ZDNET key takeaways
- Some free distros should offer premium editions.
- Some could add support, some extra software, and even aesthetics.
- This could be another way to attract new users.
I’ve been using Linux since 1997, and there have been many times when I’ve thought, “Why doesn’t X distro have a paid version?”
Seriously. Some Linux distributions are so good that you would either think they should cost something, or at least have a paid tier that includes added features you don’t find in other distributions.
ZorinOS does it, as does Linux-AI OS, so the model is there, ready for other distribution developers to follow suit.
Also: Linux Mint vs. Zorin OS: I’ve tried both Windows alternatives, and here’s my winner
I know what you’re thinking: Why would any Linux distribution developer ask someone to pay for something that is already free?
There are plenty of reasons for this: added features, extra layouts, pre-configured apps or window managers, pro-level apps, etc.
Let me explain by way of example.
1. elementaryOS
elementaryOS is already one of my favorite Linux distributions. It’s clean, simple to use, reliable, familiar, and pretty much everything anyone would ever need in an OS. However, the distribution could benefit from a premium version to elevate it to the next tier of user-friendliness. I’d pay for two things to be added to the desktop OS: Bottles/Wine, and Steam. Bottles would be used for older Windows apps, Wine for .exe installers, and Steam for games.
Also: Elementary OS vs. Linux Mint: I compared my once-favorite distro to the Windows alternative
The developers could ship a premium version with those three items installed and preconfigured, and elementaryOS would rise to the head of the class for the average user/gamer. Of course, for Steam, there would also need to be autodetection of GPUs for automatic driver installation.
2. Linux Mint
Linux Mint is one of the more widely used Linux distributions available. It’s popular, it’s easy, it’s rock solid, and it’s free. This is one of those distributions that challenges me to think about what could be added to make a premium version worth the money.
Also: Linux Mint vs. RefreshOS: The two best distros for new users
In the end, the answer is simple: support. Yes, Linux Mint has a massive community and plenty of information on how to use it. But given that Linux Mint is one of the most recommended distributions for new users, a premium version with support for installation and first steps could help a lot of people. That support could come in the form of access to chatbots or members-only forums, where highly skilled users are ready to help those new to the operating system.
Yes, there are companies that offer paid Linux support, but having support from Linux Mint itself would go a long way toward persuading new users to jump on board.
3. MainstreamOS
This one is interesting because MainstreamOS is so new. But I have an idea for MainstreamOS that could really be cool. You see, MainstreamOS uses the Hyprland window compositor, which offers a universe of customization. This desktop is so customizable that people spend hours, days, and weeks getting it just right. On top of that, Hyprland is just plain cool.
Now, imagine you have a premium option that offers support specifically for customizing the desktop. This support would help those who are new to Hyprland get started, or for those who are familiar with Hyprland get really fancy with their “ricing.”
Also: 5 of the easiest, quickest Linux distros to install – and I’ve tried them all
I know a lot of you are probably thinking, “But why?” Simply put, when you see Hyprland in action and discover how customizable it is, you realize that a desktop can not only be efficient, but a work of art.
4. Bazzite
Bazzite’s a tricky one because it has a specific goal (to simplify gaming on Linux), and it achieves that goal quite well. However, it could benefit from something that, on the surface, seems obvious. Bazzite ships with Steam preinstalled and ready to go. Open the app, log in, and download your games.
Also: This new Linux distro is a multimedia powerhouse right out of the box
Bazzite also enables playing Android games via Waydroid. However, if you want to go that route, you have to get it up and running on your own. Yes, Bazzite has a handy how-to for this, but why not offer an OS version specifically for Android games, with Waydroid preconfigured and ready to go? All users would have to do is log into the same Google account they use on their Android phone, and they’re good to go. Even better, Bazzite could add features like KDE Connect to add an extra level of Android usability. To top that off, Bazzite could develop a tool that would make syncing Android and Linux even easier.
Gasp!
Think of it. Bazzite could do for Android/Linux what Apple does for MacOS/iOS.
5. Ubuntu
Why on Earth would the most widely used Linux distribution need to offer a premium edition? After all, you can already use Ubuntu Pro for free (for up to five computers), so you get extended support.
Also: I found a free firewall GUI for KDE Plasma that’s way better than the default
But I can think of a few things a premium version could add: Ubuntu could offer certified OEM hardware support, such as 1-click driver and firmware installation, hybrid graphics tuning, and fingerprint readers. It could also add to the mix professional-grade media codecs such as Apple ProRes, Avid DNxHD/DNxHR, GoPro CineForm, Samsung APV, and camera RAW support for formats like Blackmagic RAW, Redcode RAW, and Apple ProRes RAW.
Also, Ubuntu could create editions specific for Android tablet hardware, with included stylus support and calibrators, and other creator-centric hardware.
With this, I could see Ubuntu becoming the Linux distribution for artists of all types.
