Hello, I'm looking for a new distro that aligns with my privacy preferences and offers a wide range of packages without requiring me to search for PPAs, similar to Manjaro. I've grown uneasy about Manjaro's decision to collect unique data like MAC addresses and disk serial numbers by default, even if it's for diagnostic purposes.
In light of this, I'd like to ask for your recommendations on a Linux distro that meets the following criteria:
- No opt-out telemetry: I'm looking for a distro that doesn't collect any unique data by default.
- Access to a wide range of packages: I prefer a distro that offers a vast repository of packages, so I don't have to search for PPAs or third-party repositories.
- User-friendly: I'm not a fan of complicated configurations or steep learning curves, so a distro with a user-friendly approach would be ideal.
I'm curious to hear any recommendations you might have. Thanks!
You probably shouldn't be using an arch based distro if you want a user friendly experience.
I know there are things like manjaro and even endeavor os that are "arch but easy" but honestly I cannot in good faith recommend anything arch based for ease of use. Arch is a very fast moving distribution that usually has the newest packages but that isn't always good. There will eventually be a problem come up, maybe not often and maybe not that serious but in my personal opinion it's not worth it.
If you are wanting consistent ease of use and access to a lot of packages it's hard to beat the mainstream distros. Mint, Ubuntu, Fedora, (personal favorite) etc... and if you need something from arch repositories just use distrobox. You get access to all arch packages without the headache.