MX Linux
The flexible performer
- Highly customizable
- Efficient resource usage
- Strong community support
- Comprehensive toolset
- Less modern desktop aesthetics
- Limited gaming optimizations
Best for
Efficient desktops
MX Linux vs Pop!_OS
MX Linux and Pop!_OS are two popular Linux distributions, each with its unique strengths. This comparison explores their features, usability, and ideal use cases to help you decide which is right for you.
Pop!_OS
Optimized for work
- Great for gaming
- Modern GNOME interface
- Optimized for System76 hardware
- Built-in tiling window manager
- Heavier on resources
- Frequent updates required
Best for
Productivity and gaming
TL;DR: Pick MX Linux for efficient customization and resource use. Pick Pop!_OS for a modern interface and gaming.
Side-by-side comparison
How they stack up across key categories.
Ease of use
Linux
MX Linux offers a straightforward user experience with a focus on simplicity and ease of navigation, thanks to its intuitive tools.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS provides a sleek and modern user interface that is easy to navigate, especially for those familiar with GNOME.
Desktop feel
Linux
The XFCE desktop environment in MX Linux is highly customizable but may appear outdated to some users.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS uses a customized GNOME interface that feels modern and polished, appealing to users who prefer a visually appealing desktop.
Stability
Linux
MX Linux is known for its stability due to its Debian base and conservative approach to updates.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS offers a stable experience but follows a rolling update model that requires regular updates to maintain stability.
Updates
Linux
MX Linux uses a stable release cycle with periodic updates, ensuring stability and reliability.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS employs a rolling release model, providing up-to-date software with frequent updates.
Software access
Linux
MX Linux provides access to a wide range of software through the Debian and MX repositories.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS offers access to the latest software versions through its own repositories and the Ubuntu base.
Privacy
Linux
MX Linux takes a traditional approach to privacy, offering standard privacy tools and settings.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS emphasizes user privacy with built-in encryption and secure settings, especially beneficial for System76 hardware users.
Community & docs
Linux
MX Linux has a strong, active community with comprehensive documentation and forums for support.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS benefits from System76's support along with community forums and detailed documentation.
Gaming
Linux
MX Linux can run games but lacks the dedicated gaming optimizations found in other distros.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS is well-suited for gaming, with integrated drivers and tools that enhance the gaming experience.
Pros & cons summary
MX Linux
Pros
- MX Linux offers extensive customization options through its XFCE desktop environment, allowing users to tailor their experience.
- The distro is lightweight, making it ideal for older hardware or systems with limited resources.
- A robust and active community provides substantial support and a wealth of user-contributed documentation.
- MX Tools is a suite of utilities designed to make system management straightforward, including snapshot and package management tools.
- The installation process is straightforward, with an easy-to-use graphical installer.
Cons
- The visual design of the default XFCE environment may feel dated compared to more modern desktop environments.
- While MX Linux can run games, it doesn't offer native gaming optimizations like some other distros.
Pop!_OS
Pros
- Pop!_OS is renowned for its excellent gaming support, with built-in drivers and compatibility tools for a wide range of games.
- The GNOME-based desktop offers a sleek, modern look and feel with intuitive navigation.
- While designed with System76 hardware in mind, it runs well on a variety of systems, providing optimizations and firmware updates.
- The integrated tiling window manager boosts productivity for users who prefer keyboard shortcuts and efficient screen real estate use.
- Pop!_OS provides a clean, minimal installation by default, allowing users to build their environment without unnecessary software.
Cons
- Being GNOME-based, Pop!_OS can be more resource-heavy, which might not be ideal for older computers.
- The rolling update model requires more frequent system updates, which could be a hassle for some users.
Which should you pick?
Quick recommendations for common scenarios.
Switching from Windows
Pick: Pop!_OS
Its modern interface and intuitive design make it easier for Windows users to transition.
Following online tutorials
Pick: Either
Both have strong community support and documentation, making them suitable for learning.
Older hardware
Pick: MX Linux
Its lightweight design is ideal for maximizing performance on older machines.
Gaming
Pick: Pop!_OS
Optimized with drivers and software for a seamless gaming experience.
Work/professional use
Pick: Pop!_OS
Its productivity-focused features and support make it ideal for professional environments.
Simple daily desktop
Pick: MX Linux
Offers a straightforward, efficient desktop experience for everyday tasks.
FAQ
Quick answers to common questions.
What is the relationship between MX Linux and Pop!_OS?
MX Linux is based on Debian, while Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu, which itself is a Debian derivative. They share a Debian lineage but differ in their focus and design philosophies.
Which is more beginner-friendly, MX Linux or Pop!_OS?
Both are relatively beginner-friendly, but Pop!_OS might be slightly easier for newcomers due to its modern interface and System76's out-of-the-box optimizations.
Which distro offers better performance?
MX Linux generally offers better performance on older or less powerful hardware, while Pop!_OS provides robust performance on modern systems, especially for gaming and productivity.
Can I try these distros before installing?
Yes, both MX Linux and Pop!_OS offer live sessions that let you try out the OS without installing it on your system.
How do software compatibility and availability compare?
Both distros have access to extensive repositories, with MX Linux using Debian's and Pop!_OS using Ubuntu's, ensuring a wide range of available applications.
How is hardware support for each distro?
Pop!_OS has excellent hardware support, especially for System76 devices, while MX Linux also offers good hardware compatibility, particularly for older machines.
What are the release cycles of MX Linux and Pop!_OS?
MX Linux follows a stable release cycle with periodic updates, while Pop!_OS uses a rolling release model, providing regular updates for new features and improvements.
Is it easy to switch between these distros?
Switching between MX Linux and Pop!_OS is straightforward, as both use similar package management systems and can be dual-booted or replaced with minimal hassle.
Compare another pair?
Generate a clean "vs" page for any two distros.