Exploring the Best RISC OS Alternatives for Modern Computing
RISC OS, a fast and easily customized operating system with origins tracing back to the original ARM microprocessor team in 1987, holds a unique place in computing history. While still maintained by RISC OS Developments Ltd. and ported to various platforms like the Raspberry Pi and BeagleBoard, many users today seek more widely supported or feature-rich operating systems. If you're looking for a powerful and versatile RISC OS alternative, you've come to the right place.
Top RISC OS Alternatives
Whether you prioritize open-source flexibility, extensive software compatibility, or a user-friendly experience, there's an operating system out there to meet your needs. Here are some of the top RISC OS alternatives worth considering:
Ubuntu
Ubuntu is a Debian Linux-based open-source operating system renowned for its user-friendliness and extensive community support. As a free and open-source platform available for Windows and Linux, it offers a highly customizable experience with features like OTA Updates, a robust APT package manager, and strong security & privacy. It's an excellent RISC OS alternative for those seeking a modern, stable, and widely supported Linux desktop.
Arch Linux
Arch Linux is an independently developed, i686- and x86_64-optimized GNU/Linux distribution targeted at competent Linux users. This free and open-source Linux alternative to RISC OS offers a rolling release model, a minimalistic design, and powerful features like the Arch User Repository (AUR) and extensive wiki documentation. It's ideal for users who prefer a hands-on approach and want a lightweight, bleeding-edge operating system with ARM support.
Windows 10
Windows 10, a commercial operating system by Microsoft, offers a familiar and widely adopted environment. As a popular RISC OS alternative, it provides an in-built GUI, OneDrive integration, and robust tablet support, making it suitable for a broad range of personal computing needs. While not open-source, its vast software ecosystem and extensive hardware compatibility are significant advantages.
Manjaro Linux
Manjaro is a user-friendly Linux distribution based on the independently developed Arch operating system. This free and open-source RISC OS alternative provides a rolling release model, out-of-the-box functionality, and strong community support. With features like ARM support, customizability, and stability, Manjaro offers a great balance between the power of Arch Linux and ease of use.
Fedora
Fedora, an openly-developed project designed by Red Hat Enterprise Linux, is a free and open-source Linux-based operating system. As a solid RISC OS alternative, it boasts an in-built GUI, multiple language support, and separated workspaces. Fedora is known for its commitment to innovation and provides a cutting-edge, yet stable, environment for developers and everyday users alike.
elementary OS
elementary OS is a free, fast, and aesthetically pleasing operating system based on Ubuntu. This open-source Linux alternative to RISC OS offers a macOS-like interface and focuses on a distraction-free UI. With features like Flatpak support and Debian package compatibility, elementary OS provides a sleek and efficient computing experience.
Linux kernel
The Linux kernel is the foundational component of the Linux family of Unix-like operating systems. While not a complete operating system on its own, it's the core that powers many of the best RISC OS alternatives, including Ubuntu, Arch Linux, and Fedora. Being free and open-source, it provides the flexibility for those who want to build a highly customized system.
Xubuntu
Xubuntu is an elegant and easy-to-use operating system that comes with Xfce, a stable, light, and configurable desktop environment. Based on Ubuntu and Debian, this free and open-source Linux distribution is an excellent lightweight RISC OS alternative for users with older hardware or those who prefer a minimalistic yet functional interface.
FreeBSD
FreeBSD is an advanced operating system for x86 compatible, amd64 compatible, and ARM devices. This free and open-source BSD-based system is a powerful Unix-like RISC OS alternative known for its stability, performance, and extensive documentation. It's particularly popular among developers and system administrators for its robust features and package control.
openSUSE
openSUSE is a free and Linux-based operating system for your PC, Laptop, or Server. This open-source RISC OS alternative is a stable, easy-to-use, and complete multi-purpose distribution, offering both rolling release (Tumbleweed) and fixed release (Leap) options. With KDE support, customizability, and a strong community, openSUSE is a versatile choice for a wide range of users.
Ultimately, the best RISC OS alternative depends on your specific needs, technical expertise, and desired features. We encourage you to explore these options further to find the perfect operating system that aligns with your computing goals.