Choosing a rolling release Linux distribution means you get the latest software without having to reinstall the OS. But not all Linux rolling releases are created equal in terms of stability. Hopefully, this guide will help you select the best balance between the most up-to-date and most stable rolling release Linux distribution. Note: These rankings… continue reading.
This didn’t make the article because I haven’t worked with it enough, but Guix is also a rolling-release Linux distribution—built on the Guix package manager.
Unlike traditional rolling distributions, Guix employs a declarative approach. A declarative approach means instead of manually installing and configuring software, you describe the system state in a configuration file. The system then ensures it matches that description.
For example, in Guix, you can install packages with guix install <package>, similar to apt install or dnf install. However, Guix also allows users to define their entire system declaratively in a configuration file. If you change this file (e.g., add or remove software), Guix rebuilds the system accordingly, ensuring a reproducible and rollback-friendly environment.
This allows: Reproducibility – If you set up another system with the same config, it will be identical. Rollback – Since system states are tracked, you can undo config/system changes.
This means a higher level of system integrity than traditional rolling releases, where you need to manually fix things after an update.
Because its package management is different from traditional tools like apt, dnf or pacman, the learning curve is also steeper for newcomers like me.
Also, its repository is smaller than mainstream distributions, so you may often need to package or build things yourself.
One thing I’d add is that while Guix’s focus on libre software is admirable, it might be limiting for users needing proprietary drivers or codecs, where NixOS could be a more practical choice.
Still, both NixOS and Guix are nice alternatives to classic package managers, especially for those who want to maximize system integrity and customization.
Nice article. I’m glad you put Manjaro at the bottom of the list; I’ve tried it multiple times; it didn’t make it even a day the most recent time; I noticed they produced another image quickly, so maybe they fixed their problems.
Regarding Gentoo Linux, unless there is a fully prepared image available, I’ve found it too cumbersome to build with not enough payback to make it worthwhile; since I know how to build code, that’s not a motivation for spending a ridiculous amount of time putting it together.
I’ve enjoyed PCLinuxOS for many years; it’s one of my favorite rolling release distros. I’ve not done much with Void, but I’ve read positive things about it.
I completely agree with you that openSUSE Tumbleweed is the most stable, consistent rolling release. I’ve never once had a problem with it.
To be honest I had it further up. But user feedback on Reddit told me that was wrong. As you are also confirming. That’s unfortunate because it was a lot more stable when first released.
