Peppermint OS
A light Debian-based desktop with minimal defaults.
What is Peppermint OS?
Peppermint OS is a lightweight distribution built on Debian, with a Devuan variant for those avoiding systemd. It uses Xfce and a small set of Peppermint tools, and encourages you to install only the applications you need through its welcome and package tools.
Who is Peppermint OS for?
Peppermint OS fits best for older hardware and everyday use. Where it ranks in our lists:
- #12 of 15: best Linux distros for 2 GB of RAM
- #14 of 18: best lightweight Linux distros for old laptops
- #18 of 22: best Linux distros for beginners
- #26 of 37: best Linux distros for 4 GB of RAM
Pros
- Lean install with Debian underneath
- Devuan variant without systemd
- Simple welcome tools
Cons
- Community-maintained with a small team
- Few applications preinstalled
Peppermint OS 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. Peppermint OS 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 Peppermint OS 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 Peppermint OS with…
Best Peppermint OS alternatives
MX Linux
Debian Stable with a toolbox of helpful utilities.
Also suited to older hardware and everyday useQ4OS
A classic desktop on Debian, with a Trinity edition for old PCs.
Also suited to older hardware and everyday useLinux Mint Debian Edition
Linux Mint’s desktop on a pure Debian base.
Also suited to older hardware and everyday usePeppermint OS: common questions
What is Peppermint OS based on?
Peppermint OS is based on Debian Stable. It uses APT · Flatpak for software and systemd as its init system.
Is Peppermint OS good for beginners?
Yes. Peppermint OS is one of the more approachable distributions: lean install with debian underneath.
How much RAM does Peppermint OS 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 Peppermint OS use?
Peppermint OS offers Xfce.
Is Peppermint OS a rolling release?
No. Peppermint OS uses fixed releases; you upgrade to a new version periodically.
Is Peppermint OS free?
Yes, Peppermint OS is free to download and use.