation.
• Strong hardware support minimizes setup issues.
• Ideal for developers wanting a balance of power and ease.

#Cons

• Rolling release can sometimes introduce instability or breakages.
• Less stable than some LTS-focused distros in terms of long-term support.
• Some users find frequent updates demanding in terms of maintenance.
• Smaller community compared to Ubuntu or Fedora.

#4. Pop!_OS

Pop OS is a Linux distro by System76. It’s built on Ubuntu and is ideal for developers and creators who want a reliable system. One big plus is that it supports hybrid graphics out of the box. This makes it a great choice for people working with AI or machine learning, where GPU power is important for heavy tasks.

#Key Features

• Hybrid GPU support
  Automatic switching between integrated and dedicated GPUs optimizes power and performance.

• Tiling window manager
  Improves multitasking by organizing windows automatically without manual resizing.

• Built-in recovery partition
  Simplifies system recovery without external media.

• User-friendly installer
  Easy setup process with minimal configuration needed.

• Flatpak integration
  Supports multiple software installation formats for wide compatibility.

#Pros

• Excellent for AI/ML workloads due to strong GPU management.
• Well-designed user interface for workflow efficiency.
• Backed by System76’s hardware expertise with regular updates.
• Ready-to-use environment with minimal post-install tweaking.
• Strong support for development tools and libraries inherited from Ubuntu.

#Cons

• Smaller community compared to mainstream Ubuntu or Fedora users.
• Some proprietary System76 packages may limit customization.
• Less suitable for users wanting a minimal or highly customizable system.
• Occasionally, slower updates on some software compared to rolling-release distros.

#5. Arch Linux

Arch Linux is a lightweight and simple distro that’s made for people who really want full control over their system. It follows this “keep it simple” idea, which basically means you get a minimal, basic setup that you can build the way you want. Many experienced developers like Arch because it’s transparent, easy to customize, and always has the latest updates.

#Key Features

• Rolling release model Delivers the latest software updates all the time, so you don’t have to reinstall or upgrade between versions.

• Arch User Repository A vast community-driven repository offering thousands of user-submitted packages and scripts.

• Pacman package manager
  A powerful tool for managing software installations, upgrades, and removals.

• DIY installation
  Installation and configuration are manual. This gives users total control over their system components.

• Comprehensive Wiki and community
  One of the most detailed Linux documentation sources is maintained by users worldwide.

#Pros

• You get access to the newest software and tools as soon as they drop.
• You can customize the system exactly how you like.
• There’s a huge, active community ready to help out.
• It’s lightweight from the start, with no extra packages slowing you down.

#Cons

• Installing and setting up requires good Linux knowledge and some patience.
• There have been complaints that updates sometimes come with bugs, causing system issues.
• If you want something that works right away, this probably isn’t the best choice for you.
• Keeping it up to date can take some extra time.

#6. NixOS 25.05

NixOS is a Linux distro that works in a special way. Your entire system configuration, packages, services, and settings are defined in a single declarative file. This makes it easy to reproduce setups, roll back changes, and maintain consistent environments across machines. The latest version, NixOS 25.05, keeps improving on this idea. It’s a great pick for developers working in DevOps, CI/CD, or those handling complex tasks.

#Key Features

• Declarative system configuration
  Entire system states are defined through a configuration file, which makes it easy to replicate across machines.

• Atomic upgrades and rollbacks
  System changes apply atomically and can be reverted instantly in case of issues.

• Nix package manager
  Offers isolated, reproducible builds with multiple versions of packages coexisting without conflicts.

• Strong support for containers and virtualization
  Simplifies deployment in cloud-native environments.

• Reliable documentation and an active community
  Assists users in mastering the declarative model and advanced features.

#Pros

• Helps keep dev, test, and prod environments consistent.
• Cuts down config inconsistencies with the declarative configuration model, so systems stay reliable.
• Handles complex dependencies and versioning with ease.
• Great fit for infra-as-code and automation setups.
• Makes it easy to roll back broken updates or errors.

#Cons

• Steep learning curve for users unfamiliar with declarative Linux systems.
• Smaller user base compared to mainstream distros.
• Some traditional Linux tooling may require modifications or alternative workflows.
• Not recommended for users looking for a conventional or GUI-focused Linux experience.

#7. Debian 12 (Bookworm)

Debian 12, also called Bookworm, is now the latest stable version of this well-known Linux system. People trust it a lot because it works smoothly and doesn’t crash easily. It’s often used for servers and other important tasks. But since it focuses on safety and stability, some desktop apps might feel a bit old.

#Key Features

• Stable release cycle
  Focuses on well-tested software and minimizes unexpected bugs and crashes.

• Extensive hardware support
  Compatible with a wide range of architectures and devices.

• APT package management
  Simplifies software installation and updates through reliable repositories.

• Strong security practices
  Timely patches and security updates help protect systems from vulnerabilities.

• Complete software repositories
  Thousands of pre-built packages for server and desktop use.

#Pros

• Highly dependable, suitable for long-term deployments and production environments.
• Large, mature community and extensive documentation resources.
• Great choice for servers due to its stability and security focus.
• Supports numerous architectures, such as ARM and older hardware.
• Minimal unexpected behavior with conservative package updates.

#Cons

• Packages can lag behind newer releases and limit access to the latest development tools.
• Less suitable for users wanting advanced desktop environments or applications.
• Setup and configuration might feel outdated compared to modern desktop-focused distros.
• Smaller commercial backing compared to Ubuntu or Fedora.

#8. Linux Mint 21.3 (Virginia)

Linux Mint 21.3 Linux Mint 21.3 delivers a familiar desktop experience that feels easy to get used to. It’s built on Ubuntu’s stable core, and has built-in media support and a simple backup tool. The Cinnamon interface is responsive, which makes it a comfortable choice for daily work or casual development. For anyone switching from Windows, Mint makes a strong case.

#Key Features

• Cinnamon desktop environment
  Provides a highly customizable interface.

• Ubuntu-based stability Inherits software repositories from Ubuntu.

• Update Manager
  Offers user-friendly control over system updates and security patches.

• Pre-installed multimedia codecs
  Supports playback of various media formats like MP4, MP3, and AAC.

• Timeshift integration
  Simplifies system backups and restoration.

#Pros

• Very beginner-friendly.
• Stable and reliable for everyday development.
• Strong multimedia support reduces setup time for media projects.
• Large community with active forums and support channels.
• Minimal system resource usage for a responsive desktop experience.

#Cons

• Updates are slow, so you don’t get the newest software right away.
• Not ideal for gaming. Some games might not run well.
• Fewer advanced features for power users.
• The developer community is smaller compared to Ubuntu or Fedora.

#9. openSUSE Tumbleweed

openSUSE Tumbleweed is a rolling-release distribution designed for users who want the latest software without sacrificing system stability. Unlike fixed-release distros, it continuously updates packages and provides improvements. Tumbleweed offers a professional-grade environment favored by developers and system administrators.

#Key Features

• Rolling release updates
  Provides up-to-date software with regular, tested snapshots.

• YaST configuration tool
  Complete graphical interface for managing system settings and administration.

• Zypper package manager
  An efficient command-line tool for software management and dependency resolution.

• Btrfs filesystem with snapshots
  Supports advanced filesystem features and easy rollback.

• Strong container support
  Integration with Docker, Podman, and Kubernetes for containerized development.

#Pros

• Always runs the latest versions of development tools and libraries.
• Powerful system administration through YaST simplifies complex tasks.
• Reliable package management with Zypper.
• Well-suited for developers looking for the latest software on a stable base.
• Active community focused on quality and innovation.

#Cons

• Smaller user base than mainstream distros like Ubuntu or Fedora.
• Rolling updates can sometimes cause unexpected breakages.
• May require more hands-on maintenance compared to fixed-release distributions.
• Less beginner-friendly, with a steeper learning curve for newcomers.

#10. MX Linux

MX Linux is a lightweight, Debian-based distribution known for its efficiency and stability. Therefore, it is a solid option for older hardware or systems with limited resources. While it does not come pre-configured for development workflows, its minimalistic design allows experienced users to customize their environment by installing and configuring tools as needed.

#Key Features

• Low resource consumption
  Runs smoothly on older or low-spec machines with minimal hardware requirements.

• Custom MX Tools
  A suite of utilities simplifying system maintenance, backups, and configurations.

• Debian Stable base Inherits the reliability of Debian’s stable branch.

• Live USB with persistence
  Supports creating live systems that save data across reboots.

• XFCE desktop environment
  It is lightweight and customizable, and therefore balances simplicity and functionality.

#Pros

• Highly efficient and prolongs the usability of legacy hardware.
• Stable and consistent with conservative updates.
• Tools are designed to simplify common tasks like installing apps, backing up your system, and fixing problems, quickly and easily.
• Strong community support with active forums and documentation.
• Flexible enough for users who are comfortable setting up their development environment.

#Cons

• Not ready for development. It requires manual setup of development tools.
• Smaller user base compared to mainstream distributions.
• Lacks some modern features and software versions preferred by developers.
• It may be challenging for beginners due to minimal pre-installed software.

#Conclusion

Picking the right Linux distro is only half the job. Where you run it matters just as much. A good hosting provider ensures performance, uptime, and support. Cherry Servers is one option worth considering. They offer dedicated servers, cloud instances, and custom deployments. You can choose from major Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian. It’s a solid choice for developers who want control without hassle. Reliable infrastructure, simple setup, and flexible plans, all in one place.