Hello, I’m looking for a new distro that aligns with my privacy preferences and offers a wide range of packages without requiring me to search for PPAs, similar to Manjaro. I’ve grown uneasy about Manjaro’s decision to collect unique data like MAC addresses and disk serial numbers by default, even if it’s for diagnostic purposes.
In light of this, I’d like to ask for your recommendations on a Linux distro that meets the following criteria:
- No opt-out telemetry: I’m looking for a distro that doesn’t collect any unique data by default.
- Access to a wide range of packages: I prefer a distro that offers a vast repository of packages, so I don’t have to search for PPAs or third-party repositories.
- User-friendly: I’m not a fan of complicated configurations or steep learning curves, so a distro with a user-friendly approach would be ideal.
I’m curious to hear any recommendations you might have. Thanks!
Go to the source. Debian.
Garuda. It’s even easier than Manjaro. The theming can be a bit much, though.
EndeavorOS. It’s like manjaro but not bad.
Fedora/Nobara.
If you’re already used to Arch-based systems, and enjoy the convenience of the AUR, what about EndeavourOS?
It’s basically Arch with GUI install scripts, and a different wallpaper.
I saw one commenter suggested Arch itself. IMO it’s even a better idea than EOS.
archinstalldoesn’t have GUI, but it has very nice TUI (like what you have when you usehtop), and you could finish selecting the options in very few minutes.Maybe I’m a dumbass and it’s my fault, but I find that archinstall always has an issue when you run it. It’s easier to install arch manually than run the and troubleshoot.
I switched to EOS Endeavour OS. I don’t think it has data collection
It doesn’t, and offers an even friendlier experience than Manjaro IMO
Endeavour has been an amazing distro for me, noob Linuxer. I started on Ubuntu Cinnamon, then tried Mint, and ended here on Endeavour and I love it.
Trisquel is a fully ‘Free as in freedom’ distro.
Zero telemetry now or in the future.
Ubuntu based, so large FLOSS package repository.
Mate UI, simple user friendly layout.
* You will need hardware that works with fully free hardware drivers (for printer, WiFi, GPU etc). Drivers with binary-blobs are not included, due to potential security risks or spyware.
Test your hardware with a bootable USB.
Use Arch Linux. There’s a script called “archinstall” you can use after connecting to the internet, and it’s basically a guided installer
EndeavourOS. I used Manjaro for 1.5 years before switching to EndeavourOS. (BTW before that I was also using Ubuntu for 13 years in row…) I couldn’t be happier. It’s closer to Archlinux and a bit more focused on terminal, but overall hassle free for me. Updates come quicker and not in batches like Manjaro did. Which means more often new versions of packages and no compatibility or other issues with AUR caused by Manjaro. What desktop environment did you use before? KDE is pretty good on EndeavourOS and what I would recommend.
- No opt-out or opt-in telemetry.
- Same package manager and repository from Archlinux.
- You have already experience with Manjaro and the Archlinux stuff, so going to a similar system like EndeavourOS makes sense. However its a bit more terminal oriented, with a few GUI related help.
Because of your prior experience with Manjaro, I think EndeavourOS is a good candidate you should have in mind.
I second EndeavourOS. It’s so good!
Is there something like an easy migration script, which would take packages and settings from my current install?
Ok, settings are mostly in my home anyway
Packages I can generate a list, and the manuals throw out the Manjaro stuffHmm…I’m having a laptop and a workstation running Manjaro and I really would like to make the switch, but can’t tolerate much downtime, because both are machines for my work
So I’m looking for something to quickly setup everything as I had, without the need to remember everything and do it manually…
Peppermint OS, its what made me stop distrohopping . Debian based with extra on top, easy doesn’t brake,
I don’t understand the concept. It’s Debian with xfce and a custom theme. Why is that a distribution. Seems like a meta package would be enough.
This coverage provides an example of what is sent, and it includes neither MACs nor HDD serial numbers.
Debian or Linux Mint
Arch would actually stand a chance.
i found endeavor to be nicer than Manjaro but tbh I’m at the stage where i just recommend installing arch. it’s gotten a lot easier. endeavor is also arch based though so I’d go with that if you want super easy install / extra stuff installed ootb
openSUSE Tumbleweed has served me well for some time now. Maybe give it a look-see?
Second this. Tumbleweed is a great distro. Nearly everything you’ll need can be found in default repos. Then there are several endorsed (semi) official add-on repos, and if that fails there’s always OBS (opi is your friend for searching those).
You probably shouldn’t be using an arch based distro if you want a user friendly experience.
I know there are things like manjaro and even endeavor os that are “arch but easy” but honestly I cannot in good faith recommend anything arch based for ease of use. Arch is a very fast moving distribution that usually has the newest packages but that isn’t always good. There will eventually be a problem come up, maybe not often and maybe not that serious but in my personal opinion it’s not worth it.
If you are wanting consistent ease of use and access to a lot of packages it’s hard to beat the mainstream distros. Mint, Ubuntu, Fedora, (personal favorite) etc… and if you need something from arch repositories just use distrobox. You get access to all arch packages without the headache.
