Which operating system for Raspberry Pi?

Visit Raspberry Pi can work with a multitude of operating systems, each tailored to specific needs. Whether you want to turn your Pi into a server, a retro game console or a multimedia center, there's an OS made for you. Here's a selection of the best operating systems available for Raspberry Pi in 2024, ranked according to their uses.

1. Raspberry Pi OS (formerly Raspbian)

Raspberry Pi OS is the recommended official operating system. Based on DebianIt's optimized to make the most of Raspberry Pi hardware, with full peripheral support. Its stability and compatibility make it ideal for beginners. It is available in several versions:

• Raspberry Pi OS with desktop Recommended for general use.
• Raspberry Pi OS Lite no graphical interface, perfect for lightweight server projects.

2. Ubuntu for Raspberry Pi

Ubuntu is a robust alternative for Raspberry Pi users. It is available in Ubuntu Desktop for office use and Ubuntu Server for more advanced projects, such as web or cloud servers. Its popularity is based on its familiar interface and 64-bit support for optimum performance on Raspberry Pi 4 and 5.

3. RetroPie - For retro gaming

If you're a retro-gaming enthusiast, RetroPie is a must-have. It lets you turn the Raspberry Pi into a retro games console, with support for emulators for platforms such as the NES, SNES, Sega Genesis and more. Its user-friendly interface and ability to integrate game controllers make it an excellent choice for fans of classic games.

4. LibreELEC - For Multimedia Centers

LibreELEC is the ideal solution for turning your Raspberry Pi into a multimedia center. Based on KodiWith LibreELEC, you can easily stream movies, TV series and music. LibreELEC stands out for its light weight and fluid user interface, making the Raspberry Pi perfect for home streaming projects.

5. DietPi - For Optimized Performance

DietPi is a minimalist OS, designed to be lightweight and offer maximum performance. It's faster than Raspberry Pi OS Lite and offers simplified configuration with an installation wizard for common software. DietPi is particularly suited to projects requiring a small memory footprint, such as a personal server or VPN.

6. Kali Linux - For Ethical Hacking

For those interested in cybersecurity, Kali Linux is the best option. Designed for penetration testing and security audits, it includes a host of specialized tools for network analysis and computer security. Its compatibility with recent Raspberry Pi models makes it a powerful tool for security professionals and enthusiasts alike.

7. Lakka - Retro Gaming Simplified

Lakka is another solution for retro-gaming, using RetroArch for emulation. Lakka offers a minimalist gaming experience with a clean interface and is very easy to configure, even for novice users. It's ideal if you're looking to play your favorite retro games without getting bogged down in complex configurations.

Conclusion

The choice of operating system depends entirely on how you intend to use your Raspberry Pi. If you're a beginner, Raspberry Pi OS is a sure bet. For retro gamers, RetroPie and Lakka are the best options. If you want to maximize performance, opt for DietPiwhile safety enthusiasts will be delighted with Kali Linux. With this flexibility, the Raspberry Pi remains a powerful tool for all kinds of projects.