ZDNET’s key takeaways
- If you need AI, try one of these Linux distros.
- Some systems include AI out of the box.
- Others require a bit of configuration.
No matter how hard you try, it’s getting harder and harder to escape the train of AI. It’s built into most apps, services and operating systems we use. AI is in Windows as Copilot, in MacOS as Apple Intelligence, and AI is also starting to make its way into Linux.
Also: The 6 AI-Free Linux Distros I Most Recommend – and Why They’ll Probably Stay That Way
The good news is that most Linux distributions do not have the technology built into their systems in such a way that it cannot be ignored or removed.
However, if you love using AI and are looking for a distribution that makes working with AI a little easier, I’ve compiled a best-of list for you.
Let’s get into it.
1. Pop!_OS
System76 built Pop!_OS for “creators.” Of course, when technicians say “creators” they generally mean developers. However, the appeal of this distribution to creators goes far beyond the devs. I’m a writer, and I use Pop!_OS regularly.
The important thing to understand is that you can download one of two versions of the OS: one for AMD GPUs and one for Nvidia GPUs. If you use AI (especially local AI), the best way is via an Nvidia GPU. Most AI systems are built specifically for AMD hardware. If you don’t have an Nvidia GPU, your AI will run in CPU mode, which is exponentially slower.
As well: 7 things every Linux beginner should know before downloading their first distro
Before installing Pop!_OS, make sure you download the correct ISO for your GPU hardware. This way you can be sure that the correct drivers are installed automatically.
This simplicity is the main reason why I put Pop!_OS on the list (well, that and it’s gorgeous). If you plan to use locally installed AI, go directly to Nvidia hardware and use the Pop!_OS Nvidia ISO.
2. Fedora
Screenshot by Jack Wallen/ZDNETThe main thing you need to know about Fedora is that the organization created the Fedora AI Developer Desktop Initiative. New AI-centric Fedora Atomic Desktops are being spawned from this program.
These desktops have not been released yet. But you can bet that when it does, Fedora will do it right.
The main goal of the Fedora AI Developer Desktop Initiative is to build a thriving community around AI technologies. This community focuses on equipping developers with the tools to ensure that users experience painless deployment and use of AI applications.
Also: PearOS is the MacOS of Linux, and the latest version is better than ever
This initiative started in March, so I would expect some developments to come to light soon.
In the meantime, Fedora is still a good option for AI because of its powerful container support and commitment to security.
3. CacheOS
Screenshot by Jack Wallen/ZDNETFirst, CachyOS is the fastest desktop operating system available. The developers made some tweaks to boost performance, and they hit the nail on the head.
Because of the highly customized kernel, CachyOS delivers speed unlike any other operating system, and the more speed you can give AI, the better off you are.
Also: I’ve tried the KDE Plasma 6.8 beta, and it’s hands down as good as it gets
But CachyOS isn’t just about speed. You also get the latest Nvidia (CUDA) and AMD (ROCm) drivers, which are crucial for running AI successfully on the desktop. The latest and greatest drivers mean you don’t have to go on wild goose chases to find what you need.
Another great thing about CachyOS is that it automatically detects your GPU and installs the best drivers, so you don’t have to worry before installing or using AI. Even if you don’t get pre-installed AI services, the cachey OS drivers and speed go a long way to improve the AI experience.
4. MainstreamOS
Screenshot by Jack Wallen/ZDNETMainstreamOS gives you AI out of the box. The only caveat is that you must carefully configure the desktop by connecting it to your AI account. The MainstreamOS AI system lets you use a locally installed AI (such as Ollama) in Gemini, Claude, Codex or Mistral.
If you opt for local AI, make sure your machine has the power to support it. You certainly don’t want to run a query and slow down your system to the point that it becomes unusable.
As well: Can MainstreamOS finally make Linux a household name? I tried to figure it out
The second thing MainstreamOS does is use the Hyprland window manager a wand (which is traditionally a complicated window manager).
With MainstreamOS, the AI is served as a sidebar that you can call up or dismiss with ease. Bring up the AI sidebar, submit your request, read the results and dismiss the sidebar. There is no need to install extra apps to use this service. Just connect it to your AI account of choice, grab an API key, paste it into the AI configuration, and you’re good to go.
5. Linux-AI OS
Screenshot by Jack Wallen/ZDNETLinux-AI OS is one of the newest distributions on the block, but it sure doesn’t feel like it. This distribution uses AI sparingly, but effectively. For example, you get locally installed AI (Ollama) out of the box and connected to the app, so no extra configuration is required.
With Linux-AI OS, you install the operating system, log into your account and start using AI. It’s about as simple as AI gets.
Also: This Linux distro, which I recommend for power users, takes a unique approach to OS design
Like the other distributions on this list, make sure to install Linux-AI OS on hardware that can handle the task. No matter how small or large your model is, it still needs resources to support the heavy lifting.
But if you want out-of-the-box AI on Linux, you can’t go wrong with Linux-AI OS.
See full bio