In the world of computing, Linux is the third most favorite desktop operating system. It may have small desktop market share, but it is much more diverse compared to Microsoft Windows and macOS. This diversity can give users multiple options to choose from, but it can also make your life a little bit difficult when looking for a Linux distribution for your desktop computer.
One thing that you may want to consider while searching for a suitable Linux distribution for yourself is "release model". A release model defines how fast your operating system is going to change. These changes may include incremental addition of features as well as update to the software repository. It is worthwhile to check release model of operating system you wish to install. The following release models are available for Linux:
- Fixed
- Fixed (LTS)
- Rolling
- Semi-Rolling
Fixed
In the fixed released model, the major changes to the operating system are released on fixed schedule. For example, if you are using Gnome 41 as your desktop environment in your current Linux distribution and Gnome 42 is already out then newer version of Gnome will most likely be shipped with next version of your Linux distribution. These Linux distributions may push minor updates and security patches as and when needed. The advantage of having fixed release is that it may be more stable than rolling release. Most desktop orientated Linux distributions follow fixed release model. Ubuntu, Fedora, Linux Mint etc. follow fixed release model.
Fixed (LTS)
The Fixed (LTS) model is same as Fixed model, but the changes are made after really long time. Usually, Linux distributions with Fixed model takes at least six or more months to release newer version. On the other hand, the Fixed (LTS) release can be supported for extended period of time. For example, Ubuntu pushes their normal release after 6 months while its LTS version is released after 2 years.
Rolling
A Linux distribution with rolling release model is constantly updated. You don't need to install major updates at once, rather each update is pushed as it is released. A Linux distribution with rolling release will probably be the most updated operating system. The downside of using rolling release is that updates can be frequent and may bring new problems rather than fixes in the system. Arch Linux is the best example of a rolling release.
Semi-Rolling
Linux distributions with this release model will constantly update some parts of the operating system while other parts may not get frequent updates. Usually, Kernel and other system software are not updated while you may get most recent releases of applications of even desktop environments. KDE Neon is the best example of semi-rolling release. It does not update its Ubuntu base but tries to keep desktop environment and its applications up to date.
Which one to choose?
In my personal opinion, semi-rolling releases are best suitable for daily usage. It keeps your system up to date but on a stable base, which is usually not updated as frequently as a rolling release. Above-mentioned KDE Neon is the best option for me and any lover of KDE desktop environments.
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