linux4noobs

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linux4noobs

Noob Friendly, Expert Enabling

Whether you're a seasoned pro or the noobiest of noobs, you've found the right place for Linux support and information. With a dedication to supporting free and open source software, this community aims to ensure Linux fits your needs and works for you. From troubleshooting to tutorials, practical tips, news and more, all aspects of Linux are warmly welcomed. Join a community of like-minded enthusiasts and professionals driving Linux's ongoing evolution.

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PlutoParty@programming.dev

Which distro's recommended for simple media PC? (sh.itjust.works)

submitted 1 week ago by tab@sh.itjust.works to c/linux4noobs@programming.dev

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Not a total linux noob, plenty of experience using them for servers @ work. Less experience with using them with GUIs and for other computing use.

I've got an intel nuc i3 that I use as a media pc. It doesn't do (or need to do) more than allow me to browse files and play videos (mkv, mp4, just the usual fare). I don't really need or want something like Kodi. I just have the stuff I want to play on my NAS and smb or nfs mount to get at it. Specs aren't great, but it doesn't need to run 4k, so it's been fine. Perhaps I use clementine once in a blue moon to play a few mp3s when hosting a party or dinner. (And I toy around with the IR reader of the nuc so I can make my own media buttons on a programmable remote, but that's not super important.)

That's pretty much it.

Currently I run Ubuntu on it, but it takes so long to boot. What are your distro recommendations? Not afraid to tinker, I doubt I'll ever become an Archlinux user.

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[–] ArsonButCute@programming.dev 3 points 1 week ago*

How much work do you want to do?

None - Librelec is already configured for media center usage. Install and use.

Little - Fedora IOT. Set up the system, which has a small core, verify you've got the right drivers, plasma bigscreen, your media apps.

Lots - Arch linux. Same thing, set up the small core (manually), then handle drivers, plasma bigscreen, your media apps.

Lots (But I don't like systemd). Go Void. It's the same as arch (more or less) but you use runit instead of systemd.

Full Control. Go Gentoo. This is probably overkill here unless you've got some kind of restrictions to meet. You know your needs best.

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