Shift OS is an Ubuntu LTS-based Linux distribution aimed at developers, creators, and gamers who want a streamlined desktop without unnecessary extras.
The project focuses on delivering a clean out-of-the-box experience with modern defaults, straightforward installation, and flexible software delivery options for everyday desktop use.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Uses pure, unmodified GNOME on Wayland by default.
- Targets roughly 700 MB of idle RAM usage.
- Includes a full live session so you can try the system before installing.
- Provides a Calamares graphical installer for quick deployment.
- Comes with Flatpak and Flathub configured out of the box.
- Retains compatibility with .deb packages and the APT package manager.
- Aims for privacy with no telemetry and no ads.
- Includes a custom GTK3 welcome app for onboarding and initial setup guidance.
| Working state: | Active |
| Desktop: | GNOME |
| Init Software: | systemd |
| Package Management: | APT |
| Release Model: | Fixed |
| Platforms: | x86_64 |
| Home Page: | sourceforge.net/projects/shift-os |
| Developer: | Kharis Destian Maulana |
| This article is part of our Big List of Active Linux Distributions. |
What's a Linux distribution ("distro")? |
| A distro provides the user with a desktop environment, preloaded applications, and ways to update and maintain the system. Each distro makes different choices, deciding which open source projects to install and provides custom written programs. They can have different philosophies. Some distros are intended for desktop computers, some for servers without a graphical interface, and others for special uses. Because Linux is an open source operating system, combinations of software vary between Linux distros. |