CentOS Stream
Rolling release stability
- Continuous updates
- Enterprise-level support
- Strong security features
- Great for server use
- Not ideal for desktops
- Limited desktop software
Best for
Enterprise environments
CentOS Stream vs MX Linux
CentOS Stream and MX Linux cater to different user bases but both offer compelling features. This page helps you understand their unique strengths and which might be the better fit for your specific needs.
MX Linux
Lightweight efficiency
- Lightweight and fast
- Great hardware support
- User-friendly interface
- Strong community support
- Not a rolling release
- Fewer enterprise features
Best for
Everyday desktop use
TL;DR: Pick CentOS Stream for enterprise environments. Pick MX Linux for lightweight desktop use.
Side-by-side comparison
How they stack up across key categories.
Ease of use
Stream
CentOS Stream is more complex, designed for users familiar with Linux and enterprise environments.
Linux
MX Linux offers a user-friendly interface, suitable for newcomers to Linux.
Desktop feel
Stream
CentOS Stream is not primarily designed for desktop use, resulting in a functional but less polished desktop experience.
Linux
MX Linux provides a polished desktop experience with its XFCE environment, offering a balance of simplicity and functionality.
Stability
Stream
CentOS Stream provides stability with continuous updates, aimed at enterprise and server use.
Linux
MX Linux focuses on stability through a traditional release cycle, ensuring reliability for desktop users.
Updates
Stream
CentOS Stream uses a rolling release model, ensuring constant updates and the latest features.
Linux
MX Linux follows a point release model, providing stability with less frequent updates.
Software access
Stream
CentOS Stream has access to enterprise-level software but fewer options for desktop applications.
Linux
MX Linux offers a wide range of software through Debian repositories, suitable for desktop users.
Privacy
Stream
CentOS Stream maintains strong privacy standards suitable for enterprise use.
Linux
MX Linux prioritizes user privacy with minimal data collection and user-friendly privacy settings.
Community & docs
Stream
CentOS Stream benefits from a strong community and detailed documentation aimed at enterprise users.
Linux
MX Linux has an active community with extensive documentation, especially helpful for beginners.
Gaming
Stream
CentOS Stream is not optimized for gaming, focusing more on enterprise applications.
Linux
MX Linux can handle gaming on Linux well, though it's not specifically optimized for it.
Pros & cons summary
CentOS Stream
Pros
- CentOS Stream offers a rolling release model providing continuous updates, making it ideal for staying current.
- It benefits from enterprise-level support, making it a solid choice for businesses.
- Security features are robust, appealing to those who prioritize security.
- Highly suitable for server environments due to its stability and support.
Cons
- CentOS Stream is not primarily designed for desktop users, which can limit user-friendliness.
- Desktop software availability is more limited compared to other distributions.
MX Linux
Pros
- MX Linux is known for being lightweight and fast, making it ideal for older hardware.
- The distribution offers excellent hardware support, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.
- Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible to newcomers.
- Strong community support provides a wealth of resources and assistance.
Cons
- Unlike rolling releases, MX Linux follows a more traditional release cycle, which may limit access to the latest software.
- It lacks some enterprise-oriented features found in other distributions like CentOS Stream.
Which should you pick?
Quick recommendations for common scenarios.
Switching from Windows
Pick: MX Linux
MX Linux offers a more familiar and user-friendly experience for newcomers.
Following Linux tutorials
Pick: Either
Both distros offer comprehensive documentation and community support.
Using older hardware
Pick: MX Linux
Its lightweight design makes it ideal for older systems.
Gaming on Linux
Pick: MX Linux
While not specialized for gaming, it offers better desktop software access.
Work/professional use
Pick: CentOS Stream
Its enterprise features and support make it ideal for professional environments.
Simple daily desktop
Pick: MX Linux
MX Linux provides a straightforward and efficient desktop experience.
FAQ
Quick answers to common questions.
What is the relationship between CentOS Stream and MX Linux?
CentOS Stream and MX Linux are both Linux distributions but cater to different audiences; CentOS Stream is enterprise-focused, while MX Linux is desktop-oriented.
Which is more beginner-friendly, CentOS Stream or MX Linux?
MX Linux is more beginner-friendly due to its user-friendly interface and supportive community, whereas CentOS Stream is better suited for experienced users.
How do their performance and speed compare?
MX Linux is generally faster and more lightweight, particularly on older hardware, while CentOS Stream is optimized for stability in enterprise settings.
Can I try them before installing?
Yes, both distributions offer live versions that can be run from a USB drive, allowing you to test them before installation.
How does software compatibility differ?
CentOS Stream focuses on enterprise applications, while MX Linux offers broader desktop software compatibility via Debian repositories.
What about hardware support?
MX Linux has excellent hardware support, especially for older devices, whereas CentOS Stream is tailored for server-grade hardware.
Describe the release cycles for each distro.
CentOS Stream uses a rolling release model with continual updates, whereas MX Linux follows a traditional point release cycle.
Is it easy to switch between the two?
Switching between the two involves backing up your data and performing a clean install, as they use different base systems and package managers.
Compare another pair?
Generate a clean "vs" page for any two distros.