Q4OS
A classic desktop on Debian, with a Trinity edition for old PCs.
What is Q4OS?
Q4OS is a Debian Stable-based desktop with two editions: KDE Plasma for current hardware and Trinity, a continuation of the KDE 3 desktop, for older machines. Its desktop profiler and Windows-like theme make the transition familiar, and it can be installed alongside Windows from a setup program.
Who is Q4OS for?
Q4OS fits best for older hardware and everyday use. Where it ranks in our lists:
- #4 of 6: Linux distros that look like Windows
- #11 of 15: best Linux distros for 2 GB of RAM
- #13 of 18: best lightweight Linux distros for old laptops
- #15 of 22: best Linux distros for beginners
- #23 of 37: best Linux distros for 4 GB of RAM
Pros
- Trinity edition runs on very old hardware
- Windows-like appearance
- Debian Stable foundation
Cons
- Trinity looks dated
- Smaller community than larger Debian derivatives
Q4OS system requirements
For a comfortable desktop with a modern web browser, plan for about 1 GB of RAM, and less is workable with a light desktop. Q4OS 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 Q4OS 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 Q4OS with…
Best Q4OS alternatives
MX Linux
Debian Stable with a toolbox of helpful utilities.
Also suited to older hardware and everyday usePeppermint OS
A light Debian-based desktop with minimal defaults.
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 useQ4OS: common questions
What is Q4OS based on?
Q4OS is based on Debian Stable. It uses APT for software and systemd as its init system.
Is Q4OS good for beginners?
Yes. Q4OS is one of the more approachable distributions: trinity edition runs on very old hardware.
How much RAM does Q4OS need?
We suggest about 1 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 Q4OS use?
Q4OS offers KDE Plasma, Trinity.
Is Q4OS a rolling release?
No. Q4OS uses fixed releases; you upgrade to a new version periodically.
Is Q4OS free?
Yes, Q4OS is free to download and use.