Pi OS is not the only operating system for Raspberry Pi. Although it is the authorized distribution, it is not the only one. It may be wise to look into different options for Raspberry Pi OS depending on the model you employ, your objectives, and your tastes.
If you’re searching for the perfect system, I’ll expose you to the ten distributions that stand out and should be tested. It should be noted that most of these distributions can be enhanced in terms of boot and everyday usage speed by installing them on an external SSD disk. It functions flawlessly on the Raspberry Pi 4.
Check These Raspberry Pi OS For Different Uses
1. Raspberry Pi OS
The official Raspberry Pi distribution is called Raspberry Pi OS. It is based on Debian and shares the same stability and performance tenets. For Raspberry Pi, there are numerous Debian packages available.
Numerous upgrades have been made since its initial release in 2012. Currently, Raspberry Pi OS includes the PIXEL desktop, enabling the Raspberry Pi to be used as a regular desktop computer. Essential programs including Scratch, Minecraft Pi, Chromium, and LibreOffice are preloaded.
The compatibility, dependability, and adaptability of Raspberry Pi OS to the majority of novice projects are well recognized. Any type of Raspberry Pi can run the Raspberry Pi Operating System with ease.
You may get Raspberry Pi OS from the official website.
2. Batocera
Right now, my preferred Raspberry Pi vintage gaming app is called Batocera. Batocera is a relatively new program, so you may not be familiar with it. It draws inspiration from Recalbox and adds a new layer with features like enhanced performance and an integrated content downloader.
3. LibreELEC
LibreELEC, a system created from the ground up to run Kodi and only Kodi, is forked into LibreELEC.
To ensure that Kodi runs optimally, OpenELEC and LibreELEC aim to offer the smallest distribution available.
That means it’s not based on the Raspberry Pi Operating System or any other OS; rather, it’s something else entirely.
In 2016, as the OpenELEC project began to wane, LibreELEC was formed. Open Source and free software is LibreELEC. This implies there is no licensing cost associated with the cloning, usage, and adaptation of our software.
4. Ubuntu
Ubuntu swiftly rose to the top of the global Linux distribution user base. This distribution, based on Debian, has a shorter development cycle than Debian and releases the most recent news much sooner. Ubuntu for Raspberry Pi is undoubtedly a solid option if you’re familiar with Ubuntu and are searching for a Raspberry Pi Operating System substitute!
The same fundamental packages as on the Raspberry Pi Operating System are hidden behind a more contemporary interface: LibreOffice, Minecraft PI, and Scratch.
Additionally, a few other adjustments have been made, such as making Firefox the default browser.
The apt command lets you add more packages to be installed.
It provides a more modern and aesthetically pleasing workspace than the Raspberry Pi Operating System.
The drawback is that there is a smaller Raspberry Pi community and less stability.
For now, the dispersion is still ideal.
5. Retropie
With the popular Retropie distribution, you can use your Raspberry Pi as a vintage gaming system. It is based on the Raspberry Pi OS and allows you to play both classic and more recent games, including N64 games. To begin and enjoy your favorite games, Retropie offers a simple setup and an intuitive UI. You must download and upload ROMs to your Raspberry Pi from the Internet before you can play. They’ll appear in the Retropie interface automatically. You may also add a controller for an even greater experience and play a game.
Retropie is still an excellent option because it makes the Raspberry Pi more widely known by allowing numerous players to find it.
6. Kano OS
The distribution of Kano OS is geared toward children. Kano is a manufacturer that provides computer kits to teach children or schools how to operate a computer. On a Raspberry Pi, they also offer a free, open-source operating system that may be installed. A humorous wizard will assist you in creating a user account upon installation, which will enable you to play as a real character in the journey.
After that, you can launch Story Mode to explore everything that comes with Kano OS. From the menu, you may also explore other apps. There are apps specifically designed to help you and your children start little tasks, as well as the most popular ones (like YouTube, Minecraft, and web browsers).
7. Gentoo
With Gentoo, you can install any package you require and customize the distribution to suit your needs. If your projects require flexibility and Arch Linux is no longer supported for Raspberry Pi development, Gentoo may take its place as the new standard. When it comes to Linux, Gentoo is not for beginners. In 2000, the initial version was made available. A significant distinction between Gentoo and other versions is the local compilation of packages on the computer. The system will install the source code, extract it, and construct the program based on your choices and the configuration of your computer if you decide to install new software. As a result, it is highly optimized for you, in contrast to Debian systems where everyone receives the same general binary package.
8. RecalBox
With RecalBox, you can use your Raspberry Pi to play classic games. Retropie and RecalBox are older systems, however, RecalBox has different functionality. Its UI is based on EmulationStation and is built on a customized operating system called Recalbox OS. In general, if you are familiar with Retropie, you won’t get lost despite the slightly changed theme and menus. One of the greatest interfaces available right out of the box is found in RecalBox. For new users, it’s convenient since everything can be set up from the Start menu.
9. OSMC
One of the greatest media center apps designed for Raspberry Pi is OSMC (Open Source Media Center). OSMC is an easy-to-install Linux distribution built around Debian that uses Kodi as its front end. The majority of media formats and streaming sources are supported by OSMC. Because OSMC can be used to set up a multimedia center for $50, it has a lot of applications for the Raspberry Pi. Excellent Kodi UI, self-updating system, and active community support are all available. OSMC is available for download on the official website.
10. Fedora
Based on RedHat, Fedora is a well-liked Linux distribution that currently has about 1.5 million subscribers. In 2003, Fedora was established as an open-source substitute for RedHat.
Additionally, Fedora has been accessible on Raspberry Pi as a stable version for a few months.
When it comes to software and usage, if you’re new to Fedora, it will be comparable to other distributions like Debian or Ubuntu because you can use any popular program to run the majority of the desktop environment on Fedora. However, there are a few modifications that you might not like.
FAQ
What is a Raspberry Pi?
Raspberry Pi OS is an operating system that is derived from the Debian GNU/Linux distribution. It is specifically designed for the Raspberry Pi line of small computers with a single board.
What role does the operating system play in Raspberry Pi?
An operating system is necessary for the Raspberry Pi to perform any meaningful tasks.
Why does the Raspberry Pi run Linux as its operating system?
Linux is commonly chosen as the operating system platform for Raspberry Pi due to its various advantages and compatibility. Linux is a fantastic operating system designed specifically for retro gaming enthusiasts. It is tailored to cater to different minicomputers like the Odroids and Raspberry Pis. This feature allows for a wide range of applications on various PC or laptop hardware.