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15 Best Raspberry Pi Operating Systems to Try in 2025 🚀
If you’ve ever held a Raspberry Pi in your hands, you know it’s like a tiny Swiss Army knife for tech enthusiasts — endlessly versatile but only as powerful as the software you load onto it. Choosing the right operating system can feel like navigating a maze, with dozens of options tailored for everything from retro gaming to enterprise-grade servers. Did you know that Raspberry Pi OS alone accounts for nearly 70% of all Pi OS downloads? Yet, with specialized distros like Ubuntu, Manjaro ARM, and Kali Linux gaining traction, the landscape is evolving fast.
In this article, we’ll unravel the mystery behind the top 15 Raspberry Pi operating systems, breaking down their strengths, quirks, and ideal use cases. Whether you’re a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned hacker looking for the perfect toolkit, we’ve got you covered. Stick around to discover which OS will make your Raspberry Pi sing — and which ones you might want to avoid.
Key Takeaways
- Raspberry Pi OS remains the best all-around choice for beginners and educational projects, thanks to its official support and user-friendly interface.
- Ubuntu and Manjaro ARM offer modern, powerful alternatives for users craving a full desktop experience or rolling-release updates.
- Specialized OSes like LibreELEC, RetroPie, and Kali Linux transform your Pi into a media center, gaming console, or security powerhouse.
- Lightweight options such as DietPi and Gentoo maximize performance on limited hardware or headless setups.
- Enterprise-grade distros like Fedora and Rocky Linux bring professional features to the Pi ecosystem.
Ready to pick your perfect OS? Check out these essentials to get started:
- Raspberry Pi 4 Model B: Amazon | Walmart | Official Site
- MicroSD Cards (32GB+): Amazon | Walmart
Dive in and let your Raspberry Pi journey begin!
Table of Contents
- ⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Raspberry Pi Operating Systems
- 🔍 The Evolution and History of Raspberry Pi OS Ecosystem
- 🎯 What to Consider When Choosing a Raspberry Pi Operating System
- 1️⃣ Top Raspberry Pi OS Choices for Beginners and Experts
- 2️⃣ In-Depth Review: Raspberry Pi OS (formerly Raspbian)
- 3️⃣ Ubuntu on Raspberry Pi: Power and Versatility
- 4️⃣ Manjaro ARM: Arch-Based Performance on Raspberry Pi
- 5️⃣ DietPi: Lightweight and Ultra-Fast Raspberry Pi OS
- 6️⃣ LibreELEC and OSMC: The Ultimate Media Center OS for Raspberry Pi
- 7️⃣ RetroPie and RecalBox: Gaming Heaven on Raspberry Pi
- 8️⃣ Kali Linux: Raspberry Pi for Ethical Hacking and Security
- 9️⃣ Fedora and Rocky Linux: Enterprise-Grade OS Options for Raspberry Pi
- 🔧 OpenMediaVault: Building a Raspberry Pi NAS with Ease
- 🔍 Exploring Gentoo on Raspberry Pi: Customization and Performance
- 🚀 Pop!_OS on Raspberry Pi: A New Contender?
- 🧠 Raspberry Pi OS Glossary: Speak Like a Pro
- 🌐 Join the Raspberry Pi Community: Forums, Groups, and More
- 📚 Essential Resources and Tools for Raspberry Pi OS Users
- 📱 Social Channels and Influencers to Follow for Raspberry Pi OS Updates
- 🏢 About Why Pi™: Our Mission and Expertise in Raspberry Pi
- 🔚 Conclusion: Choosing the Best Raspberry Pi Operating System for You
- 🔗 Recommended Links for Raspberry Pi OS Downloads and Tutorials
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Raspberry Pi Operating Systems
- 📑 Reference Links and Further Reading on Raspberry Pi OS
Quick Tips and Facts About Raspberry Pi Operating Systems
To get started with your Raspberry Pi journey, check out our article about Raspberry Pi for an in-depth look at this amazing single-board computer. The Raspberry Pi is an incredibly versatile device, and choosing the right operating system (OS) can make all the difference in your project’s success. Here are some quick tips and facts to consider:
- Raspberry Pi OS is the official OS and a great starting point for beginners.
- Ubuntu offers a modern desktop environment and is suitable for users familiar with Ubuntu.
- LibreELEC turns your Raspberry Pi into a media center, ideal for media enthusiasts.
- DietPi is a lightweight OS, perfect for custom projects and optimizing performance.
- Manjaro ARM provides a rolling release model, ideal for advanced users who enjoy customizing their OS.
Key Considerations
When selecting an OS, consider the following factors:
- Project requirements: Choose an OS that aligns with your project’s needs, such as educational projects, media centers, or general computing.
- User experience: Consider the level of complexity and user-friendliness you need, from beginner-friendly to advanced customization.
- Performance: Think about the resources required for your project, from lightweight to resource-intensive.
The Evolution and History of Raspberry Pi OS Ecosystem
The Raspberry Pi OS ecosystem has undergone significant changes since its inception. Initially, the official OS was based on Debian and was known as Raspbian. Over time, the Raspberry Pi Foundation developed and released their own OS images, which eventually became known as Raspberry Pi OS. This evolution has led to a wide range of OS options available for the Raspberry Pi, catering to different needs and preferences.
Major Milestones
Some notable milestones in the evolution of Raspberry Pi OS include:
- The release of Raspbian in 2012, which marked the beginning of the Raspberry Pi OS ecosystem.
- The introduction of PIXEL (Pi Improved Xwindow Environment, Lightweight) as the default desktop environment in 2016.
- The transition from Raspbian to Raspberry Pi OS, which aimed to provide a more streamlined and user-friendly experience.
What to Consider When Choosing a Raspberry Pi Operating System
Choosing the right OS for your Raspberry Pi project can be overwhelming, given the numerous options available. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Compatibility: Ensure the OS is compatible with your Raspberry Pi model.
- Resource requirements: Consider the resources required for your project, such as memory, processing power, and storage.
- User interface: Choose an OS with a user interface that suits your needs, from command-line to graphical desktop environments.
- Software availability: Consider the availability of software and packages for your chosen OS.
Evaluating Your Needs
Take the time to evaluate your project’s specific needs and requirements. Ask yourself:
- What is the primary purpose of my project?
- What resources do I need to allocate for my project?
- What level of complexity am I comfortable with?
1️⃣ Top Raspberry Pi OS Choices for Beginners and Experts
Here are some top Raspberry Pi OS choices, catering to both beginners and experts:
- Raspberry Pi OS: The official OS, ideal for beginners and most small projects.
- Ubuntu: A popular Linux distribution, suitable for users familiar with Ubuntu.
- LibreELEC: A media center OS, perfect for media enthusiasts.
- DietPi: A lightweight OS, ideal for custom projects and optimizing performance.
- Manjaro ARM: A rolling release model, suitable for advanced users who enjoy customizing their OS.
Comparison Table
| OS | Beginner-Friendly | Resource Requirements | User Interface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi OS | Yes | Moderate | PIXEL |
| Ubuntu | No | High | GNOME |
| LibreELEC | Yes | Low | Kodi |
| DietPi | No | Low | Command-line |
| Manjaro ARM | No | High | Various |
2️⃣ In-Depth Review: Raspberry Pi OS (formerly Raspbian)
Raspberry Pi OS is the official OS, designed to provide a user-friendly and lightweight experience. Here’s an in-depth review:
Rating Table
| Aspect | Rating (1-10) |
|---|---|
| Design | 8 |
| Functionality | 9 |
| Performance | 8 |
| User Interface | 9 |
| Compatibility | 10 |
Features and Benefits
Raspberry Pi OS offers a range of features and benefits, including:
- PIXEL desktop environment: A visually familiar and user-friendly interface.
- Pre-installed software: Includes software like Wolfram Mathematica, VLC, and LibreOffice.
- APT package manager: Easy software installation and updates.
- Compatibility: Supports all Raspberry Pi models.
3️⃣ Ubuntu on Raspberry Pi: Power and Versatility
Ubuntu is a popular Linux distribution, available for the Raspberry Pi. Here’s an overview:
Features and Benefits
Ubuntu on Raspberry Pi offers:
- Modern desktop environment: A familiar and user-friendly interface.
- Large community: Access to a vast community and extensive documentation.
- Software availability: A wide range of software packages available.
- Compatibility: Supports Raspberry Pi 4 and later models.
Comparison with Raspberry Pi OS
Ubuntu and Raspberry Pi OS have their differences:
- User interface: Ubuntu offers a more modern desktop environment, while Raspberry Pi OS uses PIXEL.
- Resource requirements: Ubuntu requires more resources than Raspberry Pi OS.
- Software availability: Ubuntu has a wider range of software packages available.
4️⃣ Manjaro ARM: Arch-Based Performance on Raspberry Pi
Manjaro ARM is a rolling release model, based on Arch Linux. Here’s an overview:
Features and Benefits
Manjaro ARM offers:
- Rolling release model: Stay up-to-date with the latest software packages.
- Arch Linux base: Access to the Arch User Repository (AUR).
- Customization: Highly customizable, ideal for advanced users.
- Compatibility: Supports Raspberry Pi 4 and later models.
Comparison with Raspberry Pi OS
Manjaro ARM and Raspberry Pi OS have their differences:
- Update model: Manjaro ARM uses a rolling release model, while Raspberry Pi OS uses a fixed release model.
- Customization: Manjaro ARM is highly customizable, while Raspberry Pi OS is more user-friendly.
- Resource requirements: Manjaro ARM requires more resources than Raspberry Pi OS.
5️⃣ DietPi: Lightweight and Ultra-Fast Raspberry Pi OS
DietPi is a lightweight OS, designed for optimizing performance. Here’s an overview:
Features and Benefits
DietPi offers:
- Lightweight: Ultra-fast and resource-efficient.
- Customization: Highly customizable, ideal for advanced users.
- Compatibility: Supports all Raspberry Pi models.
- Optimized software: Optimized for headless or server setups.
Comparison with Raspberry Pi OS
DietPi and Raspberry Pi OS have their differences:
- Resource requirements: DietPi requires significantly fewer resources than Raspberry Pi OS.
- User interface: DietPi uses a command-line interface, while Raspberry Pi OS uses PIXEL.
- Software availability: DietPi has a limited range of software packages available.
6️⃣ LibreELEC and OSMC: The Ultimate Media Center OS for Raspberry Pi
LibreELEC and OSMC are media center OS options, designed for the Raspberry Pi. Here’s an overview:
Features and Benefits
LibreELEC and OSMC offer:
- Media center functionality: Turns your Raspberry Pi into a media center.
- Kodi integration: Includes Kodi for media playback.
- Compatibility: Supports all Raspberry Pi models.
- Easy setup: Simple and user-friendly setup process.
Comparison with Raspberry Pi OS
LibreELEC and OSMC have their differences:
- Primary function: LibreELEC and OSMC are designed for media center use, while Raspberry Pi OS is a general-purpose OS.
- User interface: LibreELEC and OSMC use a media center interface, while Raspberry Pi OS uses PIXEL.
- Software availability: LibreELEC and OSMC have a limited range of software packages available.
7️⃣ RetroPie and RecalBox: Gaming Heaven on Raspberry Pi
RetroPie and RecalBox are retro gaming OS options, designed for the Raspberry Pi. Here’s an overview:
Features and Benefits
RetroPie and RecalBox offer:
- Retro gaming functionality: Turns your Raspberry Pi into a retro gaming console.
- Emulator support: Includes emulators for various gaming consoles.
- Compatibility: Supports all Raspberry Pi models.
- Easy setup: Simple and user-friendly setup process.
Comparison with Raspberry Pi OS
RetroPie and RecalBox have their differences:
- Primary function: RetroPie and RecalBox are designed for retro gaming, while Raspberry Pi OS is a general-purpose OS.
- User interface: RetroPie and RecalBox use a gaming interface, while Raspberry Pi OS uses PIXEL.
- Software availability: RetroPie and RecalBox have a limited range of software packages available.
8️⃣ Kali Linux: Raspberry Pi for Ethical Hacking and Security
Kali Linux is a penetration testing OS, designed for the Raspberry Pi. Here’s an overview:
Features and Benefits
Kali Linux offers:
- Penetration testing functionality: Includes tools for security testing and ethical hacking.
- Compatibility: Supports all Raspberry Pi models.
- Large community: Access to a vast community and extensive documentation.
- Software availability: A wide range of security tools and software packages available.
Comparison with Raspberry Pi OS
Kali Linux has its differences:
- Primary function: Kali Linux is designed for penetration testing and security, while Raspberry Pi OS is a general-purpose OS.
- User interface: Kali Linux uses a command-line interface, while Raspberry Pi OS uses PIXEL.
- Software availability: Kali Linux has a wide range of security tools and software packages available.
9️⃣ Fedora and Rocky Linux: Enterprise-Grade OS Options for Raspberry Pi
Fedora and Rocky Linux are enterprise-grade OS options, designed for the Raspberry Pi. Here’s an overview:
Features and Benefits
Fedora and Rocky Linux offer:
- Enterprise-grade functionality: Includes features and tools for enterprise use.
- Compatibility: Supports all Raspberry Pi models.
- Large community: Access to a vast community and extensive documentation.
- Software availability: A wide range of software packages available.
Comparison with Raspberry Pi OS
Fedora and Rocky Linux have their differences:
- Primary function: Fedora and Rocky Linux are designed for enterprise use, while Raspberry Pi OS is a general-purpose OS.
- User interface: Fedora and Rocky Linux use a command-line interface, while Raspberry Pi OS uses PIXEL.
- Software availability: Fedora and Rocky Linux have a wide range of software packages available.
🔧 OpenMediaVault: Building a Raspberry Pi NAS with Ease
OpenMediaVault is a NAS solution, designed for the Raspberry Pi. Here’s an overview:
Features and Benefits
OpenMediaVault offers:
- NAS functionality: Turns your Raspberry Pi into a NAS.
- Compatibility: Supports all Raspberry Pi models.
- Easy setup: Simple and user-friendly setup process.
- Software availability: A wide range of software packages available.
Comparison with Raspberry Pi OS
OpenMediaVault has its differences:
- Primary function: OpenMediaVault is designed for NAS use, while Raspberry Pi OS is a general-purpose OS.
- User interface: OpenMediaVault uses a web interface, while Raspberry Pi OS uses PIXEL.
- Software availability: OpenMediaVault has a limited range of software packages available.
🔍 Exploring Gentoo on Raspberry Pi: Customization and Performance
Gentoo is a lightweight OS, designed for the Raspberry Pi. Here’s an overview:
Features and Benefits
Gentoo offers:
- Lightweight functionality: Ultra-fast and resource-efficient.
- Customization: Highly customizable, ideal for advanced users.
- Compatibility: Supports all Raspberry Pi models.
- Optimized software: Optimized for headless or server setups.
Comparison with Raspberry Pi OS
Gentoo has its differences:
- Primary function: Gentoo is designed for customization and performance, while Raspberry Pi OS is a general-purpose OS.
- User interface: Gentoo uses a command-line interface, while Raspberry Pi OS uses PIXEL.
- Software availability: Gentoo has a limited range of software packages available.
🚀 Pop!_OS on Raspberry Pi: A New Contender?
Pop!_OS is a Linux distribution, designed for the Raspberry Pi. Here’s an overview:
Features and Benefits
Pop!_OS offers:
- Modern desktop environment: A familiar and user-friendly interface.
- Compatibility: Supports all Raspberry Pi models.
- Large community: Access to a vast community and extensive documentation.
- Software availability: A wide range of software packages available.
Comparison with Raspberry Pi OS
Pop!_OS has its differences:
- Primary function: Pop!_OS is designed for general use, while Raspberry Pi OS is a general-purpose OS.
- User interface: Pop!_OS uses a modern desktop environment, while Raspberry Pi OS uses PIXEL.
- Software availability: Pop!_OS has a wide range of software packages available.
🧠 Raspberry Pi OS Glossary: Speak Like a Pro
Here’s a glossary of terms related to Raspberry Pi OS:
- APT: Advanced Package Tool, a package manager for Debian-based systems.
- Debian: A Linux distribution, used as the base for Raspberry Pi OS.
- PIXEL: Pi Improved Xwindow Environment, Lightweight, the default desktop environment for Raspberry Pi OS.
- Raspbian: The former name of the official Raspberry Pi OS.
🌐 Join the Raspberry Pi Community: Forums, Groups, and More
Join the Raspberry Pi community to connect with other users, share knowledge, and get help:
- Raspberry Pi Forums: Official forums for discussing Raspberry Pi-related topics.
- Reddit: r/RaspberryPi, a community-driven forum for discussing Raspberry Pi-related topics.
- Social media: Follow Raspberry Pi on social media platforms, such as Twitter and Facebook.
📚 Essential Resources and Tools for Raspberry Pi OS Users
Here are some essential resources and tools for Raspberry Pi OS users:
- Raspberry Pi Documentation: Official documentation for Raspberry Pi OS and hardware.
- Raspberry Pi Forums: Official forums for discussing Raspberry Pi-related topics.
- Raspberry Pi GitHub: Official GitHub repository for Raspberry Pi OS and software.
📱 Social Channels and Influencers to Follow for Raspberry Pi OS Updates
Follow these social channels and influencers for the latest Raspberry Pi OS updates:
- Raspberry Pi Twitter: Official Twitter account for Raspberry Pi.
- Raspberry Pi Facebook: Official Facebook page for Raspberry Pi.
- Raspberry Pi YouTube: Official YouTube channel for Raspberry Pi.
🏢 About Why Pi: Our Mission and Expertise in Raspberry Pi
At Why Pi, our mission is to provide high-quality content and expertise in Raspberry Pi and related topics. Our team of educators and engineers has extensive experience in Raspberry Pi and related fields, ensuring that our content is accurate, informative, and engaging.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Raspberry Pi Operating System for You
After diving deep into the vast ocean of Raspberry Pi operating systems, it’s clear that there’s no one-size-fits-all OS—each shines in its own niche. Here’s a quick recap to close the loop:
Raspberry Pi OS (formerly Raspbian)
✅ Positives: Official support, beginner-friendly, lightweight, broad compatibility, rich educational tools, and a large community.
❌ Negatives: Not the flashiest desktop environment, and some users may find it less cutting-edge compared to rolling-release distros.
Our recommendation: For most users—especially beginners and educators—Raspberry Pi OS is the gold standard. It balances usability, performance, and support like a pro.
Ubuntu
✅ Modern interface, strong community, and excellent software availability.
❌ Higher resource demands; better suited for Raspberry Pi 4 and above.
Great for those who want a familiar Linux experience with a modern desktop.
Manjaro ARM & DietPi
✅ Highly customizable and lightweight, respectively.
❌ Require more Linux savvy and command-line comfort.
Perfect for tinkerers and advanced users who want to squeeze every bit of performance.
Media Center OSes (LibreELEC, OSMC) and Gaming OSes (RetroPie, RecalBox)
✅ Specialized, plug-and-play solutions for media and gaming.
❌ Limited general-purpose use.
Ideal if your Pi’s main gig is streaming or retro gaming.
Enterprise & Security Distros (Fedora, Rocky Linux, Kali Linux)
✅ Robust, feature-rich, and tailored for specific professional uses.
❌ Steeper learning curve and resource-heavy.
For pros and enthusiasts who want to push the Pi beyond hobbyist projects.
So, what’s the final takeaway? If you’re just starting or want a reliable all-rounder, Raspberry Pi OS is your best bet. Want to experiment, game, or build a media center? There’s a specialized OS waiting for you. And if you’re a power user or security enthusiast, the Pi’s ecosystem has you covered too.
Ready to pick your OS and start your project? Dive into the resources below and join the vibrant Raspberry Pi community to keep learning and sharing!
Recommended Links for Raspberry Pi OS Downloads and Tutorials
👉 CHECK PRICE on:
- Raspberry Pi 4 Model B: Amazon | Walmart | Raspberry Pi Official Website
- MicroSD Cards (Recommended 32GB+): Amazon | Walmart
- Raspberry Pi OS (Official Download): Raspberry Pi Foundation
- Ubuntu for Raspberry Pi: Ubuntu Official
- Manjaro ARM: Manjaro Official
- DietPi: DietPi Official
- LibreELEC: LibreELEC Official
- RetroPie: RetroPie Official
- Kali Linux for Raspberry Pi: Kali Linux Official
- OpenMediaVault: OpenMediaVault Official
Recommended Books:
- “Getting Started with Raspberry Pi” by Matt Richardson & Shawn Wallace — Amazon
- “Raspberry Pi User Guide” by Eben Upton & Gareth Halfacree — Amazon
- “Linux Basics for Hackers” by OccupyTheWeb (great for Kali Linux users) — Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions About Raspberry Pi Operating Systems
What are the most popular operating systems for Raspberry Pi?
The most popular OS is Raspberry Pi OS, accounting for over 68% of downloads according to Raspberry Pi Foundation stats. Other favorites include Ubuntu, LibreELEC for media centers, RetroPie for gaming, and DietPi for lightweight server setups. Your choice depends on your project goals and hardware.
How do I install an operating system on my Raspberry Pi?
You can install an OS using the Raspberry Pi Imager tool, which simplifies downloading and flashing OS images onto a microSD card. Just download the Imager from the official site, select your OS, choose your SD card, and write the image. Insert the card into your Pi, power it on, and follow the setup prompts.
What is the best operating system for Raspberry Pi for beginners?
Raspberry Pi OS is the best choice for beginners due to its official support, user-friendly PIXEL desktop, and extensive educational resources. It’s lightweight enough for older Pi models and has a huge community to help you out.
Can I run Windows on my Raspberry Pi?
Officially, Windows 10 IoT Core is available for Raspberry Pi, but it’s limited and not a full desktop experience. Some enthusiasts run Windows 11 ARM builds via emulation or unofficial methods, but performance and compatibility vary widely. For general use, Linux-based OSes remain the best choice.
How does Raspberry Pi OS compare to other operating systems?
Raspberry Pi OS is lightweight, stable, and officially supported, making it ideal for most projects. Other OSes like Ubuntu offer a more modern desktop but require more resources. Specialized OSes like LibreELEC or RetroPie focus on media or gaming, while distros like Kali Linux cater to security professionals.
What are the minimum system requirements for running an operating system on Raspberry Pi?
Most OSes require at least a Raspberry Pi 3 with 1GB RAM, but newer OS versions and desktop environments perform best on Raspberry Pi 4 or newer. A microSD card of at least 16GB is recommended for minimal installs; 32GB+ is better for full desktop environments.
Are there any 64-bit operating systems available for Raspberry Pi?
Yes! Raspberry Pi OS offers a 64-bit version, as do Ubuntu, Manjaro ARM, Fedora, and Kali Linux. Using a 64-bit OS can improve performance and support newer software, especially on Raspberry Pi 3 and 4 models.
How do I choose the right OS for my Raspberry Pi project?
Consider your project’s purpose:
- Learning and general use: Raspberry Pi OS
- Media center: LibreELEC or OSMC
- Retro gaming: RetroPie or RecalBox
- Security testing: Kali Linux
- Lightweight server: DietPi or OpenMediaVault
- Enterprise or development: Ubuntu, Fedora, Rocky Linux
Match the OS features, resource needs, and community support to your comfort level and goals.
Reference Links and Further Reading on Raspberry Pi OS
- Raspberry Pi OS official site: https://www.raspberrypi.org/downloads/
- Ubuntu for Raspberry Pi: https://ubuntu.com/download/raspberry-pi
- Manjaro ARM: https://manjaro.org/download/#raspberry-pi
- LibreELEC: https://libreelec.tv/downloads/
- RetroPie: https://retropie.org.uk/download/
- Kali Linux ARM images: https://www.kali.org/get-kali/#kali-arm
- OpenMediaVault: https://www.openmediavault.org/
- DietPi: https://dietpi.com/
- Fedora ARM: https://fedoraproject.org/wiki/Architectures/ARM
- Rocky Linux: https://rockylinux.org/
- Pop!_OS: https://pop.system76.com/
- Raspberry Pi OS – Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raspberry_Pi_OS
For more on Raspberry Pi history and tutorials, visit Why Pi™ Electronics Industry News and Microcontroller Programming.
Ready to pick your perfect Raspberry Pi OS and unleash your creativity? 🚀 Let’s get that Pi humming!
