Nitrux
An immutable, systemd-free desktop built around AppImages.
What is Nitrux?
Nitrux is a Debian-based distribution developed by Nitrux Latinoamericana in Mexico. Its root filesystem is immutable: the Nitrux Update Tool System replaces it as a whole and can roll back, and it uses OpenRC instead of systemd. Since version 5.0 (November 2025) the desktop is the Hyprland tiling compositor, and version 7.0 (October 2026) adds Nitrux’s own QML shell, with the Valenz bar and Marina dock. Software comes mainly as AppImages through NX AppHub, with Flatpak and Distrobox included. It requires a processor with AVX2 (x86-64-v3), so many older PCs cannot run it.
Who is Nitrux for?
Nitrux fits best for immutable systems and development. Where it ranks in our lists:
- #7 of 9: best immutable and atomic Linux distros
- #12 of 12: Linux distros without systemd
- #26 of 29: best Linux distros for programming and development
Pros
- Immutable root with whole-system updates and rollback
- systemd-free, using OpenRC
- A cohesive in-house shell and apps on Hyprland
Cons
- Requires an AVX2 (x86-64-v3) processor
- Keyboard-driven tiling workflow has a learning curve
- AppImage-first and non-systemd, so many guides need adapting
Nitrux system requirements
For a comfortable desktop with a modern web browser, plan for about 8 GB of RAM. Nitrux 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 Nitrux 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 Nitrux with…
Best Nitrux alternatives
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An immutable GNOME desktop with containers for any package.
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Also suited to immutable systems and developmentNixOS
Your whole system, described in configuration.
Also suited to immutable systems and developmentNitrux: common questions
What is Nitrux based on?
Nitrux is based on Debian. It uses NX AppHub (AppImage) · Flatpak · Distrobox for software and OpenRC as its init system.
Is Nitrux good for beginners?
Not usually. Nitrux expects hands-on configuration and maintenance. Beginners are better served by Linux Mint, Ubuntu, or Zorin OS.
How much RAM does Nitrux need?
We suggest about 8 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 Nitrux use?
Nitrux offers Hyprland (Nitrux shell).
Is Nitrux a rolling release?
Nitrux uses atomic, image-based updates: the system updates as a unit and keeps the previous version for rollback.
Is Nitrux free?
Yes, Nitrux is free to download and use.