Linux Mint vs PCLinuxOS
Linux Mint: A familiar desktop. A comfortable place to start. PCLinuxOS: A long-running independent rolling desktop. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersLinux MintBoth are beginner-friendly; Linux Mint has a Windows-like layout.
- GamingPCLinuxOSPCLinuxOS gets newer drivers and kernels faster.
- Older hardwareLinux MintSimilar memory needs, but Linux Mint offers a lighter desktop option.
- Latest softwarePCLinuxOSPCLinuxOS uses a rolling model; Linux Mint is stable.
- Long-term stabilityLinux MintLinux Mint changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Linux Mint | PCLinuxOS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #2 | #44 |
| Latest version | 22.3 (Jan 11, 2026) | — |
| Based on | Ubuntu LTS | Independent (Mandriva heritage) |
| Release model | Stable | Rolling |
| Desktop | Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce | KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce |
| Package management | APT · Flatpak | APT-RPM · Synaptic |
| Init system | systemd | sysVinit |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Older hardware, Development | Everyday use |
Key differences
- Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu LTS, while PCLinuxOS is based on Independent (Mandriva heritage).
- Linux Mint follows a stable release model; PCLinuxOS is rolling.
- Linux Mint ships Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce; PCLinuxOS ships KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce.
- Software comes from APT · Flatpak on Linux Mint and APT-RPM · Synaptic on PCLinuxOS.
- Linux Mint uses systemd as its init system; PCLinuxOS uses sysVinit.
Choose Linux Mint if…
- familiar desktop layout with useful defaults
- graphical software and update managers
- choose Xfce for a lighter desktop
Packages can be older than on rolling distributions
Full Linux Mint profileChoose PCLinuxOS if…
- rolling without reinstalling
- graphical package management
- systemd-free
64-bit only; small package team
Full PCLinuxOS profileLinux Mint vs PCLinuxOS: FAQ
Is Linux Mint better than PCLinuxOS?
Neither is better for everyone. Linux Mint is the stronger pick for beginners, older hardware, long-term stability; PCLinuxOS for gaming, latest software.
Which uses less RAM, Linux Mint or PCLinuxOS?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is Linux Mint based on PCLinuxOS?
No. Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu LTS; PCLinuxOS is based on Independent (Mandriva heritage).
Can I switch from Linux Mint to PCLinuxOS without losing files?
Back up your home folder first. If /home is on a separate partition you can reinstall without formatting it, but a clean install with restored backups is safest.