PCLinuxOS
A long-running independent rolling desktop.
What is PCLinuxOS?
PCLinuxOS is an independent rolling distribution that grew out of Mandrake and Mandriva. It combines RPM packages with APT and Synaptic for package management, keeps a classic desktop focus, and avoids systemd. Its community is small but long-standing.
Who is PCLinuxOS for?
PCLinuxOS fits best for everyday use. Where it ranks in our lists:
- #10 of 12: Linux distros without systemd
- #13 of 14: best rolling release Linux distros
- #17 of 22: best Linux distros for beginners
- #25 of 37: best Linux distros for 4 GB of RAM
Pros
- Rolling without reinstalling
- Graphical package management
- Systemd-free
Cons
- 64-bit only; small package team
- Fewer up-to-date guides
PCLinuxOS system requirements
For a comfortable desktop with a modern web browser, plan for about 4 GB of RAM. PCLinuxOS 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 PCLinuxOS 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 PCLinuxOS with…
Best PCLinuxOS alternatives
PCLinuxOS: common questions
What is PCLinuxOS based on?
PCLinuxOS is an independent distribution; it is not derived from another Linux distribution. It uses APT-RPM · Synaptic for software and sysVinit as its init system.
Is PCLinuxOS good for beginners?
Yes. PCLinuxOS is one of the more approachable distributions: rolling without reinstalling.
How much RAM does PCLinuxOS 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 PCLinuxOS use?
PCLinuxOS offers KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce.
Is PCLinuxOS a rolling release?
Yes. PCLinuxOS updates continuously, so there are no version upgrades to perform.
Is PCLinuxOS free?
Yes, PCLinuxOS is free to download and use.