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MX Linux
What it is
MX Linux is a free family of Linux operating systems built from Debian Stable repositories for desktop use, with a focus on efficiency, stability and performance. Its official editions use Xfce, KDE or Fluxbox. MX’s graphical tools cover system tasks such as boot options and repository management, while MX Updater checks packages, offers upgrade modes and supports scheduled unattended upgrades. MX Package Installer provides access to applications from Debian Stable, MX Test Repo, Debian Backports and Flatpak; listed compatibility also includes Snap on supported setups and AppImage. Live USB and snapshot tools support portable use and remastering, and the system can be installed on desktop and laptop computers. Xfce is available in standard and Advanced Hardware Support editions; KDE includes Dolphin, KDE Connect and MX Tools. MX Linux automatically receives Debian Stable security updates, and its ISO Signature Verifier checks signed checksums. Support resources include videos, documentation, a user manual and the MX Linux Forum. Major releases follow new Debian Stable releases, roughly every two years.
For and against
For
- Free Linux distribution
- Three official desktop editions
- Live USB and snapshot tools
- Automatic Debian Stable security updates
- Package access includes Debian Backports and Flatpak
Against
- Official MX-25 releases are 64-bit only
- Ubuntu PPAs will likely cause problems
- Firewall may interfere with printer discovery
The verdict
MX Linux offers multiple desktop editions, package tools and live-system capabilities at no cost. Check its 64-bit MX-25 requirement and package compatibility cautions before choosing it.
Who it suits
MX Linux suits people seeking a free desktop operating system for a desktop or laptop, including users who want Xfce, KDE or Fluxbox. Its Xfce hardware options may also interest users of older laptops or modern desktops.
Plans and prices
MX Linux
Free Linux distribution · Xfce, KDE and Fluxbox editions
Read 5 Oct 2026 · mxlinux.org
On the record
- Community
- MX Linux is a cooperative venture between the antiX and MX Linux communities.mail.mxlinux.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Community support
- The project describes support through videos, documentation and a forum.mxlinux.org · read 5 Oct 2026
- Desktop choices
- The official editions include Xfce, KDE and Fluxbox.mxlinux.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Desktop editions
- The official editions are Xfce, KDE and Fluxbox.mxlinux.org · read 5 Oct 2026
- Firewall
- Starting with MX Linux 23, the firewall is enabled and set to deny incoming connections; the FAQ notes this may interfere with printer discovery and some applications.mxlinux.org · read 5 Oct 2026
- Fluxbox features
- The Fluxbox edition has a restricted default package set, custom configuration apps, dock and icon tools, and a tint2 panel.mail.mxlinux.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Hardware support
- The Xfce edition supports hardware from older laptops to modern desktops and is available in standard and Advanced Hardware Support versions.mail.mxlinux.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Intended users
- The project describes MX as a midweight desktop operating system designed for stability, performance and efficient desktops.mxlinux.org · read 5 Oct 2026
- ISO verification
- MX provides a GUI ISO Signature Verifier for checking signed checksums and ISO integrity.mxlinux.org · read 5 Oct 2026
- KDE features
- The KDE edition includes Dolphin, KDE Connect, MX Tools and customizable activities, themes and icons.mail.mxlinux.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Live and remastering
- Live USB and snapshot tools provide portability and remastering capabilities.mail.mxlinux.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Live USB and snapshots
- Live USB and snapshot tools provide portability and remastering capabilities.mxlinux.org · read 5 Oct 2026
- MX Tools
- MX’s graphical tools provide ways to perform a wide variety of system tasks.mxlinux.org · read 5 Oct 2026
- Package compatibility
- The FAQ warns that installing Ubuntu PPAs on MX will likely cause problems because Ubuntu is not Debian.mxlinux.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Package compatibility limit
- The FAQ cautions that installing Ubuntu PPAs will likely cause problems because Ubuntu is not Debian.mxlinux.org · read 5 Oct 2026
- Package installation
- MX Package Installer provides access to popular applications, Debian Stable, MX Test Repo, Debian Backports and Flatpaks.mxlinux.org · read 5 Oct 2026
- Package sources
- The MX Package Installer offers popular applications and packages from MX Test Repo, Debian Backports and Flatpaks.mail.mxlinux.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Purpose
- MX Linux is a family of operating systems built from Debian Stable repositories for elegant, efficient desktops with high stability and solid performance.mxlinux.org · read 5 Oct 2026
