Sparky Linux 8 also gives you plenty of browsers to pick from. I’d recommend it for both new and experienced users alike. Here’s why.
ZDNET’s key takeaways
Sparky Linux is a lightweight distribution based on Debian 13.
With Sparky Linux, you can install from over 20 desktops.
Sparky Linux is a great option, even for new Linux users.
Sparky Linux is well-known as a very good lightweight Linux distribution. Typically, Sparky defaults to the LXQt desktop, but offers versions with MATE, Xfce, and KDE Plasma. When I considered testing Sparky Linux, I considered what would be the best option for those who are new to Linux, but also want to benefit from a more lightweight distribution, so they can resurrect older hardware (such as those computers running Windows 10 that do not support Windows 11).
With that in mind, I decided to go the KDE Plasma route.
I like KDE Plasma. I find it’s the perfect desktop environment for those who are new to Linux, but also might want to be able to configure their desktop however they want (and without struggle). This is a bit of an odd combination, given that KDE Plasma isn’t exactly known for being a lightweight environment. That may be true, but KDE Plasma has proven itself to be quite capable, even with lesser system resources.
With the combination of Sparky and KDE Plasma, I was excited to see how it would work out… especially for someone new to Linux. I downloaded the Plasma edition of Sparky Linux 8 (which is based on Debian 13) and I wasn’t disappointed.A beautiful desktop
To be honest, I was expecting a rather uneventful, bland take on KDE Plasma, but found it to be rather appealing. Although it may not be tricked out like some other Plasma-based distributions, it’s not too shabby. The Sparky take on KDE Plasma offers a bit of transparency, a floating panel, and (to my relief) it defaults to a light theme (although it does ship with three variations of a dark theme).
