Debian alternatives: 3 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave Debian: stable releases ship older apps and kernels, and less hand-holding during install than Ubuntu or Mint. We ranked 3 alternatives by how directly each one replaces Debian, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. Ubuntu currently ranks first.
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The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best Debian alternative for most people
UbuntuBuilt on Debian with newer software, a guided installer and commercial support available.
Best Debian alternative for a free option
Linux MintFriendlier desktop experience for newcomers, built on the same Debian and Ubuntu foundations.
Best Debian alternative for open source
Fedora LinuxMuch newer software and kernels, at the cost of upgrading about once a year.
Best Debian alternative for Linux
UbuntuBuilt on Debian with newer software, a guided installer and commercial support available.
Debian alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to Debian?
Ubuntu ranks first right now. Built on Debian with newer software, a guided installer and commercial support available. Linux Mint and Fedora Linux follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to Debian?
Yes. Ubuntu (open source), Linux Mint (open source) and Fedora Linux (open source) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to Debian?
Yes: Ubuntu, Linux Mint and Fedora Linux.
Which Debian alternatives work on Linux?
Ubuntu, Linux Mint and Fedora Linux run on Linux.
Why do people switch from Debian?
The complaints we hear most: stable releases ship older apps and kernels; less hand-holding during install than Ubuntu or Mint; major releases come only about every two years.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces Debian, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.