Top 5 Lightweight Linux Distros to Revive Your Old PC in 2025

Revitalize Your Old PC with Lightweight Linux Distributions

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Do you have an old PC lying around? Perhaps your trusty Windows 10 machine won't support Windows 11, and you're not inclined to purchase a new one just yet. What can you do? An excellent solution is to install a lightweight Linux distribution. These operating systems typically have minimal system requirements, often making older machines perform like brand new ones.

Also: 10 Linux apps I install on every new machine (and why you should, too)

While there are many distributions claiming to be lightweight, I've limited my recommendations to those with system requirements of no more than a 1GHz CPU, 2GB of RAM, and a minimum of 10GB storage. Additionally, I've only selected distributions that provide a good balance between performance and features. So, which one should you choose? Let me guide you through some of the best options.

1. Linux Lite

Linux Lite is one of the top choices for lightweight Linux distributions. Based on Ubuntu LTS and designed with user-friendliness in mind, Linux Lite uses the Xfce desktop, offering a clean and simple UI without sacrificing features.

Also: This lightweight Linux distro is the best (and easiest) way to revive your old computer. Here's how

Once installed, Linux Lite comes with essential applications, including Chrome, LibreOffice, GIMP, Photo Manager, Deja Dup Backups, VLC media player, a USB image writer, an onscreen keyboard, Timeshift for restore points, and more. If you need additional apps, the Synaptic Package Manager GUI can help you find what you're looking for.

System Requirements for Linux Lite
CPU: 1GHz or faster
RAM: 1GB
Storage: 8GB

Linux Lite is available for free download and installation.

2. AntiX

AntiX AntiX is another lightweight distribution, although it’s geared more towards users with some Linux experience. It uses the zzzFM-IceWM window manager, which might be less user-friendly if you're a Linux newcomer. However, once set up, you'll find it incredibly fast.

Also: Why this lightweight Linux distro won't win any popularity contests but is perfect for power users

AntiX includes various pre-installed applications like Firefox, LibreOffice, Firejail, and numerous media players. This ensures that an older computer performs like a new one right out of the box.

System Requirements for AntiX
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD Athlon 64 X2
RAM: 1GB or more
Storage: 10GB or more
Graphics: Any graphics card with 3D acceleration

3. Bodhi Linux

Bodhi Linux stands out for its unique Moksha Desktop, a fork of Enlightenment. It offers an aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly interface, making it a great choice for those who prefer a unique look and feel for their operating system.

Also: Bodhi Linux can make an old computer feel brand new

A notable feature of Bodhi Linux is its right-click desktop menu, which provides a quick and efficient way to access applications and settings. Despite its minimalistic approach, it boasts various themes that enhance its visual appeal.

System Requirements for Bodhi Linux
CPU: 1.0GHz or faster
RAM: 768MB
Storage: 10GB

4. BunsenLabs

BunsenLabs Linux, a continuation of the beloved CrunchBang Linux, combines stability and performance through its Debian base. It utilizes the OpenBox window manager, tint2 panel, Conky, and jgmenu to create a lightweight yet highly functional user experience.

Also: This Linux distribution surprised me with its minimalistic yet highly-functional operating system

Users will appreciate its ease of use and quick adaptation period. The inclusion of a desktop mouse menu similar to Bodhi Linux enhances its utility and user-friendliness.

System Requirements for BunsenLabs Linux
CPU: 1GHz or faster
RAM: 2GB
Storage: 20GB

5. Lubuntu

Lubuntu Lubuntu is an official spin of Ubuntu that uses the LXQt desktop. It's known for being fast and user-friendly, making it an excellent choice for those familiar with the Windows interface.

Also: Lubuntu is Linux for those looking to simplify and speed up their desktop experience

Lubuntu retains many features of Ubuntu, including Snap package support, a stable kernel, a set of pre-installed software, and access to the Ubuntu repositories. It also features the KDE Plasma's Discover app store, allowing users to easily install the necessary applications.

System Requirements for Lubuntu
CPU: 1GHz or faster
RAM: 1GB
Storage: 5GB

Any of the above Linux distributions can breathe new life into your aging PC. If your computer can't handle Windows 11, consider giving one of these distributions a try to extend its useful life for several more years.