Linux Mint Debian Editionlmde7
Linux Mint’s desktop on a pure Debian base.
What is Linux Mint Debian Edition?
LMDE delivers the Linux Mint Cinnamon experience on Debian Stable rather than Ubuntu. The Mint team uses it to ensure Linux Mint could continue if Ubuntu ever became unavailable. It avoids Snap entirely and is close to the main edition in look and tools, with Debian’s longer release rhythm underneath.
Who is Linux Mint Debian Edition for?
Linux Mint Debian Edition fits best for everyday use and older hardware. Where it ranks in our lists:
- #6 of 6: Linux distros that look like Windows
- #18 of 18: best lightweight Linux distros for old laptops
- #22 of 22: best Linux distros for beginners
- #36 of 37: best Linux distros for 4 GB of RAM
Pros
- Mint tools and Cinnamon on Debian
- No Snap packages
- Familiar Windows-like layout
Cons
- Only a Cinnamon edition
- Some Ubuntu-specific instructions will not apply
Linux Mint Debian Edition system requirements
For a comfortable desktop with a modern web browser, plan for about 4 GB of RAM. Linux Mint Debian Edition 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.
Linux Mint Debian Edition versions and support dates
| Version | Released | Latest | Support ends | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LMDE 7 Gigi | Oct 14, 2025 | lmde7 | Not announced | Supported |
| LMDE 6 Faye | Sep 27, 2023 | lmde6 | Jan 1, 2026 | Ended |
| LMDE 5 Elsie | Mar 20, 2022 | lmde5 | Jul 1, 2024 | Ended |
| LMDE 4 Debbie | Mar 20, 2020 | lmde4 | Aug 1, 2022 | Ended |
Source: endoflife.date. Support scope varies by product; confirm on the project’s site.
Try Linux Mint Debian Edition 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 Linux Mint Debian Edition with…
Best Linux Mint Debian Edition alternatives
MX Linux
Debian Stable with a toolbox of helpful utilities.
Also suited to everyday use and older hardwarePeppermint OS
A light Debian-based desktop with minimal defaults.
Also suited to everyday use and older hardwareQ4OS
A classic desktop on Debian, with a Trinity edition for old PCs.
Also suited to everyday use and older hardwareLinux Mint Debian Edition: common questions
What is Linux Mint Debian Edition based on?
Linux Mint Debian Edition is based on Debian Stable. It uses APT · Flatpak for software and systemd as its init system.
What is the latest version of Linux Mint Debian Edition?
The latest Linux Mint Debian Edition release is lmde7 (“Gigi”), released Oct 14, 2025, according to endoflife.date.
Is Linux Mint Debian Edition good for beginners?
Yes. Linux Mint Debian Edition is one of the more approachable distributions: mint tools and cinnamon on debian.
How much RAM does Linux Mint Debian Edition need?
We suggest about 4 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 Linux Mint Debian Edition use?
Linux Mint Debian Edition offers Cinnamon.
Is Linux Mint Debian Edition a rolling release?
No. Linux Mint Debian Edition uses fixed releases; you upgrade to a new version periodically.
Is Linux Mint Debian Edition free?
Yes, Linux Mint Debian Edition is free to download and use.