CentOS Stream and Parrot OS offer distinct experiences tailored to different needs. This page explores their features, stability, and user focus, helping you decide which is right for you.
Continuous stability
Security and privacy
TL;DR: Pick CentOS Stream for enterprise stability. Choose Parrot OS for security and privacy needs.
How they stack up across key categories.
CentOS Stream is familiar to those used to Red Hat environments but may require some learning for newcomers.
Parrot OS can be complex due to its security tools, which might be challenging for beginners.
CentOS Stream offers a traditional GNOME desktop, focusing on a stable and consistent experience.
Parrot OS uses a lightweight MATE desktop environment, which is fast and efficient.
CentOS Stream provides a stable platform by releasing updates that will appear in the next RHEL version.
Parrot OS focuses on security and may include more frequent updates to ensure vulnerabilities are patched.
CentOS Stream operates on a rolling-release model, providing a constant stream of updates.
Parrot OS follows a semi-rolling release, balancing stability and up-to-date software.
CentOS Stream leverages the Red Hat ecosystem, offering access to enterprise-grade software.
Parrot OS includes a wide array of pre-installed security tools and supports Debian repositories.
CentOS Stream focuses more on stability and enterprise needs than privacy.
Parrot OS is designed with privacy in mind, including tools for anonymity and secure communications.
CentOS has a strong community with extensive documentation and support forums.
Parrot OS has a dedicated community focused on security, though documentation may be less extensive.
CentOS Stream is not typically optimized for gaming but can run games with the right configurations.
Parrot OS is not focused on gaming but can support it through its Debian base.
Quick recommendations for common scenarios.
Pick: CentOS Stream
It's more familiar to users with enterprise Windows experience due to its GNOME desktop.
Pick: Parrot OS
Parrot OS is equipped with numerous security tools ideal for following penetration testing tutorials.
Pick: Parrot OS
Its lightweight design is efficient and well-suited for older systems.
Pick: Either
Both can handle gaming with configurations, though neither is optimized for it.
Pick: CentOS Stream
Offers enterprise-grade stability and compatibility with RHEL.
Pick: Either
Both can be configured for simple daily use, though CentOS Stream is more traditional.
Quick answers to common questions.
They are not directly related; CentOS Stream is related to Red Hat, while Parrot OS is based on Debian.
CentOS Stream is more beginner-friendly due to its focus on stability and a more traditional desktop environment.
Parrot OS is more lightweight and may offer better performance on older hardware, while CentOS Stream excels in stability.
Yes, both distros offer live environments that allow users to try them before installing.
CentOS Stream uses the RHEL package ecosystem, whereas Parrot OS uses Debian repositories, both providing extensive software options.
Both distros offer good hardware support, though Parrot OS's lightweight nature may better support older devices.
CentOS Stream follows a rolling-release model, while Parrot OS has a semi-rolling release cycle.
Switching requires installation and configuration adjustments, but both are based on Linux, so the core experience is similar.
Generate a clean "vs" page for any two distros.
