Best Smallest & Lightweight OS for Low End PC & Laptop [May 2024]

Best Smallest & Lightweight OS for Low End PC & Laptop: The search for the best lightweight option for low-end PCs is an ongoing task because operating systems are always changing. You’ve come to the right place if you have a slow, old computer and want a faster, more efficient one. We know how frustrating it is when your PC is slow, so we’ve put together a list of the best lightweight operating systems that can bring your old laptop or desktop back to life.

Why Opt for best os for low end pc?

Table of Contents

Finding a solution that works with low-end hardware is very important in a world where operating systems like Windows 11 use a lot of resources. These small operating systems not only make your PC run faster and more quick, but they also keep your old PC useful and up to date. Let’s look at the best options for giving your old tools a new lease on life.

Best Smallest & Lightweight OS for Low End PC & Laptop

1. Lubuntu: Getting Low-End PCs Faster

Highlights of Lubuntu:

RAM: 512MB (128MB min)
Architecture: 32-bit & 64-bit
CPU: Pentium 4 or Pentium M or AMD K8
Window Manager: LXDE, Openbox
Latest Version: Lubuntu 23.04 (Released on May 2024)

Lightweight Distribution: Lubuntu is a light Linux distribution built on Ubuntu. It uses the LXQt desktop environment to make the desktop experience simpler and faster.

Newest Desktop Environment: Lubuntu 23.10, also known as “Mantic Minotaur,” includes the newest desktop environment, LXQt 1.30. This version brings changes and new features to make the user experience better.

Customization Options: Individuals can change how Lubuntu looks, as shown by a guide on improving the look of Lubuntu for a better desktop experience.

Community talks: Users actively participate in talks to fix problems and make Lubuntu their own. For example, they change the highlight colors in some apps like Firefox and fix problems with the highlight rectangle in some settings.

Theme Development Updates: These show changes to themes. For example, in one dev update, the Breeze theme stopped showing text in Qt application menus.

In terms of how well lightweight operating systems work, Lubuntu is the best. Because Lubuntu was made for low-end PC users, it has a simple LXDE workspace that works well even on machines with as little as 2 GB of RAM and old CPUs. Lubuntu is a flexible option for getting old hardware working again. It comes with three startup packages that are designed to meet different needs.

2. Xubuntu: Powerful Ease of Use

Highlights of Xubuntu:

RAM: 1024MB (512MB min)
Architecture: 32-bit & 64-bit
Latest Version: Lubuntu 23.04 (Released on May 2024)

The Xubuntu is a plug-and-play operating system that works well on low-end PCs. Xubuntu makes it easy to do everyday things like browsing the web and using media players by providing a pre-built package that meets the needs of basic users.

Lightweight Desktop Experience: Xubuntu is made to give you a smooth and useful desktop experience, so it can run on both new and slightly older computers.

Updates Often: Xubuntu gets updates often. Version 23.04 has the latest Xfce 4.18 desktop environment, which has better features like the ability to undo and redo actions, file highlights, and recursive search.

New Software: GNOME Disk Analyzer, GNOME Disk Utility, and Rhythmbox are now pre-installed on Xubuntu, making the basic software package better.

Better Stability: The newest Xfce, GNOME, and MATE apps come with Version 23.10, which makes them more stable and improves memory management and other things.

Xfce Improvements: The Xfce desktop environment has been slightly improved in Xubuntu 23.10. It now has an updated set of core apps.

Community movies: Users can find helpful movies like the “Xubuntu Minimal 23.04 Lunar Lobster” video that show off the best new features of new versions of Xubuntu.

3. Linux Lite is Ubuntu’s small and sweet gem.

As the name suggests, Linux Lite is an extremely light operating system made for PCs with low-end hardware. It is built on Ubuntu’s LTE version, so it will be supported for a long time. Its XFCE-based interface will bring your old PC back to life.

Highlights of Linux Lite:

RAM: 1024MB (512MB min)
CPU: 1.5GHz (700MHz Min)
Architecture: 32-bit & 64-bit
Latest Version: Linux Lite 6.6 (Released on September 2024)

User-Friendly Linux OS: Linux Lite is a free, simple Linux-based OS made for people who are new to Linux.

Updates Often: The system gets updates often. Version 6.6 has a free A.I. chatbot, support for new languages, and a better Lite Welcome app.

Changes to the Window Theme and Other Improvements: Version 6.0 made changes to the window theme and other improvements and fixed bugs.

Compatible with Older Hardware: Linux Lite is known for running well on less powerful hardware, making it a good option to Windows 7 for older PCs.

Ubuntu Base: Linux Lite is built on Ubuntu, so it runs on the stable and well-known Ubuntu ecosystem .

New Upgrade tool: Version 6.2 had a new Lite Upgrade tool that was built in-house. This showed that the distribution cares about making things easy for users .

Alternative to Windows That Is Easy to Use: Linux Lite promotes an easy-to-use experience and positions itself as a helpful alternative to Microsoft Windows, notably Windows 11.

The best things about Linux Lite are its easy-to-use desktop environment, which is built on Ubuntu and makes it a good choice for people who are new to Linux .

4. Manjaro XFCE Edition – Speed Meets Variety

Manjaro’s XFCE desktop is a great choice for people who want to speed up PCs with 2GB of RAM or less. This operating system is built on Linux and comes in different desktop versions. It is fast and doesn’t use many resources.

Highlights of Manjaro XFCE Edition:

RAM: 512MB
CPU: Pentium
Minimum 30GB Disk Space Recommended
Latest Version: Manjaro 23 (Released on September 2024)

User-Friendly Arch-Based System: Manjaro XFCE Edition comes with an Arch Linux-based operating system that is easy to use. It combines the power of Arch with features that make it easy for people to use.

Regular Updates: Manjaro releases regular updates. Version 22.1 includes XFCE 4.18 and new features like the ability to select files from the file properties menu.

Updates for the XFCE desktop: Version 4.16 of the desktop got a new look with new icons and a color scheme, and the Display dialog now supports fractional scaling. This is one of the most important updates.

File Highlighting: The XFCE version of Manjaro 23.0 Uranos keeps improving the user experience by adding a new file highlighting feature that can be accessed from the file settings menu.

As you can see from the call for testers for Manjaro 22.1.0 Talos, the community is urged to get involved. This shows how collaborative Manjaro development is.

5. Arch Linux – Minimalism Redefined

Arch Linux is known for being light, and its minimal GUI setup makes sure that your computer is quick and efficient. Even though you might need to know some shell tools, the speed benefit makes it a great choice.

Highlights of Arch Linux:

RAM: 128MB min (256 MB RAM)
CPU: i686-based or x86-64
Architecture: 32-bit & 64-bit
Latest Release: (2024) Released on September 2024

Package Management: Pacman is the package manager for Arch Linux. It makes it easy for users to install, update, and handle software packages from the Arch User Repository (AUR).

Rolling Release Model: Arch uses a rolling release model, which means that fixes are released all the time without upgrading to a new version. People who use the computer can always get the newest software and security patches.

Arch Wiki: The Arch Wiki is a large and well-kept website that has documentation, guides, and tips for fixing problems. It is helpful for both new and experienced Arch users.

Arch User Repository (AUR): AUR is a community-driven repository where users can share and add PKGBUILD scripts that let you install a lot of software that isn’t in the official repositories.

Minimal Installation: When Arch Linux is installed, it gives users a minimal base system that they can alter and build to suit their own needs and tastes.

Lightweight and Focused on speed: Arch Linux is known for being lightweight and focused on speed. Users can build on top of it in a simple and effective way.

6. Zorin OS – The Windows Alternative with Style

While Zorin OS is built on Ubuntu Linux, it has its own look and features that make it stand out. If you’re new to Linux, Zorin OS is the best way to get rock-solid speed, reliability, and support.

Highlights of Zorin OS:

RAM: 64MB Min
CPU: 400MHz Min
Architecture: 32-bit & 64-bit
Latest Version: Zorin OS 16.3 (Released on July 2024)

User-Friendly Design: Zorin OS is known for being easy to use. It has an interface that is familiar to people who are switching from Windows or macOS, which makes the switch to Linux easier.

Flexible Desktop Layouts: Zorin OS offers several desktop layouts, such as macOS, Windows 11, and Classic Ubuntu layouts, so users can pick the one that works best for them.

Privacy and Security: Zorin OS puts privacy and security first, giving people a safe and private space. In a time when data security is very important, this is very important.

Compliance: Zorin OS works with lots of different programs, and it tries to make it easy for people to use both Linux and Windows programs at the same time.

Regular Updates: Zorin OS keeps a plan of regular updates that make sure users have the newest features, bug fixes, and security patches.

Community and Support: The Zorin OS community is active and helpful, with forums, tutorials, and other online tools available to help users.

7. Bhodi Linux – Streamlined for Linux Enthusiasts

Bhodi Linux is another lightweight Linux distribution that stands out because of how light it is and how often it gets updates. Using the Moksha desktop environment, Bhodi Linux gives users the basics and lets them run extra apps if they want to.

Highlights of Bhodi Linux:

RAM: 512MB (128MB min)
CPU: 1GHz (500MHz Min)
Architecture: 32-bit & 64-bit
Latest Version: 7.0.0 (Released on August 2024)

Moksha Desktop: The Moksha Desktop in Bodhi Linux is a continuation of the Enlightenment desktop system. It has a user interface that looks good and is easy to use.

Ubuntu Base: Because Bodhi Linux is based on Ubuntu, it has all of the security and package support of Ubuntu.

Regular Updates: Bodhi Linux makes sure that users have the newest features, changes, and security patches by updating it on a regular basis.

Customizability: The distribution can be changed in any way users want, so they can make their PC experience fit their needs.

Lightweight Design: Bodhi Linux is known for having a lightweight design, making it good for older hardware or users who like a quick and responsive system.

Better Plymouth and greeting: Version 7.0 makes Plymouth, the boot animation, and the greeting better, which makes the whole user experience better.

Newest Kernel: Bodhi Linux 7.0 has the newest kernel, which makes hardware support and speed better.

8. PeppermintOS – A Breath of Fresh Air for Old Laptops

Based on Ubuntu LTE, Peppermint Linux provides a simplified experience with basic apps, making sure that low-end computers run quickly and smoothly. Its flexibility comes from the LXDE desktop system.

Highlights of Peppermint Linux:

RAM: 1024MB (512MB min)
CPU: Intel x86
Architecture: 32-bit & 64-bit
Latest Version: PeppermintOS (Released on May 2024)

Versatility: Peppermint OS is known for being flexible, letting users build a system that works best for them while still being easy to use.

Ice Application: The Ice application comes with Peppermint OS and lets users make site-specific browsers for web apps, which makes the PC experience better.

Regular Updates: The operating system is updated on a regular basis so that users can get the newest features, bug fixes, and security patches.

Change from LXDE to Xfce: In version 2024-02-02, Peppermint OS made a big change from LXDE to Xfce, which gives users a more feature-rich desktop experience.

Based on Debian Linux: Peppermint 11 is a big change because it no longer uses Ubuntu as its base and instead uses Debian 64-bit, which gives the OS a stable base.

Community-Driven Development: The Peppermint OS is made with help from the community, which creates a place where people can work together and help each other.

9. Raspberry Pi OS Lite – Efficiency in a Compact Form

Like the Debian operating system, Raspberry Pi OS Lite is an image-based OS that starts up to a command line while using very little RAM and CPU. Perfect for people who want a light operating system for reading.

Highlights of Raspberry Pi OS Lite:

Kernel version: 6.1
Architecture: 32-bit & 64-bit
Latest Version: (Released on May 2024)

Raspberry Pi OS Lite is meant to be a minimal operating system with a smaller footprint. It does this by leaving out packages and components that aren’t needed, making it a lighter environment for projects that don’t have a lot of resources.

Headless Configuration: Raspberry Pi OS Lite is often used in headless setups, which means it doesn’t have a graphical user interface (GUI). This makes it good for server apps and projects that don’t need a screen.

Based on Debian: The “Lite” version is based on the most recent version of Debian and only has the most important parts for the system to work.

Terminal-Only Interface: Raspberry Pi OS Lite has a terminal-only interface, which is great for people who are used to working with commands.

Options for Installation: Raspberry Pi OS comes in three different installation forms. The Lite version is one of them. It does not have the desktop setting that is in the full version. Instead, it focuses on a simpler experience.

10. Elementary OS – Elegant and Powerful

Elementary OS, which is based on Ubuntu LTS, stands out because it is small but strong. With a slick user interface that looks a lot like Mac OS, it’s a great choice for people on low-end hardware who want a mix of speed and style.

Highlights of ElementaryOS:

CPU: Intel i3
Architecture: 64-bit
Latest Version: Elementary OS 7 (Released on May 2024)

Designs and Looks: ElementaryOS is famous for its sleek and modern design, which creates a beautiful desktop experience that focuses on being simple and easy to use.

Consistent System Coherence: ElementaryOS’s whole system is meant to feel like it works together, giving users a consistent and unified experience across the whole system.

Privacy changes: The newest version (ElementaryOS 7.1) has privacy changes, better accessibility, improvements to the AppCenter, and better support for gestures.

Desktop Goodness That Doesn’t Change: ElementaryOS 7 keeps up the high standards set by its peers by providing an excellent desktop experience.

Lightweight and Fast: ElementaryOS is known for being light and fast, and its user experience is responsive and effective.

11. PopOS – Bridging the Gap for Low-End PCs

PopOS is a great operating system for old PCs because it is based on the current GNOME interface and Ubuntu. It came out in 2017 and offers smooth performance, which makes it a great choice for people whose hardware has trouble with Windows.

Highlights of PopOS:

Kernel Type: Monolithic (Linux kernel)
Architecture: 64-bit
Latest Version: Pop!_OS 22.04 (Released on May 2024)

Open-Source Linux Distribution: Pop!_OS is a free and open-source Linux distribution that is built on Ubuntu and has a customized version of GNOME called COSMIC.

modified Desktop Environment – COSMIC: Pop!_OS has a modified GNOME desktop environment called COSMIC that gives users a unique experience with the interface.

Window Gap Adjustments and current Hints: Users can turn on Active Hints, which makes the current application window stand out in a color of their choice. You can change the window gap to make the experience your own.

Daily Driver Operating System: Pop!_OS is thought to be the best choice for a daily driver operating system because it has more benefits than Windows or macOS.

Regular Updates: Pop!_OS gets updates all the time. Version 22.04, which is built on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and adds new features and fixes bugs, is one of the most recent versions.

12. NimbleX – Swift and Nimble for Older Hardware

Even though it isn’t being worked on anymore, NimbleX is still a small but powerful operating system for cheap computers. It can start up from different sources and lets you browse the web, chat, and do other things without installing anything.

Highlights of NimbleX:

RAM: 256MB
CPU: Pentium II
Architecture: 32-bit & 64-bit
Latest Version: NimbleX 2008 (Released on July 2008)

Slackware-Based Linux release: NimbleX is a small Linux release that works best from a CD, a USB drive, or a network. It’s built on Slackware and is known for being fast and small.

Flexible Deployment: NimbleX can be run from a CD, a USB drive, or a network, giving you a number of deployment choices.

Frequent Updates: NimbleX gets regular updates, with new versions like 5.4, 5.6, and 5.5 coming out all the time. Each one adds new features and fixes bugs.

Live CD Generator: NimbleX has a Live CD Generator that users can use to make their own NimbleX Live CD with their own choice of apps and settings.

Experimental Safe Installer: NimbleX has an Experimental Safe Installer that makes the installation process safer and provides better LZM compression.

13. CloudReady – ChromeOS Experience for Any PC

CloudReady is a very light PC experience that is worth mentioning, even though it is not a Linux-based system. It’s an alternative to ChromeOS that works great for surfing. It was made by Neverware and is now officially part of Google.

Highlights of CloudReady

CloudReady is built on Google’s Chromium OS, which makes it fast, easy to use, and safe, just like Chromebooks and Chrome OS.

Changes to Older Computers: CloudReady can turn Windows and Mac computers that are up to 13 years old into Chromebooks, which is a cheap option for businesses.

Secure and Manageable: CloudReady is meant to improve the overall performance of an organization’s computers by making them safer, easier to manage, and less likely to slow down.

Free Version for Home: Since CloudReady Home is a slightly changed version of Chromium OS and is free, it can be used by individual users.

corporate Adoption: CloudReady is used by corporate CIOs, and its main product turns older Windows and Mac computers into systems that work like Chromebooks, making them more useful.

App Portfolio Evaluation: CloudReady does app portfolio evaluations for PaaS (Platform as a Service) and offers a tool called Highlight to quickly and accurately evaluate apps.

14. Chrome OS Flex – Chrome OS for All

Chrome OS Flex is a lighter version of the original Chrome OS that lets low-end computers run PC apps without any problems. It’s a lightweight option for a number of devices, but it lacks some features.

Highlights of CloudReady Chrome OS Flex

Operating System Based on the Cloud: Chrome OS Flex is an operating system based on the cloud that was created by Google. It makes PCs and Macs faster, easier to handle, and safer.

Based on Chromium OS: Chrome OS Flex and Chrome OS share the same core technology and control tools. It can be put on devices that run Windows, Mac, or Linux and gives people most of Chrome OS’s features.

Compatibility with Older Devices: It can be installed on a lot of different devices, even older PCs and Macs, making it a long-term way to bring old gear up to date.

Focus on Cloud Computing: Chrome OS Flex puts more focus on cloud-based services, which is in line with the trend toward cloud-centric computing. This is because cloud computing is becoming more and more common.

Automatic Updates: Like Chromebooks, Chrome OS Flex devices get the newest features instantly, so the user experience is always new and quick.

Automatic Integration with AnyDesk: The AnyDesk Remote Desktop app for Chrome OS works perfectly with Chrome OS Flex devices, making remote desktop work very smoothly.

Best OS for 32-Bit Laptops

As more computers switch to 64-bit systems, it gets harder to find operating systems that work with 32-bit machines. Even though 32-bit versions are getting less support, some lightweight operating systems still work with them, so they can still be used.

15. Ubuntu Server – Light OS for Specialized Tasks

Ubuntu Server OS is the best choice for people who want to turn their old laptop or PC into a small server. Since it doesn’t have a GUI, it works very quickly and efficiently on slower computers.

Gaming on Low-End PCs: The Out of the Box Options

Windows has been the standard for gaming for a long time, but Zorin OS and Elementary OS look like interesting options for low-end PCs. These free operating systems are good choices for gamers because they strike a good mix between performance and resource efficiency.

Conclusion – Choose Wisely for Your Low-End PC

In conclusion, there are a lot of different lightweight operating systems for low-end PCs, each one designed to meet different wants and tastes. Whether you want to make your daily jobs, games, or specialized functions faster, the options above will help you turn your old hardware into a productivity powerhouse. Make a smart choice based on your general needs, and say goodbye to slow, out-of-date operating systems.