MX Linux25.3
Debian Stable with a toolbox of helpful utilities.
What is MX Linux?
MX Linux is a collaboration between the antiX and former MEPIS communities. It pairs Debian Stable with a collection of MX Tools for tasks such as creating a live USB with persistence, managing boot options, and installing popular packages. It defaults to sysVinit, with systemd available at boot, and remains lighter than many desktop-first distributions.
Who is MX Linux for?
MX Linux fits best for everyday use and older hardware. Where it ranks in our lists:
- Top pick: Linux distros without systemd
- Top pick: Linux distros that still support 32-bit PCs
- #3 of 15: best Linux distros for 2 GB of RAM
- #5 of 18: best lightweight Linux distros for old laptops
- #8 of 22: best Linux distros for beginners
- #11 of 37: best Linux distros for 4 GB of RAM
Pros
- MX Tools cover common admin tasks graphically
- Snapshot tool can turn your install into a live ISO
- Runs well on older and 32-bit machines
Cons
- Debian Stable base means older package versions
- Non-default init can confuse guides written for systemd
MX 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. MX Linux is available for x86_64, i686, including 32-bit PCs. Leave at least 25 GB of storage for the system and applications. These figures are editorial guidance; check the official documentation for minimums.
MX Linux versions and support dates
| Version | Released | Latest | Support ends | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MX Linux 25 Infinity | Nov 9, 2025 | 25.3 | Jun 30, 2030 | Supported |
| MX Linux 23 Libretto | Jul 31, 2023 | 23.6 | Jun 10, 2028 | Supported |
| MX Linux 21 Wildflower | Oct 21, 2021 | 21.3 | Jun 30, 2026 | Ended |
| MX Linux 19 Patito Feo | Oct 22, 2019 | 19.4 | Jun 30, 2024 | Ended |
| MX Linux 18 Continuum | Dec 20, 2018 | 18.3 | Jun 30, 2022 | Ended |
| MX Linux 17 Horizon | Dec 15, 2017 | 17.1 | Jun 30, 2022 | Ended |
| MX Linux 16 Metamorphosis | Dec 14, 2016 | 16.1 | Jun 30, 2020 | Ended |
| MX Linux 15 Fusion | Dec 24, 2015 | 15 | Jun 30, 2020 | Ended |
Source: endoflife.date. Support scope varies by product; confirm on the project’s site.
Try MX 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 MX Linux with…
Best MX Linux alternatives
Peppermint 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 hardwareDebian
A dependable foundation that takes its time.
Also suited to everyday use and older hardwareMX Linux: common questions
What is MX Linux based on?
MX Linux is based on Debian Stable. It uses APT · MX Package Installer · Flatpak for software and sysVinit (systemd optional) as its init system.
What is the latest version of MX Linux?
The latest MX Linux release is 25.3 (“Infinity”), released Sep 20, 2026, according to endoflife.date.
How long is MX Linux 25 supported?
MX Linux 25 is listed as supported until Jun 30, 2030.
Is MX Linux good for beginners?
Yes. MX Linux is one of the more approachable distributions: mx tools cover common admin tasks graphically.
How much RAM does MX 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, i686.
What desktop does MX Linux use?
MX Linux offers Xfce, KDE Plasma, Fluxbox.
Is MX Linux a rolling release?
No. MX Linux uses fixed releases; you upgrade to a new version periodically.
Is MX Linux free?
Yes, MX Linux is free to download and use.