Armbian
Armbian is a lightweight Linux distribution made specifically for single-board computers and embedded devices like Raspberry Pi, Orange Pi, and Banana Pi. It offers a minimal yet fully functional operating system optimized for stability, performance, and security.
linux
raspberry-pi
orange-pi
banana-pi
embedded-systems
Armbian: Lightweight Linux Distribution
A minimal yet fully functional OS optimized for single-board computers and embedded devices, ensuring stability, performance, and security.
What is Armbian?
Armbian is a Debian or Ubuntu-based Linux distribution specifically tailored for single-board computers and embedded devices. It started as a project to optimize Linux for the Orange Pi board but has expanded to support popular SBCs like Raspberry Pi, Banana Pi, Odroid and Pine64.
Some key features of Armbian include:
- Lightweight and fast - uses optimized kernel and drivers for maximum performance on limited hardware
- Easy to install - simple flashing process from ready-made images
- Highly customizable - tons of configuration options to tweak the OS as per your needs
- Enhanced security - hardened kernel, app armor support and frequent updates
- Active community - helpful forums and detailed documentation for assistance
Armbian makes it easy to put a Debian or Ubuntu distro on low-powered boards like Raspberry Pi and enjoy a fully-functional Linux system with access to ample software in the Debian/Ubuntu repos. The streamlined interface and careful optimization make Armbian a great choice for Linux-based embedded, robotics, automation and IoT projects.
Armbian Features
Features
- Optimized for SBCs like Raspberry Pi, Orange Pi, Banana Pi
- Lightweight Linux distribution
- Minimal yet fully functional OS
- Optimized for stability, performance and security
- Supports Debian and Ubuntu bases
- Variety of desktop environments
- Active community support
Pricing
- Open Source
- Free
Pros
Lightweight and fast
Stable and reliable
Highly customizable
Actively maintained
Good hardware support
Easy to install and use
Cons
Limited default software selection
May require some Linux knowledge for setup
Not all SBCs fully supported
Documentation can be lacking in areas
Official Links
The Best Armbian Alternatives
Top System & Hardware and Single Board Computers and other similar apps like Armbian
Here are some alternatives to Armbian:
Suggest an alternative ❐
Ubuntu
Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions available today. It is based on Debian and completely free and open source. Some key points about Ubuntu:It has an easy to use and intuitive interface, making it great for Linux beginners.It has a wide variety of official flavors featuring different...
Raspberry Pi OS
Raspberry Pi OS, previously called Raspbian, is the official operating system for Raspberry Pi. It is based on Debian Linux and optimized for Raspberry Pi's ARM processors. Raspberry Pi OS comes with a desktop environment and suite of applications for education, programming, productivity and more.Some key features of Raspberry Pi...
Arch Linux
Arch Linux is a lightweight, flexible Linux distribution designed for experienced Linux users who want control and customization of their system. Some key features of Arch Linux include:Rolling release model - Arch gets continuous updates rather than point releases, ensuring you always have the latest software.Uses Pacman package manager -...
Archcraft
Archcraft is a Linux distribution based on Arch Linux that focuses on providing a lightweight yet fully functional desktop environment. It uses the Openbox window manager and tint2 panel by default, aiming to offer high performance while using fewer system resources.Some key features of Archcraft include:Uses the rolling release model...
Zen Installer
Zen Installer is an open-source software installation tool designed for Linux operating systems. It aims to make installing software easy for all levels of users while still providing advanced customization options.Some key features of Zen Installer include:Graphical wizard interface to walk users step-by-step through installationSupport for deb and rpm packagesAdvanced...
Anarchy Installer
Anarchy Installer is a Linux distribution based on Arch Linux and focuses on providing a simple graphical installation process and easy post-install configuration. Some key features of Anarchy Installer include:Uses a custom graphical installer called Anarchy to guide the user through setup and configurationInstalls a minimal base system with only...
