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Add to SafariWhen comparing Parabola GNU/Linux-libre vs Linux From Scratch, the Slant community recommends Parabola GNU/Linux-libre for most people. In the question“What are the best Linux distributions for desktops?” Parabola GNU/Linux-libre is ranked 15th while Linux From Scratch is ranked 63rd.
Specs
Question Ranking
Pros
Pro Protects your freedom, certified free by the FSF
Pro Option to use OpenRC or Systemd
Parabola has an OpenRC edition and a Systemd edition, so users can choose which init system they want.
Pro All the benefits of Arch Linux, only 100% certified free software
Pro Very Secure
Pro Has its own repos
Parabola has its own repos (which are almost as large as Arch Linux) and the IceCat browser is included.
Pro Can be migrated from Arch Linux without a CD/USB
Pro Based on Arch Linux
Pro Best for learning the components, libraries and configurations of the whole system one-by-one
It is an opportunity for the learner to learn what's behind every piece of program in the system, because you will install and configure all the packages manually. It is also as an advantage to expand your knowledge by searching the possibilities of crafting your unique flavor, for example your own package manager and update schemes.
Pro For those who wonder what it takes to create an actual Linux distribution
It's a very useful learning experience; showing the user what is required and in what order, to obtain a running Linux system - from the inside out.
Cons
Con Won't work out-of-the-box on the most PC's
Almost all PCs need non-free drivers but Parabola has none to offer.
Con Not compatible with AUR
Unlike other Arch-based distros, this free distro doesn't support AUR.
Con Same cons that apply to Arch Linux
Con Small repositories
Since Parabola is a completely free distro, there is no non-free software available and the community repositories are small compared to the AUR.
Con Incompetent developers
They only care about removing "non-free" software, rather than making a properly working OS.
Con Serves no purpose
It's just Arch without non-free software and is basically a niche OS with few users.
Con Not really free
People have to pay hundreds to maintain this distro.
Con Not recommended for Beginners
By creating a Linux system from scratch you will be managing and compiling all of the systems packages by hand, so advanced Linux knowledge is recommended.
Con Takes a while to create the system. Only for those people who would like to create their very own distribution, or just to understand what makes a Linux system tick.
Linux From Scratch, requires the user to download and compile, all the various required system libraries and programs in a ch-rooted environment. This is usually done from within an existing and already running Linux system. This is not really a con, just a note to the new user.
