Your first Linux distro should be Pop!_OS
For developers, I recommend using Pop!_OS as your first Linux distribution. After using MacOS for fifteen years, my first Linux experience was with Pop!_OS, and I’ve explored other Debian and Arch-based distros. I’m currently using Pop!_OS and EndevourOS.
Pop!_OS is an excellent transition distribution for developers moving to Linux for the following reasons:
Made by developers for developers.
Pop!_OS is maintained by System 76, a leading manufacturer of professional hardware designed to run Linux. In the hands of System76, there is a focus on performance, reliability, and usability for the developer. System76 descried Pop!_OS as “an operating system for STEM and creative professionals who use their computer as a tool to discover and create.”
Hardware Support
While Pop!_OS comes pre-installed on System76 computers, it will install on any (Linux friendly) computer. While there are distributions designed to run well on old, underpowered hardware, I have found Pop!_OS to be lightweight enough to perform well on a broad range of hardware. I’m currently running it on a System76 Laptop, custom-built tower, and the good old classic Thinkpad T420. Pop!_OS also supports modern, cutting edge hardware and is often the choice of gamers.
Premium Interface
As a recovering Mac “fan boy”, I appreciate an operating system that looks and feels premium. Before switching to Linux, I had the impression that Linux would look and feel old. While some Linux desktop environments look old, many, like Pop!_OS and Elementary, are beautiful. Out of the box, without customization, Pop!_OS is not a step down from Mac OS.
No Clutter
The Pop!_OS desktop is clutter-free. No dock. No Menu. Just a status bar at the top of the window. This minimal interface can be a jarring when coming from Windows and macOS. I now appreciate the OS getting out my way and valuable screen space is reserved reserved for my work.
While it’s possible to add a macOS like dock (with Dash to Dock), I encourage people to use op!_OS defaults for a few weeks before making changes. As I mentioned earlier, Pop!_OS is made by developers; the default settings are purposeful.
Pop Store
While Pop!_OS comes with very few applications installed, the Pop Store provides one-click installation of hundreds of applications. From Slack and VS Code to photo editors, video editors, office tools, and games. The Pop Shop catalog has grown a lot in two years. It supports APT, and Flatpack installs.
Tiling Window Manager
Pop!_OS introduced a “tiling window” like feature with version 20.04. With tiling window modhttps://stephencross.com/2020/09/24/your-first-linux-distro-should-be-pop_os/e on, windows don’t overlap. When a window opens, it splits the space with the existing windows. Without tiling windows mode on, Pop!_OS works like macOS and Windows, with floating windows. Windows are resized by you and can overlap. Tiling windows allow you to maximize screen space and increase productivity using keyboard shortcuts.
Pop!_OS also supports Workspaces, which are virtual desktops. The combination of Tiling Windows, Workspaces makes for a powerful combination. (I make a minor tweak to the keyboard shortcuts to switch workspaces with Super + Number.)
In Summary
Switching to Linux can be challenging. Choosing a Linux distribution that looks and works great out of the box makes the transition easier. In my experience, Pop!_OS ‘just works’, allowing you to get comfortable in the Linux world.
Originally published at http://stephencross.com on September 24, 2020.
