The Linux Tier List

Summary

The video script discusses a tier list for Linux distributions, categorizing them into various tiers based on their utility, user-friendliness, and suitability for different users. Debian and Arch are placed in the supreme S-tier, while many distributions end up in the 'pointless' tier due to being mere forks without significant unique value. The script provides rationale for each tier, advising users to choose distributions based on functionality rather than appearance, and emphasizes learning the fundamentals of Linux rather than relying on pre-installed toolsets.

Takeaways

• 🏆 The S tier for Linux distributions is reserved for Debian and Arch, considered superior for desktop use.
• 😡 The 'pointless tier' is controversial, with many distributions considered unnecessary or redundant.
• 👶 The 'amazing for new users' tier includes distributions that are beginner-friendly, like Linux Mint and Kubuntu.
• 💼 'Best for business' tier distributions are those that are stable and suitable for enterprise use, such as Alma Linux.
• 🎨 'Creative and unique' tier distributions offer something different, like Arco Linux or Artix Linux, which stand out for their unique features.
• 🔥 'Devil tier' includes distributions associated with big companies that have caused drama or are not recommended, like Red Hat and Fedora.
• 🏃 'Lightweight tier' distributions are designed for low-power devices or old hardware, like Alpine Linux and Antix.
• 😒 'Pointless tier' distributions are seen as mere copies or forks without significant value addition, like Manjaro and Arco Linux.
• 👎 The script criticizes Ubuntu's shift towards Snap packages and recommends against it for desktop use.
• 🛠️ The importance of understanding and customizing one's Linux environment is emphasized over just choosing a distribution for its look and feel.

Q & A

What is the S tier Linux distribution according to the video?

The S tier Linux distribution is Debian and Arch, which are considered supreme for Linux desktop.

Why does the presenter consider many distributions to be in the 'pointless' tier?

The presenter considers many distributions to be in the 'pointless' tier because they are often just forks or copies with minor changes, and do not offer significant unique value or improvements over base distributions like Debian or Arch.

What is the reason behind Fedora ending up in the 'devil' tier?

Fedora ends up in the 'devil' tier due to recent decisions such as proposing an opt-out telemetry feature, which the presenter sees as a negative change.

Why does the presenter recommend Alpine Linux for containers?

Alpine Linux is recommended for containers because it is lightweight, uses the OpenRC init system, and has a package manager called APK, making it ideal for running on low-power devices or in containerized environments.

What does the presenter think about Ubuntu's transition to snap packages?

The presenter is critical of Ubuntu's transition to snap packages, suggesting it has become less user-friendly and more problematic, especially for new users, which is why Ubuntu ends up in the 'devil' tier.

What is the main issue the presenter has with distributions like Manjaro and Arco Linux being based on Arch?

The main issue the presenter has is that these distributions require a good understanding of Arch to avoid breaking the system, especially for new users who might install unstable packages from the AUR. The presenter suggests that users should just use Arch directly.

Why does the presenter consider Kali Linux to be in the 'pointless' tier?

The presenter considers Kali Linux to be in the 'pointless' tier because it is largely a collection of pre-installed security tools that could be manually installed on a more stable base distribution like Debian. They argue that the fundamentals of security research should be learned on a more robust system.

What does the presenter suggest as an alternative to distributions like KDE Neon and Deepin?

The presenter suggests using a solid base distribution like Debian and then installing the desired desktop environment on top of it, rather than using a distribution that packages the environment with potentially less stable or less secure modifications.

Why does the presenter recommend against using distributions that are forks of other distributions?

The presenter recommends against using forks because they often introduce additional layers of complexity and can become outdated or messy when trying to reconcile changes with their base distributions.

What is the presenter's opinion on Linux distributions designed for specific purposes like gaming?

The presenter sees value in distributions like NixOS for gaming, as they come pre-configured with the best defaults and tools for that purpose, requiring less expertise from the user to get started.

What advice does the presenter give about choosing a Linux distribution based on its look and feel?

The presenter advises against choosing a distribution solely based on its look and feel, as these can be customized on almost any distribution. They recommend focusing on the underlying stability and utility of the distribution itself.