Bodhi Linux
A minimal Ubuntu base with the elegant Moksha desktop.
What is Bodhi Linux?
Bodhi Linux ships a minimal selection of applications on an Ubuntu LTS base and uses Moksha, a continuation of the Enlightenment 17 desktop. It is light and customizable, and leaves you to add the software you need.
Who is Bodhi Linux for?
Bodhi Linux fits best for older hardware and everyday use. Where it ranks in our lists:
- #14 of 15: best Linux distros for 2 GB of RAM
- #16 of 18: best lightweight Linux distros for old laptops
- #29 of 37: best Linux distros for 4 GB of RAM
Pros
- Very light Moksha desktop
- Minimal preinstalled software
- Ubuntu compatibility
Cons
- Moksha is unique; fewer guides exist
- You install most applications yourself
Bodhi Linux system requirements
For a comfortable desktop with a modern web browser, plan for about 2 GB of RAM, and less is workable with a light desktop. Bodhi Linux is available for x86_64. Leave at least 25 GB of storage for the system and applications. These figures are editorial guidance; check the official documentation for minimums.
Try Bodhi Linux before you install
Write the image to a USB stick and boot it as a live session to test Wi-Fi, graphics, sound, and suspend on your own computer. A browser trial on DistroSea shows the desktop, but cannot verify your hardware.
Compare Bodhi Linux with…
Best Bodhi Linux alternatives
Bodhi Linux: common questions
What is Bodhi Linux based on?
Bodhi Linux is based on Ubuntu LTS. It uses APT for software and systemd as its init system.
Is Bodhi Linux good for beginners?
It is manageable if you are comfortable troubleshooting and occasionally using a terminal. Complete beginners may prefer Linux Mint or Ubuntu first.
How much RAM does Bodhi Linux need?
We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop experience with a modern browser. This is editorial guidance, not the project’s official minimum, which can be lower. It runs on x86_64.
What desktop does Bodhi Linux use?
Bodhi Linux offers Moksha.
Is Bodhi Linux a rolling release?
No. Bodhi Linux uses fixed releases; you upgrade to a new version periodically.
Is Bodhi Linux free?
Yes, Bodhi Linux is free to download and use.