What is Peppermint OS? Who it is for
Peppermint OS is built on Debian. It uses Xfce as its desktop and apt for software, and it follows numbered releases on a fixed schedule.
Peppermint OS at a glance
- Foundation: built on Debian
- Desktop: Xfce
- Software tools: apt
- Release style: numbered releases on a fixed schedule
- Installer: a graphical installer
Who Peppermint OS suits
Peppermint OS suits people who want a light, simple desktop for everyday web and office use.
Strengths
- Low memory and processor use, which helps older or modest computers feel quick.
- A gentle learning curve, with everyday tasks handled through graphical tools.
- The Xfce desktop, which is light, traditional and easy to tweak.
Things to consider
- The lighter design means fewer built-in features and a plainer look than the big desktops.
- As a rough guide, about 2 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Try Peppermint OS from a USB drive
The easiest way to find out is to start it from a USB drive without changing your computer. See the Peppermint OS bootable USB drive, then follow our install guide when you are ready. New to this? Read how to try Linux without installing it and how to boot from a USB drive.
Installing software on Peppermint OS
Peppermint OS uses apt. These commands search for a program and install it (replace name with the program):
apt search name sudo apt install name
Most desktop systems also have a graphical software store. See how to install software on Linux.
Frequently asked questions
Is Peppermint OS good for beginners?
Yes. Peppermint OS is one of the more beginner-friendly choices.
What desktop does Peppermint OS use?
Peppermint OS uses Xfce. To learn how desktops differ, read what GNOME, KDE, Xfce and Cinnamon are.
How much RAM does Peppermint OS need?
As a rough guide, about 2 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Is Peppermint OS based on another distribution?
Peppermint OS is built on Debian.
How often is Peppermint OS updated?
Peppermint OS follows numbered releases on a fixed schedule.
How can I try Peppermint OS without installing it?
Write it to a USB drive, restart, choose the drive from the boot menu and pick the live or try option. Nothing on your internal disk changes unless you choose to install.