My top 5 favorite distros Jan 2018

[crosscourt]

Based on my needs, overall user experience, performance, ease of install/updating and hardware support.
>Distrowatch review rating included at far right<
1.MX Linux 17 (uses XFCE) 9.62
2.Ubuntu Mate 16.04.3 (Redmond interface) 9.45
3.Linux Mint 18.3 XFCE 8.76
4.Mageia 6 KDE 8.57
5.PCLinuxOS 2017/11 KDE 9.04

Special mention to wattOS R10(uses LXDE) with my older laptops. 7.42(only 12 reviews, previous version R9 rating 9.0)

[tlmiller]

For me, I think it would have to be:

1. Debian
2. Arch
3. Q4os
4. Fedora
5. GalliumOS

[crosscourt]

Fedora.... interesting, I would put Fedora in my top 10 along with Q4OS.

I use Debian derivatives but wouldnt put Debian in my top 10 distros. Arch just isnt my cup of tea, as honestly Id rather use Fedora(I use Korora actually).

My tastes change pretty quick from month to month as I try more distros and test them.

[crosscourt]

Heres the next 5 in my overall top 10, Distrowatch user rating to far right.
6.Q4OS 2.4 TDE 8.97
6.wattOS R10 LXDE 9.0
7.Linux Lite 3.8 XFCE 8.47
8.Peppermint 8 LXDE 8.83
9.Korora 26 Mate 8.89
10. Lubuntu 16.04.3 LXDE 8.97

[tlmiller]

Yeah, I wouldn't expect your tastes would run towards Arch. Me, preferring the "build it as you want it" approach, Debian and Arch appeal greatly to me. You, preferring more of a minimalist but fully functional install, not at all surprised that you're not a huge fan of Arch. Well, that and the installation is pure suck. Although I do cheat and use Anarchy to do the installations.

[crosscourt]

I actually like to install minimalist distros and then add in what I want, Bodhi and wattOS are like that as well as PCLOS KDE-mini.

My issue with Debian is at times they arent as up to date with some apps/ offerings of certain apps and features as other OS and I got tired of forcing the issue.MX Linux offers a good basic install and I go from there.
Arch I dont dislike, the install and community I hate.

I run Korora instead of Fedora so I dont have to add eveything I want that should have been there to start.