2022 has been a year of surprises, and Linux distributions have fared no differently. From new releases full of happening features to various desktop options, there is always something to look forward to.

When you have so many options spoiling you for choices, why not splurge and pick the one which is the most effective and close to your heart? If you are rearing to pick a favorite from the list of best Linux distributions of 2022, here are a few options you need to consider today.

1. MX Linux

MX Linux is the first option to refer to when you talk about high-performing, well-articulated Linux distributions. Since it is based on a stable Debian branch, this Linux distribution is simple, easy to use, and highly effective.

With MX Linux, you will find three options to choose from:

• XFCE
• Fluxbox
• KDE

Since XFCE is a lightweight desktop environment, you can expect a resource-friendly desktop filled with various themes, icon sets, wallpapers, and applications. Depending on which desktop environment you choose, you can expect different applications and features, each aimed at distinct user groups.

Download: MX Linux

2. EndeavourOS

This Arch-based Linux distro is one of a kind, just like its counterpart Manjaro Linux. Even though both distros have Arch Linux running below the hood, they both differ from each other. EndeavourOS is a community-driven OS, and comes well-equipped with a few handy desktop environments, namely:

• Plasma
• XFCE
• Mate
• GNOME
• Cinnamon
• LXDE
• LXQt
• Budgie
• i3-wm
• BSPWM
• Worm
• Sway
• Qtile
• Openbox

EndeavourOS offers users an OS skeleton, which they can fill up as they deem fit. Initially, you get access to a few basic applications, which you can use to build a customized OS. You can use the OS's well-planned welcome screen, which hosts some of the most commonly used applications and features, so you are never too far from excellence.

Download: EndeavourOS

3. Linux Mint

Ubuntu-based Linux Mint is a versatile Linux operating system that caters well to both beginner and experienced users. Its various desktop versions, such as Cinnamon, MATE, and XFCE, ensure the end-user gets a pleasant experience whenever they use it.

Like Ubuntu, every new Mint release brings changes, updates, and features, so you don’t wear out the same old version repeatedly. With its out-of-the-box functionality, 30,000 packages, and fantastic software management, you can expect Linux Mint to be the perfect companion for all your needs.

You can use Flatpak for downloading packages, along with Debian/Ubuntu package management tools. After enabling it on your Linux Mint system, you can even use the Snap Store.

Download: Linux Mint

4. Manjaro

Arch Linux continues to be every user’s favorite. It’s not surprising to note why Manjaro is one of the best Arch-based distros, as it picks some of Arch's best features and takes them up a notch with its unique features and functionalities.

With the Calamares installer in tow and the GNOME desktop environment, Manjaro is out to make heads turn with its fascinating array of applications, icons, and themes. The welcome screen packs everything in a compact space, so users can try out multiple options from a single screen.

The package manager Pamac is a nice-to-have variation to the usual Pacman, along with some GNOME native applications, extensions, and Flatpak support. Subsequently, Manjaro offers a few desktop options, apart from the default GNOME desktop version, including:

• KDE Plasma
• XFCE
• Mate
• Minimal
• Sway
• Budgie
• Cinnamon
• i3

Download: Manjaro

5. Pop!_OS

Pop!_OS, developed by System76, is a visual treat with its GNOME 3.36 desktop environment and Linux kernel version 5.8.

With the latest version, you get a flavor of the power of customizations and how you can benefit from them. You can easily install and configure Pop!_OS on a PC or laptop to get the most out of it on any given day.

From the dock and touchpad gestures to the minimalist keyboard design, there is a little bit of everything for the avid Linux enthusiast. Pop!_OS ships with an auto-tiling feature to help you organize your work while rearranging and resizing windows to suit your needs.

Depending on your need and usage, you can choose from various tools and applications; you can download apps using APT and Flatpak package managers. Pop!_OS is here to stay with its power-packed performance and great styling applications.

Download: Pop!_OS

6. Ubuntu

Ubuntu needs little to no introduction as a Linux distribution, for its reputation precedes its true worth. As a distribution, Ubuntu is a stable operating system, which means you have plenty of good, multi-faceted features to work with frequently.

With Ubuntu, you have many package management options to choose from. APT and Snap Store come preinstalled by default. And after successfully installing it on your system, you can use Flatpak as well.

Its smooth functioning, performance-oriented applications, extensive customizability, and in-built stylish themes and icon packs make it a noteworthy OS worth another glance.

Download: Ubuntu

7. Fedora

Fedora is an independent Linux distribution and functions closer to its competitors: Debian, Arch, and Ubuntu. From being a tailor-made distro for advanced users to becoming a distribution for every kind of user, Fedora has become an ideal OS, packing a power-packed performance.

Given its fluid design, easy-to-operate functionality, and performance-driven features, Fedora gives you everything you might want in an operating system. With its range of applications and seamless interventions, you can always be sure you are getting the best from this distribution.

Download: Fedora

8. Debian

Debian is like a parent distribution for many other Linux distributions, and it continues to roll out plenty of releases for the end-users. Debian offers stability and refrains from offering bleeding-edge software, which is often the case with many distributions.

You will notice that many applications are old-school, since Linux is all about providing users with a decent user experience.

Debian’s package manager offers more than 58,000 applications with a few notable updates for LibreOffice and Calligra.

On the desktop front, you get a few eye-catching options ranging from GNOME, KDE Plasma, and MATE to XFCE. Debian offers a hassle-free OS to the end-users, which translates into a dependable Linux experience for you.

Download: Debian

The Biggest Linux Distributions of 2022

2022 has been a year of success, and Linux has proved that each distribution on the list is better than the rest. Given their independent and open-source nature, plenty of Linux distributions work towards making the user experience immersive and enriching.

There are plenty of independent Linux distributions in the market, each of which you can download and use depending on your needs. Since these OSes are independent, you will have to build them from scratch and customize them along the way.