MX Linux is currently listed as the most downloaded Linux distribution on Distrowatch[1]. This might come as a surprise to a lot of people, especially given it ranks above Linux Mint[2], Pop!_OS[3], and Ubuntu[4]. For those who've never heard of MX Linux, it's based on Debian's stable branch as a cooperative venture between antiX and what's left of the MEPIS Linux communities. With Xfce as its default desktop (you can also download spins with either the KDE Plasma or Fluxbox desktops), it's a user-friendly, fast operating system that is a great option for those new to Linux and even those with years of skill under their belt.
One aspect of MX Linux that appeals to me is that the flagship version (Xfce) looks and feels like old-school Linux but with just enough modernity to make it a viable option for today's users.
Its focus is ease-of-use and high performance. If you want an even more modern interface, you can choose the KDE Plasma version. You can go with the Fluxbox edition if you need to eke even more performance out of your system.
Included software
Out of the box, MX Linux includes plenty of tools you need to be productive, including: immediately
- Firefox: Web browser
- LibreOffice: Office suite
- Conky: Desktop system monitor
- Thunderbird: Email client
- PDF Arranger: PDF tool
- VLC media player: Media player
- Clementine music player: Music player
- LuckyBackup: Backup and Sync tool
- antiX: Ad Blocker
- Asunder: CD ripper
- Blueman: Bluetooth manager
- Catfish: File search tool
- Clipboard manager
- Foliate: ebook reader
- Thunar: File manager
- Gufw: GUI firewall manager
There's also a collection of MX Tools,