Step 2 · Install a distro
Choose a Distro and Desktop
Not sure what to install? Our pick for most people, and when to choose a different Linux distro or desktop in Andronix.
Andronix offers nine free distros and four desktops. If you're not sure, start with our pick; you can install another distro next to it later.
Our pick: Debian 13 with XFCE. It's stable, runs on every CPU type, and XFCE is quick and easy to use. Ubuntu 26.04 LTS with XFCE is just as good if you prefer Ubuntu or follow Ubuntu guides.
Choose a distro
| Pick | If you want |
|---|---|
| Debian 13 Recommended | A stable system that runs on any phone. |
| Ubuntu 26.04 LTS | Ubuntu, and the most apps and guides online. Supported until 2031. |
| Ubuntu 24.04 LTS | The previous Ubuntu LTS, for software that isn't ready for 26.04 yet. |
| Kali Linux | Security and penetration-testing tools (tools that need Wi-Fi or packet capture hardware won't work). |
| Fedora 44 | The newest software. 64-bit phones only. |
| Arch Linux | A rolling distro you build up yourself. |
| Manjaro ARM | Arch-based, with Manjaro's defaults. 64-bit phones only; sudo doesn't work in Andronix yet. |
| Alpine 3.24 | The smallest install. Uses musl, so some prebuilt apps (VS Code, Chrome) don't run. |
| Void Linux | An independent distro with its own package manager. |
Details for each (versions, CPUs, start scripts): Supported distros.
Choose a desktop
| Pick | If you want |
|---|---|
| XFCE Recommended | A complete, familiar desktop that stays quick. Available on every distro. |
| LXQt | A lighter desktop, good for phones with less RAM. Every distro. |
| MATE | A classic desktop with menus at the top. Every distro. |
| KDE Plasma | The most complete desktop. Needs 4 GB of RAM or more. Debian, Ubuntu 26.04 and Kali only. |
| Command line only | No desktop: the smallest, fastest install. You can add a desktop later. |
Screenshots of each: Desktops.
Changing your mind later
- Another distro: install it next to the first one. Each has its own start script.
- Another desktop: reinstall the distro with it, for example
andronix install debian --de lxqt --reinstall. This deletes the distro first, so back it up or copy your files to/sdcardbefore.
Install Termux
Which Termux to install for Andronix (F-Droid, GitHub or the new Google Play build), how to check the one you have, and how to replace the old Play version.
Install with the App
Step-by-step guide to installing a Linux distro like Ubuntu, Debian or Manjaro on Android with the Andronix app and Termux, no root required.