If you’re frustrated with Windows 11 and thinking about making a change, RefreshOS 2.5 (download here) might be exactly what you need. Built on Debian 12.11, this lightweight Linux distribution offers a fast, clean, and refreshingly modern desktop experience without drowning users in unnecessary features or complexity.
What makes RefreshOS different is its balanced approach. It avoids the raw minimalism of bare Debian installs while steering clear of the bloated mess that some other Linux distributions fall into. It boots quickly, looks polished, and works well out of the box, especially for users who are new to Linux. The Calamares installer makes setup easy, with a guided interface that doesn’t require any command-line knowledge.
One of the most immediate benefits is how little configuration is needed after install. Sudo works immediately, and the system defaults are smartly chosen. Power management, file permissions, and user access settings are pre-tuned so you can get started without needing to dive into system settings.
Under the hood, RefreshOS 2.5 brings wider hardware support thanks to expanded non-free firmware. That means better compatibility for things like Wi-Fi cards and graphics on Intel, AMD, and Realtek hardware. KDE Plasma has been customized with a clean theme, refined visuals, and a smoother splash screen for a more polished feel.
You won’t find Snap or Flatpak here, and that’s intentional. RefreshOS sticks with classic APT package management to keep things lean and predictable. Updates are straightforward, and there’s no confusing mix of containerized packages.
Even though it’s minimalist, you’re not left hanging. Out of the box, RefreshOS ships with key apps like LibreOffice, GIMP, and the Brave browser. So whether you’re writing, editing photos, or just browsing the web, the system is ready to go from the first boot.
If your current PC doesn’t meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11, or if you just don’t like the direction Microsoft has taken, this is a solid path forward. RefreshOS gives you control without the clutter, and it respects your time and hardware. It’s an ideal option for reviving an old laptop or daily driving on a modern desktop.
