The problem with distro hopping

The eternal question for any new linux user is which distribution to run? Which is basically pointless because it's all down to personal preference. The main differences in any given linux distro is wether it's long term support (LTS) or rolling release, and the packages available in the package manager. But even these differences don't particularly matter anymore, with the advent of Flatpaks, snaps and appimages. An alternative way to install software on your linux machine without installing any dependencies and keeping the software isolated from the main install. Which essentially renders alot of software available on all versions of linux.

So if it doesn't matter, what should I run?

Again, it's personal preference. I like running Long Term Support distros which are usually a little behind in the up to dateness of the software that's included in the regular package repository. But I personally prefer the stability, and the fact that I don't have to really worry about upgrading to the next version of Ubuntu or mint, or whatever for 5 years.

Now this isn't to say that there isn't any reason to use a rolling release distro, like Arch linux or any of it's variants. If you value being on the cutting edge of open source software, the regular updates and the giant AUR repository is probably best for you. Assuming you have enough knowledge to make it past a terminal based installer. At the end of the day though, if you are a new linux user, I would reccomend Ubuntu For ease of use, and being the most beginner friendly in my opinion.

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