Raspberry Pi is a popular mini board that is highly versatile & very powerful for its size. There’s a lot you can do with if you’re so inclined — build IoT apps, employ it as a standard PC, use it for retro gaming. However, if you intend to use it as a computer, you need to install a compliant Operating System (OS).
There are several systems that work well with the Raspberry Pi. In this article, we take a look at some of Raspberry Pi OS:
1.Raspbian
This is the default OS offered for the Raspberry Pi & as such is very easy to install. It is Desbian based & has a LXDE desktop for user interaction. The OS has a large community of developers & fans, all of whom offer advise on forums & free apps, which regularly add to the 35000 already available.
2.Ubuntu MATE
To get Ubuntu working on your Raspberry Pi you need to install the Ubuntu Mate version of Ubuntu, which has the MATE desktop specifically for the Raspberry Pi. You’ll also need, at least, a 6GB SD Card, so that you have enough space. This is an environment many fans of Linux prefer.
3. Ubuntu Snappy
This is a lightweight version of Ubuntu, which is also specifically made for Raspberry, but unlike MATE, you only need a 4GB SD Card to run the system. Is comes with a completely different set of apps, which maintain its lightweight nature. Also, there’s a lot of information & assistance offered around this system.
4. Diet Pi
Extremely lightweight, the Diet Pi, is Desbian based & is 3 x lighter than Raspbian Lite. With images starting at only 400MB, it is also highly optimized for minimal CPU & RAM resource usage, ensuring your SBC always runs at its maximum potential. There’s also a ton of software available for the system.
5. OSMC
Very good OS for managing media Content, this open source system is easy to install & use. OSMC is based on Desbian, Linux & the Kodi Media Center. It offers an App Store that lets you customize your experience, & can play any type of media content in an optimized manner. It also offers support for a variety of devices & streaming protocols.
So, if you want a desktop & have a little time on your hands, Raspberry Pi, is all you need.
Image credit: Raspberry Pi
