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openSUSE Leap and openSUSE Tumbleweed: the difference
openSUSE is particularly known for its excellent support of the KDE Plasma desktop environment. It also offers GNOME as an alternative desktop environment.
openSUSE is a popular Linux distribution known for its stability, flexibility, and user-friendly interface. It is developed by the openSUSE Project and sponsored by SUSE, a leading enterprise Linux company. openSUSE offers two main versions: Leap and Tumbleweed, each catering to different user needs and preferences.
Stable Release vs Rolling Release
Leap is designed for stability and reliability, making it suitable for production environments and users who prefer a more predictable system. Leap versions typically receive updates for about 18 months, with some versions offering longer support. Leap often includes older but well-tested software, which can be beneficial for hardware compatibility and stability.
Tumbleweed is a rolling release distribution, meaning it continuously receives updates with the latest software versions. Users get access to the newest features and security patches as soon as they are available. Despite being a rolling release, Tumbleweed is generally stable due to its rigorous testing process.
Key Difference
| Feature | Tumbleweed | Leap |
|---|---|---|
| Release Model | Rolling release | Point release |
| Update Frequency | Continuous | Periodic (approx. annually) |
| Stability | Generally stable but cutting-edge | Highly stable |
| Software Versions | Latest available | Older, more tested versions |
| Ideal For | Developers, enthusiasts | New users, production environments |
More to know about openSUSE
Desktop environment
openSUSE is particularly known for its excellent support of the KDE Plasma desktop environment. It also offers GNOME as an alternative desktop environment. Users can choose from a variety of other desktop environments like XFCE, LXQt, and more.
Package manager
openSUSE uses the zypper package manager, which is efficient and easy to use. The YaST (Yet Another Setup Tool) control center provides a comprehensive system management interface.
Community
openSUSE has a vibrant community with active forums and documentation. Users can contribute to the development process through openSUSE Factory, which is the development branch for Tumbleweed. openSUSE has a strong focus on security with regular updates and patches. Active community provides extensive support and documentation.
Choose Tumbleweed for the latest updates and features if you are comfortable managing potential instabilities. Opt for Leap if you prefer a stable system with periodic updates that require less maintenance.
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