Best Linux for slow or ageing hardware
Older processors and slow disks struggle with heavy desktops. The systems below keep the load small so the computer feels quicker.
What to look for
- A light desktop
- Low memory use
- Regular security updates
Good choices
- MX Linux: suits people who want a stable, lightweight system with many handy built-in tools, even on older hardware. See the USB drive.
- antiX: suits people with very old or low-memory computers, since it runs without systemd. See the USB drive.
- Linux Lite: suits people moving from Windows who want a simple, light system for modest hardware. See the USB drive.
- Lubuntu: suits people who want an official Ubuntu flavour that runs well on older computers. See the USB drive.
- Xubuntu: suits people who want Ubuntu's base with a light, traditional desktop. See the USB drive.
- Void Linux: suits experienced users who like a fast, independent, runit-based system. See the USB drive.
- Alpine Linux: suits people who want a tiny, security-focused system, often for servers and containers. See the USB drive.
- Tiny Core Linux: suits people who want an extremely small system that runs from memory. See the USB drive.
How to decide
Start two or three of these from a live USB drive and use each for twenty minutes. See how to try Linux without installing, then read how to choose a Linux distribution.
Frequently asked questions
Can I try these before installing?
Yes. Write one to a USB drive and start it in live mode. See how to try Linux without installing.
How many should I test for slow or ageing hardware?
Two or three is plenty. Use each for about twenty minutes and check Wi-Fi, sound, battery and the programs you rely on.
Will my files be touched while I test?
No. A live session leaves your internal disk alone unless you choose to install.