 Visitor Reviews |
Q4OS
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Reader supplied reviews for Q4OS
Average rating
8.6 from 144 review(s)
Version: 4.12
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-09-08
Votes: 13
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q402 is a very well developed system ,it has no flaws y have found no errors using it on modern computers , with plasma desktop ,its installation is very well developed with calamares installer , is a very stable debian distribution y use it also on 32bit very old machines of year 2000 aproximatelly and it works perfectly all the controllers functioning , with trinity desktop on old machines , so y reccomend it for a trouble free installation and a system which you can rely on , also the load on the system is very well manageable . A very well adjusted system , congratulations !!!
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Version: 5.5
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-08-17
Votes: 15
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I try a lot of distros and desktop environment until some years, . My favourite is the debian, ubuntu based ones with KDE, but the last 2 years i used Tumleweed. Almost everything works, but just almost. Some issues with update, wifi, and printer. I decided to chose other distro. I suffered a lot because always had something problem with printer, appearance settings, mounting usb, installing app, or working stremio. But i have given a chance Q4OS Plasma! Finally, it works!! Everything, i mean really everything what i need. Fine installation, settiings, even the Discover and the updates, printers, stremio, you can use flatpaks. It is fantastic, great thanks!!
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Version: 5.5
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-08-14
Votes: 17
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Q4OS is a really great operating system, I found it the best option to me. I like the stability and approach of Debian. It is available in two editions, Plasma and Trinity desktop. Plasma pose a better desktop to me, however Trinity has become an extraordinary, novel option. I like the Q4OS Lookswitcher styles idea, I can theme the desktop look in different ways, even in quite believable Windows styles. I prefer Q4OS over other Linux distributions because of the sober approach to keep Debian's proven base, so I can rely on Q4OS absolutely. Repositories of Q4OS offer plenty of applications, they consist of vanilla Debian repositories and some smaller Q4OS one. Live and installation media come with pre-defined set of applications, they are configured with basic and desktop options but the most magic is the ability to define own application set and apply it upon the OS installation. Q4OS also offers some other dedicated native tools they make user's life easier. Q4OS forum seems to be a great platform to get a user support with occasional periods of silence.
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Version: 4.12
Rating: 9
Date: 2024-08-11
Votes: 44
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Really like Q4OS, but the last two versions of Plasma have a bug in the screenlock. It will randomly Fail to show a box for the password when you attempt to wake the computer, and nothing seems to remedy it short of a hard reboot. Upgraded the memory to 16 GBs but it failed to solve the problem.
I finally decided to do the option of installing a second desktop, and that seems to have completely fixed the problem. I am delighted with the change and stability of Cinnamon. New life for Q4OS; it has become my daily driver!
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Version: 5.5
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-08-08
Votes: 15
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Very tired of Win11 and its # bugs (last updated, my touchpad not working). Ever heard of Linux but I don't what to become an engineer and I have no spare time to learn anything. After a lot of readings I installed Q4OS: perfect and totally working. How to? I don't know, I just chose what was on the screen!
Trinity desktop is very beautiful and anxiety-free. I like very much and the feeling is that you have always used and seen it. I used only Windows for many Years and my fear was to be lost in a Linux desktop. And you can use (when you like) even the plasma desktop (very beautiful but needs more memory).
For programs there are two systems for downloading (one with a simple click but another one is better to write a title as they are too numerous for a readable-in-a-minute list).
Q4OS chosen for Debian, excellent desktop (my first chose was Windows XP replica), fast and NO typical Win11 slowdown problems. Thank you very much and hope the best for Q4OS team!!
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Version: 5.5
Rating: 9
Date: 2024-07-31
Votes: 2
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compared to a few months ago I found it much improved (you can see the battery level for example). For those coming from windows, this distro is one of the best to take the first step, despite the limited availability of software (unless you go on synaptic which is a bit more difficult for a beginner). We are not at the level of AntiX for old PCs, but we are very close. Tested on an old eee pc 900 with 2gb of ram and a cpu, I think, of 900 mhz... it runs well. Maybe there should also be more clarity on which software is installed in the complete option.
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Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-06-18
Votes: 5
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For many years, I have been distro hopping, hoping that one day, I'll settle down to one particular distro. I do like the concept of a rolling release distro. Install once, and just do the upgrades. The only one that really had my interest was PCLINUXOS as a daily driver. However, I had an issue with that distro that prompted me to look elsewhere. That's where I found Q4OS on Distrowatch. It came with a windows installer. I wish more distros do that. I downloaded Q4OS and install it on my ancient laptop that still have Windows 7. I chose Trinity as my desktop, and after a bit of tweaking, was going good. Very happy with the stability. Yay! The issue that I had with PClinux was not there. Everything worked. I think I have found my daily driver. I even liked the 5 year support. Good-oh.
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Version: 4.12
Rating: 9
Date: 2024-06-05
Votes: 2
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You can install those many programs, I mean just the GUI based ones, most of them need either one of the most common GUIs like KDE, XFCE, GNOME, LXDE so in that moment you install such packet a depencency will be resolved and a compatible desktop engine will be installed, in case there is no native support for Trinity and wrapped around.
And at this point Q4OS is not the light distro as it could be with Trinity only without wrappers.
Native Trinity 10 stars, and also with multiple wrappers, extraordinary stable.
Hope they manage to find some companies that offer paid support in order to grow.
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Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-05-08
Votes: 9
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I first became involved with Mandrake Linux after Win 9x kept crashing for no good reason. Mandrake was stable, and the KDE 3x desktop was configurable, simple, and just worked. When KDE went to 4x and later, it lost me. The 'new and improved' GUI seemed to be all over the place, and it was back to Win for me.
The disaster that is Windows 11, along with MS's soon to be lack of support for 10, led me to Q4OS. It runs quite happily in a VirtualBox, and the Trinity desktop is exactly as I remember KDE 3.
I guess if you are looking for the latest and greatest bling, it might not work for you. For me? I'm making it the stop.
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Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-04-25
Votes: 9
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Q4os raises the bar in productivity for me. Snappy both in startup and use. What I look for in usefulness, this 5.4 release is my
"go to" OS to get things done and have a happy experience doing it.I run it on my Dell Optiplex 9020, which I purchased refurbished.
16 GB RAM, Intel Xeon E3-1200 v3/4th Gen Core Processor in the still reliable mini tower, doing heavy lifting and computing.
Feels like a mating of Windows 98 and 7, two quality releases by Microsoft. This version of Q4os is powered by Debian Bookworm
and constantly reminds me why I can't just drop Debian.Any Windows user who feels ready to embark on the plunge into Linux should try this, but shouldn't expect cute and fashionable.It can make one forget fancy bells and whistles in favor of solid performance. It's an OS designed to be loved. Many thanks to the developers for this project.If someone wanted to share a Windows computer with Linux
fo the firdst time, I would suggest Q4os. I have no reason not to put it on my Dell Inspiron 3910 (Windows 11) desktop, which already has Parrot 6 on a Seagate 1 TB ST1000DM010-2EP102 hard drive.
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Version: 5.4
Rating: 1
Date: 2024-03-11
Votes: 0
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Very, very, very disappointing. I tried Q4OS on three Thinkpad/Lenovo laptops and could not get it properly installed (as in able to boot) on any of the three. Two computers were 64 bit and both ran fine in live mode but both subsequently failed to boot when installed along side Window (aka installed as a Windows app) and both failed to boot as pure installs even though the installer indicted the installation was successful and I should remove the install media and reboot. Once again these ran fine in live mode.
I lo tried the 32 bit version on a 32 bit computer , only there is no 32 bit live mode for Q4OS. Once again Q4OS indicated the installation was successful and I should remove the install media and reboot. ll it did was blink on blank screen after getting past the Thinkpad splash screen.
Curious, I than installed the 32 bit onto a flashdrive and then attempted to boot it one the two 64 bit machines and it did the same thing, just blinked on an empty screen.
For comparison I also installed LMDE, antiX, Bodhi,, Crunchbang ++., Exe GNU on the same 3 machines uing 64 and 32 bit versions accordingly and they all worked.
Clearly the issue is with Q4OS and their support is of no help. A shame as I really like what I saw when running from live mode on 64 bit.
I don't mind a few glitches on old hardware but this is untenable given other Debian derivative are able to install and boot.
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Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-02-12
Votes: 8
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The Q4OS distribution stands out as the premier choice for users seeking to harness the power of the TDE Trinity desktop environment. Built upon the robust and mature Debian Linux, Q4OS boasts exceptional stability. Notably lightweight, it refrains from inundating users with superfluous software that may be extraneous to their requirements. However, it may prove less suitable for novice users, notwithstanding its straightforward installation process, as it is tailored towards more proficient users who appreciate the advantages of a traditional user interface within an operating system. In essence, Q4OS caters to those who harbor reservations regarding the design philosophy underpinning GNOME3/KDE[4-5-6], instead offering the functionality of the modernized KDE3.5 while adhering to contemporary standards. For individuals seeking this unique blend of heritage and innovation, Q4OS emerges as the quintessential distribution. Additionally, Q4OS presents users with the option of the KDE Plasma environment. However, the primary allure of Q4OS lies in its provision of the most optimized TDE experience that you can find today.
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Version: 5.4
Rating: 1
Date: 2024-02-06
Votes: 1
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I have tried to install Q4OS on 3 different PCs. and could not get it "run" any of the three laptops I tried it on, despite success in Live mode.. On the other hand Zorin, FatDog, FossaPup, Mint Cinnamon, Zorin-Lite, Linux Lite, Mint Xfce, Mint LMDE,MX-Linux, Mx-Linux Fluxbox, Bodhi, antiX, Debian LXLE, Debian XFCE all worked in live mode AND installed without issue. I tried to get help in the Q4OS forum but week passed with no response. Just sad, Q4OS appears to have a poor installer and be a distro with poor support.
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Version: 5.4
Rating: 7
Date: 2024-01-14
Votes: 2
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Ein feines Betriebssystem, um alte Hardware weiterverwenden zu können und vor dem Schrottplatz zu bewahren. Leider ist es das auch schon, auf einem mordernen Arbeits- und Produktivsystem würde ich nicht verwenden
Ich habe es auf einem alten Eee-PC mit 32-Bit Atom-Prozessor und 1 GB Arbeitsspeicher installiert, den ich ausschliesslich fürs Online-Banking nutze. Da läuft es absolut stabil und flüssig ohne Ruckler und Hänger.
A fine operating system to be able to continue using old hardware and save it from the scrap heap. Unfortunately, that's all it is, I wouldn't use it on a modern work and production system
I have installed it on an old Eee PC with a 32-bit Atom processor and 1 GB of RAM, which I use exclusively for online banking. It runs absolutely stable and smoothly without any stutters or hangs.
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Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-12-25
Votes: 45
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Ich nutze Q4OS (Trinity i386) in VirtualBox ausschließlich für online banking. Basis ist ein TUXEDO InfinityBook mit Tuxedo2 OS.
Keine Email, kein Surfen, keine andere Webseite - nur die der Bank. Firefox löscht beim Beenden alle Spuren, Cookies etc.
Ich denke das Vorgehen sollte relativ sicher sein und nach langen Suchen ist Q4OS für mich das beste Betriebssystem dafür. Aussehen und Einstellbarkeit sind zweitrangig, dafür habe ich ja das Grundsystem.
Also volle Punktzahl für mich
I use Q4OS (Trinity i386) in VirtualBox exclusively for online banking. The basis is a TUXEDO InfinityBook with Tuxedo2 OS.
No email, no surfing, no other website - only the bank's website. Firefox deletes all traces, cookies etc. when closing.
I think the procedure should be relatively safe and after a long search, Q4OS is the best operating system for me. Appearance and adjustability are secondary, that's why I have the basic system.
So full marks for me
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Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-12-21
Votes: 18
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A Lean, Mean, Customization Machine
For users who crave a lightning-fast and rock-solid desktop experience, Q4OS stands out as a shining champion. Unlike bloated distros overflowing with pre-installed fluff, Q4OS takes a refreshingly minimalist approach. It starts with a lean core, armed with powerful tools to craft a system perfectly tailored to your needs. This philosophy delivers astonishing results.
Q4OS boasts exceptional performance. Even on aging hardware, it breathes life into sluggish machines, transforming them into nimble workhorses. This magic stems from its efficient design, ensuring resources are laser-focused on your tasks, not unnecessary processes. Say goodbye to lag and hello to smooth sailing!
Furthermore, Q4OS prioritizes stability. Built on the rock-solid foundation of Debian, it runs like a dream, rarely faltering or needing intervention. You can install it today and rely on it for years to come, receiving regular security updates that keep your system safe and sound.
Yet, Q4OS doesn't sacrifice usability for speed. Its user interface, with the choice between the classic Trinity and modern KDE Plasma, is intuitive and user-friendly. The built-in tools empower customization like no other. You can easily trim the system to its bare essentials, adding only the applications you truly need. This empowers you to create a desktop that feels truly yours, perfectly optimized for your unique workflow.
While the community might not be the largest, it's passionate and helpful. You'll find extensive documentation and resources to guide your journey, and the friendly community is always ready to lend a hand.
In conclusion, Q4OS is not just a Linux distribution; it's an experience. It's for users who value efficiency, stability, and control. If you're tired of bloated systems and yearn for a lean, mean, customization machine, Q4OS awaits. Give it a spin, and experience the magic of a truly personalized desktop.
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Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-12-08
Votes: 10
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I have tried numerous OS installations for my old 32bit HP laptop. This downloads quickly, installs without problem or complicated issues. When running on my laptop it is fast, responsive and ideal for typing, surfing the internet and email. It also worked great on my lenovo thinkpads. It is very intuitive at every stage and the whole OS just forms a nice logical unit. One can choose KDE, but I have found the Trinity desktop environment very light and easy, so I just stick to it. There are also some small look changes one can make that is rather nice.
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Version: 5.4
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-12-05
Votes: 4
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excellent distro, light and powerful, i installed 5.4 trinity/acquarius 32 bit on my 2004 packard bell laptop...installed midori as browser and everything ok....did not get working stuff using 7/XP or lubuntu/xubuntu/puppy and still q4os supplies 32 bit support and in any case underneath there is all the power and solidity of Debian
just a small problem with the wifi configuration that I had to do from terminal
i upgraded from 3.13 which i installed years ago and still runs smoothly and seems much improved to me
good work!
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Version: 5.3
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-11-10
Votes: 14
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My device:
Dell Inspirion 9400, a top of the line heavy laptop computer called a ¨desktop replacement¨, because it is very solidly built and it is very heavy.
Intel Core2 Duo (August 2006)
Designed for Windows XP + ¨Windows Vista Capable¨:)
The computer was manufactured in January 2007, so it is almost 17 years old.
I switched from XP to Lubuntu 32 bit in 2018, but that is because I assumed it was 32 bit, when it was in fact a 64 bit.
It was running slow with Lubuntu 32 bit, but it was very stable, and I used it as a daily driver for at least two years.
When Lubuntu stopped 32 bit support, I loaded Linux Lite, which worked beautifully.
Because the graphics could not work with what I needed to do for my job, I had to retire it.
I finally decided I would try and rescue it and see if I might try another distribution.
I plan to use it as my living room music computer.
I tried to install latest version of Linux Lite, because when I tried an update of Linux Lite after having stored the laptop for a year, it did not want to update. Linux Lite installation froze several times despite me trying various ways to get it to ¨learn¨ and ¨unfreeze¨ itself.
I put Bodhi in it, and it would not even get off the ground.
I tried Q4OS, and behold, it works.
I am giving it a 9, not because it is so wonderful, but because if I give it an 8, it will be akin to Linux Lite, but Linux Lite no longer works with it, and I cannot rate it lower than Bodhi, since Bodhi did not work.
So 9 it is:)
I have been using Linux as my daily driver since 2009, so I guess I am no longer a newbie:)
I only use Windows or Apple if it is forced upon me by someone else.
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Version: 5.3
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-11-06
Votes: 8
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I installed Q4OS on my 32 bit old desktop with only 2 GB ram and it is running very well. it automatically detected my epson printer and scanner I am using latest chromium browser on it and my web browsing experience is quiet good my browser is running very fast and web page download speed is also very good. Q4OS linux is very fast and intelligent linux distros. I tested many other linux distros but I wanted such distro that is minimal,fast and stable. I had only one problem with it that when I installed it with windows on dual boot system my grub menu showed me two choices to boot from either windows or Q4OS but after upgrade when I restarted my system I was offered no choice to boot from and directly booted into Q4OS. overall I am enjoying Q4OS ...
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Version: 5.3
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-10-22
Votes: 61
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The only Linux distribution to work flawlessly on my Alienware laptop, M15R7. All other distros (including plain Debian) caused my computer to lock up after installing the priority Nvidia drivers for the RTX-3070 graphics card.
The open-source, nonpriority drivers worked fine on most distros. Nobara was the second longest-lasting with the priority drivers, lasting a few weeks before it went to a black screen and wouldn’t boot up. Ubuntu lasted a few days. I tried almost every distro in the top 100 on Distrowatch, but I couldn't get anything else to work.
Normally, Debian or openSUSE are exceptional, just not with my current laptop. If you have compatibility issues, especially with a Nvidia graphics card, I'd recommend checking out Q4OS.
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-09-26
Votes: 16
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This distro should be among the top three right behind(even with)MX linux. Very ingenious implementation of Debian and KDE, Stable fast not overly polished so it gets up and goes quick. It is also hard to break, as I have installed on family members & friends, who are newbies and it stands up and takes a licking and keeps on ticking. I also use this distro as a rescue OS which it does really well also, another good use is as a music storage/player which it does very well. I did not give it a ten because I believe there is no such thing as a 10, as that would be perfect and no distros are perfect, but Q4OS is close. Thank you devs.
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 5
Date: 2023-09-21
Votes: 5
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Ran with TDE.
DIstro seems good at first. Easy and fast install.
Love the interface. It's a shame other distros try to be "modern" (i.e. ugly and flat... did I mention ugly?).
The system seems pretty fast, although, granted, my computer is still relatively beefy despite its age.
My good experiences end here.
Upon booting up I am told that the system can automatically install NVIDIA drivers for me. Okay! Let's do it. I restart and... the system is broken and will no longer boot. I have to reinstall. Okay. This happens the next time... and the next time after that. So, I just went with the preinstalled driver. Some things lag because of that, but at least I can use the computer.
The system experiences screen tearing, and I'm not sure how to fix that. Oh, well.
I try to find a Youtube downloader in Synaptic package manager. The first one does not work at all. I mark it for a complete removal and move on to youtube-dl. I use it in the terminal and... it doesn't work. So I close the terminal and look online for what to do. I open the terminal again and try to use Youtube-dl. The command is not found anymore... what?
Last but not least, I'm usually not one to cry, "Bloat!" but this distro has plenty of unnecessary inclusions. Why are there THREE file managers? One shortcut opens up Dolphin, another opens up Konqueror. And if you search for "file manager" in the menu, there comes up Krusader alongside the other two! Which one am I supposed to use???
This distro has great potential, but there's a lot of fixing to do before it's usable.
P.S. I also tried the installation alongside Windows 10, and it didn't work.
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 6
Date: 2023-09-15
Votes: 5
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Ran Q4OS in live mode and really loved it. Q4OS is a Linux distro that is easy for old Windows users (Win7, Win8 WinXP etc) to migrate to. The added bonus is Q4OS is light on resources and breathes new life into old computers.
I was so impressed after trying Q4OS in Live mode I went to install it and things quickly went south. Simply put the install completed successfully but Q4OS was not able to come up and no assistance was forth coming from the support forum even after many weeks. if you look at the forum you will see many issues not only remain unsolved but never replied to at all,
So if you are a desktop user you are apparently on your own with Q4OS. That is a shame but the large number of posts in the Q4OS support forum that are not replied to tell the tale. So the functioning distro is a 9, but the support is a 3 which averages to a 6.
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-09-13
Votes: 2
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Good Distro!
It's the best Distro that i've ever Seen!
I've installed in Virtual Box and find it good, so i've installed on an old Toshiba Satellite with Windows 2000 as factory os, And it was running fast on 512mb ram!
After that, i've installed it on my Packard Bell dot s and Loved it! This old Netbook is running very fast and finally i can use it AS my daily Driver! Than i've translated it to my language in GitHub, and the pull-request was merged in 10 minutes! It's based in Debian bookworm, and installs very fast.
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 5
Date: 2023-09-05
Votes: 5
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Summary:
Q4OS hits the mark in so many ways. For those who are fortunate to get a clean install and boot it likely is a wonderful distro. Where Q4OSfalls down is on the support side. Unfortunately not all installs go cleanly and then the hit or miss attitude to support becomes an issue. And while lack of support is one thing, unwarranted snarky support is another. However you can purchase support, which likely will use a more forgiving tone and therefore Q4OS may be a viable option for an office environment.
Pros:
A solid distro that mostly does exactly what it says
Light weight
Easy transition for Windows users
Cons:
Latest release uses significantly more RAM than previous versions for no discernible benefit
Buggy Windows co-existence installation
Unwarranted arrogant to rude responses by developers to users on occasion in the forum
Free support is inferior to other distros in its class
Many requests for help in the forum go unanswered
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-09-04
Votes: 2
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I used to run Q4OS on a fairly old Dell computer, but when I bought a new Dell it came with Windows 11. However are sticking wth W.11 for some time, I became more and more frustrated by its file system etc etc. So I decided I'd go back to Linux. I tried the latest versions of Q4OS and MInt Cinnamon on my old machine and decided I preferred Q4OS.
I did not want to dual boot, and to my amazement, Q4OS installed without any problems overwriting Windows 11, set-up its own Grub, and now I am booting straight into it.
It runs faster than on my old Dell, and so far everything runs without any problems. The only problem I have is that I did not remove secure boot, and discovered that it will not do a Dell System Update. However when I remove Secure boot from the bios, that will slove the problem.
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-09-02
Votes: 3
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As a curious distro hopper for over 12 years, I've found Q4OS 5.2 Plasma edition a pleasant surprise.
Installation was a breeze, and once tweaked to my liking, works like a charm on a 15 year Core2 laptop.
I would recommend installing Discover, Synaptic and the Q4OS updater first.
Chromium was substituted for the Debian Firefox ESR branch and everything is sweet.
Some nice plasmoid effects ship as standard with many more available to suit you preference.
There is much more easily accessible control available without delving deep into the OS like Win10 or 11
To sum up: A solid OS with plenty of room for eyecandy (xsession error log shows nothing after two weeks of use)
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Version: 4.12
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-08-12
Votes: 13
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I absolutely love it. I set mine up to look/feel like a XP/WIN7 hybrid and I've actually had people ask what version of Windows that was !
You choose when to update, and they always work. No need to restart or reinstall anything. The system just works.
I've got it running on an older MacBook Pro and my Mac Pro 5,1 from 2010 (!). Couldn't possibly feel more secure doing financial stuff.
Because of the file system, it's perfectly capable of running on the same hard disk as a regular Windows install - but this system is both faster *and* more reliable.
Only thing I would change is the ability to arrange the start menu, which is modifiable but somewhat limited... this is a rather minor criticism given the overall safety, stability and functionality of the OS.
I would recommend it to anyone. Anyone.
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 5
Date: 2023-08-09
Votes: 1
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The Plasma version is okay, I guess, but I don't use Plasma because in my experience it's too buggy. I messed around with it here, and it didn't give me any issues, but also this is one of the most barebones and basic Plasma setups. And even at the Full Desktop profile, it still comes with very few apps. This is good for some people, but not for me. I think, if Q4OS only had the Plasma edition, it would be a very boring distro, not worth a look.
So I'll talk about the TDE (Trinity Desktop Environment) version here. First of all, let me say this: for my money this is the prettiest-looking desktop out there. Primarily because this is the last desktop that comes shipped with some professionally-made skeuomorphic themes from the early 2000s, the time before everything became flat and soulless. And the Q4OS team has put an incredible amount of work into this edition. The control panel, the themes, the applets, everything is pre-configured to deliver a desktop that work as well, if not better than many modern desktops.
However, I was immediately able to spot a few issues. But before I get to them, let me say something about the installation. I hate it. At first I got happy seeing how the ISO is only about 1GB in size. But my happiness flew out the window when I realized that the distro is gonna be downloading another 1-2 gigs of content DURING the installation. With my slow and unreliable internet I'd much rather risk failing the download of the ISO than failing the installation. This is much less safe in my opinion.
After installing the distro, first thing I tried to do is download a MEGASync deb file and install it. The system tried opening it with Ark instead. After spending about half an hour trying to figure it out and googling, I found out that this system lacks a GDebi Installer, and that the issue about this was raised in 2019 on the forums, and yet here we are in 2023 and it still hasn't been addressed. I'm sorry, but I consider stuff like this essential, and it's ridiculous to me that it's not pre-installed.
Next thing I realized was that you can't drag files into the Trash, whether on the desktop or on the panel. It says "Access Denied". Turns out the icons on the desktop (which also get automatically created as you install new software) are Global Icons, which cannot be dragged or renamed for some reason, but can be deleted.
Another problem I noticed is there doesn't seem to be any Bluetooth app pre-installed. I get that this and the previous problem are kinda to be expected with a retro-style distro like this, but they make it really hard to recommend for a general use.
Like, it's fun to poke around in for nostalgia, but I don't see how it can compete with most distros out there.
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-07-24
Votes: 5
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I want to offer my suggestion on dual-boot with Q4OS. I installed Q4OS KDE desktop on a 128GB USB SanDisk drive. I booted the Q4OS USB drive on a HP Intel Core I3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, WiFi, and Windows 11 in S mode OS laptop. After login, I ran "sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y". I rebooted and GRUB showed both OS in the boot menu. Of course, Q4OS was listed first and Windows 11 second. It booed both OSes from the GRUB menu. I removed the Q4OS USB key from the laptop, and Windows 11 booted as normal.
It is true Q4OS wants to be exclusive! This solution avoids a separate partition on the SSD. Plus you can use the Q4OS USB Drive on any computer, just make sure you do the updates from the computer listed in GRUB. This solution may not be for everyone, but it is an alternative for me.
I loved the Q4OS KDE Plasma desktop. It appears to be fast and stable on old and new computes.Try it, you may like it too!
Q4OS KDE Desktop User
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 6
Date: 2023-07-20
Votes: 3
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Have used q4os since version 3.xx on my main desktop computer, in a dual boot setup. It always performed perfectly! This latest version of 5.2 is a real Prima Dona, however. It is based on Debian Bookworm 12. so has smoothed out some previous rough edges - that is commendable. It also runs very quickly on my 10 year old laptops. I am quite impressed with the improvements to KDE as well.
Now I said it was a Prima Dona, and by that I mean this version doesn't play nicely with other boot scenarios. Oh, it will install alongside whatever OS you have, but then when you reboot the machine, the only option is Q4OS 5.2! Can I fix the boot manager? - Sure! But then, why should that be necessary for such an OS? All the other popular distros play fairly - Linux Mint, Ubuntu, Debian, Peppermint, and so on. Guess for now will have to regard this Q4os bug as a feature.
So, If you are ready to use Q4os exclusively, or want to tinker with it to work with other distros, I say it is a great choice. If not, I would look at some others first.
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 8
Date: 2023-07-16
Votes: 3
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My new OS ! Once we got the 'feel' of a different OS, Q4 quickly became my new 'favorite'.
Difficult ? NO is the best answer.
The desktop was easily customized. Its magic how Q4 folks assumed all my favorite & correct settings !
The KDE software ? had to be learned the hard way.
Favorites - Konsole, Kate, Kfind, Ksnip are just one-click away on the tool-bar.
Other one-click favorites include Thunar, AbiWord, SMplayer, XNview, Falkon browser.
The Windows-button shows Software Discover, and System Settings ,,,, thats it !
The complete application menu is rarely used.
Performance issues ? none.
This is a 16GB APPLE 27" iMAC. Most everything is one-blink away !
This new Debian seems to 'pause' while shuffling many files with Thunar. Not noticed with other apps.
I have removed 'linked-library-shortcuts' and the problem seems abated.
Library-shortcuts allow multi-partitions to 'appear' as local-librarys. I call it "mirror-magic" (its not real) !
Problems ? Only 1.... once.
The VLC video player auto-magically decides to shift to FULL-BLACK-SCREEN,
Lost keyboard & mouse. Power-OFF works. Re-boot & remove VLC.
Cause ? APPLE iMAC video processors are NOT all the same. Tough luck.
The same version VLC runs fine on my other old iMAC.
Futures ? Q4 is already an 8 !
Currently toying with KDE Konnect on a cellphone & the iMAC.
Konnect integrates many phone functions with Q4 using WiFi (no USB fumbling needed).
I hope to step # 1-fone-foto, 2-voice-to-text the foto info, 3-xfer the foto & text to Q4, 4-SQL text into foto-base.
Can we get up to 9 ? I think so. If Q4os stripped away MOST all user-applications, like players, browsers, offices, games, converters, utilitys, etc, etc, leaving just Discover, think of the time spent getting rid of 'stuff' I'll never use.
The best way to play ! Good game guys !
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-07-15
Votes: 3
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I have installed Q4OS version 5, 2 on a 12 year old laptop with 2 x 2GHZ Intel Celeron CPUs, 4GB RAM, 500MB hard disk, Ethernet and WI-fi interface. I have installed the KDE Plasma desktop with Darktable, IDLE3, and Xboard. Despite the increase in RAM usage, Q4OS 5.2 seems to run faster and more stable than previous versions of Q4OS.I am using Q4OS 5.2 as a daily driver for this old laptop.
I am happy with the performance and love the KDE desktop. The one factor that sold me is the fact that this is a Debian Stable Linux distribution. I have tried Arch and Fedora, but this laptop configuration seems to love Debian, who am I to say no to this relationship:-)
Thank you Q4OS!
Happy Q4OS 5.2 Linux User
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 8
Date: 2023-07-10
Votes: 2
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I just reviewed the 4.12 version on 2023-06-14 and gave it a 10. Sadly with the release of 5.2 we find as more RAM hungry distro that is noticeably slower. I ave no idea what that is about but it went from 296 MB RAM at idle to 547 MB at idle for the Trinity desktop.
At that weight you should also look at Komander which weighs in at 485 MB RAM running XFCE and is essentially a Windows 7 knockoff that comes fully loaded out of te box and is very fast.
QNOS is a great distro but it just ate some RAM for no discernible benefit.
tfb
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Version: 5.2
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-07-08
Votes: 5
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Absolutely stunning.
This is the best Linux OS I have tested so far. It is fast and is stunning!
It has everything that you will ever need and has a theme switcher that has all the Windows desktops you could ever want.
Furthermore, it lacks nothing that Windows has and if you want to install any software it is self extracting which is a dream to a Windows user.
Very happy with this version, everything looks modern and simply works.
I will be making a donation as this is a level above the rest.
Brilliant work guys.
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Version: 4.12
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-06-25
Votes: 3
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Great distro for old PCs and conservative users.
I'm using it on my old PC, where were before Windows 7 and Vista, with TDE, which is using about 200MB RAM from 4GB in iddle. KDE Plasma is working well on this distro, too, no bugs and bloatware, so it's using about 500-600MB RAM with gadgets on desktop (I'm using only clocks, calendar and CPU/RAM usage bar).
About installation:
The Q4OS is using graphics installer, if you have live version or installation version with KDE Plasma, the Trinity installation version is using good old interface, which was used in older versions of Debian (some editions are using in nowadays) and in Ubuntu 4.10
About Trinity:
HW requirements are quite similar to Windows XP requirements, so 20 years PC will be running on this distro great. Interface is similar to this system, too, because it's based on KDE 3.5, which was released in 2005 and KDE is looking similar to Windows interface. But what has Q4OS comparing with other distros with TDE is XP menu style and installer setup, which is very similar to installer setup in Windows. It would be great, if this installer setup could be used for every .DEB package, not only for few apps, which are listed in special program.
Only thing, which is missing in Q4OS, is GUI installer for packages, so you need to install it if you don't use terminal for packages installation. The second one is gamemode preinstalled, but it's small detail and this is not gaming distro.
Result:
It's great OS for every user, especially for users using old machines and conservative users, who are prefer truly PC interface than PC/tablet remix with big buttons, which is used by most newer DEs.
Based on Debian is good choise for 32-bit support.
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Version: 5.0-testing
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-06-14
Votes: 8
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Wow, I installed Q4OS with the Trinty desktop and I am stunned. If you are looking to breathe new life into old hardware this is it. I was looking for an alternative to the detestable antiX and came across Bodhi and Q4OS, both excellent choices for older hardware.
At idle with wifi connectivity free -m indicated it came in at 293 MB (as a Live key) so knock off a few MB if you install it.
While Bodhi has a more modern elegant looking desktop Q4OS seems positioned more like a throwback to the stable and practical days of Windows 95, Windows NT and Windows XP, and that is meant as a compliment. For those of us who do not like the modern trend of forcing our PC and laptop desktops to mimic smartphones Q4OS is a comforting environment that was designed for days when the workstation was king, not some real estate restricted scrolling mess that modern desktops have become.
But appearances aside Q4OS has some great utility features like its profiler, that is useful, functional, and customizable. Q4OS also has some tricks up its sleeve to install on Windows that other distros should consider.
All that aside it is fast. I tested this on a IBM Thinkpad T61p from 2007 with 2 GB of RAM. Yep on a 16 year old machine and Q4OS was fast, no problem with YouTube running Chromium.
Q4OS also has utilities to tweak its themes etc that is easy to apply.
So if you like the productivity of desktops of the past and blinding speed in a low resource environment in a stable environment try Q4OS. If you like a more elegant look and feel try Bodhi. Even lighter, checkout SliTaz, but Q4OS is slick,someone but a lot of effort into a distro that should be better known.
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Version: 4.12
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-05-26
Votes: 9
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This distro is exactly what I have been looking for(MX stable quality KDE with more speed). I have to give 9 out of ten because no distro is perfect, but this is great like MX or mint but faster and more responsive. I am in the process of putting Q4OS on all my older computers, while I have MX or Mint on the newer computers. Its intuitive KDE with almost the responsiveness of Artix, and it is a kick. The only very slight downside is I wish the repo were bigger, this distro is fun and right there with MX and Mint for quality.
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Version: 5.0-testing
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-05-17
Votes: 8
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I stumbled upon this distro about a year and a half ago, just distro hopping. I migrated from KDE Neon, mainly because it updates like 5 times a day, was annoying. Q4OS simply works, is light on system resources, and I have yet to have a crash on it in the 1 1/2 years I have been using it. Detected all my hardware with no problems as well too. Am using a Lenovo laptop with a core I3 processor and 4 gigs of ram, and it runs super fast. This is the first review I have written on a distro, and that is saying something! It is definitely worth a try!
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Version: 5.0-testing
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-04-04
Votes: 11
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This newer testing release is running very well on my pc.
It's like a stable lighter version of some of the more bloated Plasma releases that are available atmo.
Installs ok apart from some grub issues but i fixed that from within my other Linux i had installed.
I think the problem might have been down to having too many new and old leftovers from previous OS installs.
Anyway ,i had the desktop up and running pretty quick ,doesn't come with too much installed which i think is a plus point.
Though it does have the same useful Welcome Screen with easy click options for installing extra software and drivers ,e.t.c.
I did run into a problem trying to install the offered Nvidia drivers but devs said they will be fixing that soon.
Well ,it is a testing release so things like that are to be expected.
Overall a great OS and now my daily driver ,will be looking forward to future improvements .
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Version: 4.11
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-03-23
Votes: 13
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I have tried many smaller distros for my old laptops. This is the only one that installed correctly and easily and that I have managed to update on both 32bit and 64bit machines. I just use it as is and it has been stable the entire time. It also works well with my HP printer. I use it on an old 32bit HP computer and Lenovo laptops. I like it's trinity desktop and with the look changer one is able to have a fresh look. I like things simple and working. For my purposes I give it ten out of ten. Love it, love it, love it!
NV
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Version: 4.11
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-03-06
Votes: 11
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Q4OS is a rather interesting Debian derivative which puts little strain on hardware and can function equally well at an introductory level for most newbies or for more complicated use for experienced Linux users and can work with both ARM and X86 form factor processors. I have used it on big desktops and on an old laptop long ago with no major issues. Its Trinity desktop is a bit tired looking, but it does work and in a KDE Plasma form it has a crisper look at the expense of a bit more processor power, but still works nicely.
I will give a somewhat lengthy example of the distribution's utility here:
I recently got a very good buy on an Alldocube Tablet PC which I did not expect to use with Windows and I rapidly ran into problems trying to load it with Linux software of unexpected forms. The tablet has a nice look and size and can support itself with its own built in support which is not dependent on the detachable keyboard using the Pogo interface. I was hoping to make this into a workable Linux tablet and tried some smaller form distributions or distribution-like settings. Puppy could function byt was awkward and not terribly efficient on the unit if loaded. Touchscreen function was inconsistent. In the near-distribution form, AntiX was unable to establish a wireless connection and had no audio and could not really move beyond an Ethernet connection. Fedora was tried in a stripped-down version with audio only with headphones and at low volume and had problems with not being able to be updated despite easy wireless setup that made the AntiX setup look pathetic.
Manjaro XFCE was tried next and gave horrid flickering of the Intel UHDgraphics630 card which was negotiated poorly in AntiX and well in Fedora. While flickering, I could guess a location and the touchscreen would mostly respond where the screen was blacked out rather bizarrely. I managed to push the work on this with no resolution and no good sound and poor wireless function thought better than with AntiX.
Bunsen would not load well either with flickering of the screen and no sound and the camera was a no go as well.
After this comes Q4OS as I am not a big Ubuntu fan and did not want to play with Lite or with Lubuntu with its formidable content.
Q4OS was not really known much for use in tablets that I could see, but it was reliable Debian and Debian has played better with Intel UHD graphics600 series so I gave it a try. Q4OS loaded easily and fairly quickly, picked up the graphics as well as the wireless and even had the camera function picked up. Touchscreen was no problem either. The installation was the least problematic, though audio remains an issue. No function can be found of the Realtek/Intel series which is recognized but not easily teased forward despite the use of Alsamixer and Pipewire. I have not tried to back up to OSS or other audio drivers. Use of DKMS has not made any difference either. I hope that firmware update or Kernel incorporated updates can bring the audio functionality to some end, but I can always add on a USB audio card system. Perhaps I can use a small headset unit such as Plugable for headphone port action using the snd-usb-audio driver which I have used before or the similar UGreen interface. Both have worked reliably for others I have known with Linux or even with less sophisticated Raspberry Pi computers.
With Q4OS, the poor support of this PC tablet has been relatively easy to manage.
I find Q4OS has reasonable function from its KDE Plasma base and the substantial 8 GB RAM of the PC Tablet should be able to work fairly nicely as a tablet with good power, even with the large KDE footprint. Q4OS has been by far the easiest distribution for this purpose.
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Version: 4.11
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-03-05
Votes: 6
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Perfect for an old laptop, even touchpad gestures run out of the box, a feature never before seen and I have tried more than 20 distros.
Trinity desktop looks very tidy, might be my 2nd favourite after XFCE.
Integration of Konqueror with many other apps is interesting, but I'm leaning to not using it too much.
Only downside is that bootloader install is more confusing than usual.
I probably wouldn't install this OS on modern machine, but on old hardware I haven't seen better and trust me, I have tried many distros.
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Version: 4.11
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-02-22
Votes: 3
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It was recommended to me by a forum member. At first, though, I picked the 64-bit edition with KDE. It starts blinding fast. I don't know what the developers did to the D.E. but this is a pleasant surprise. It looks a bit plaid compared to the later Plasmas but I don't care, I dislike animations and desire quick fast over shenanigans. No problems installing Wine and using other programs. I wish I could write more about it but it's boring in a good way. One hitch is that it shuts down somewhat slowly; soon after I click "OK" on shutdown confirmation it holds for several seconds. On this installation I skipped the Desktop Profiler, couldn't be arsed with it to give me junk like Libreoffice and VLC while there are much-better programs.
Later I decided to take up on that forum member's offer, grabbing the ISO for the 32-bit operating system with Trinity. (It has to be installed and uses a version of Debian installer.) It doesn't ask for network options but that is handled in the first time the user boots successfully into the system. This OS supports Wifi which is a big plus. Nice desktop; my first try with it was supposed to be RebornOS 64-bit but I had installation problems with that. A reason why I didn't want to keep it was because it seems to use Konqueror as file manager, but I'm not used to it. It behaves a lot like Windows98, the desktop menu also. On Trinity desktop I couldn't find the way to disable touchpad tap-to-click (doesn't seem to carry "synclient" program) and it was clunky having to visit the terminal to run "xrandr" only to lower the screen brightness from full burst. I don't recommend going to "System Administration/Monitor Settings" because it asks for the user password before setting anything in there, and if you do it wrong in the "gamma" screen it could totally screw up the view! Therefore I accepted the Desktop Profiler option to move up to KDE Plasma v5.20. However it could take at least an hour and copies over 120 thousand files into your disk!
Running "update-initramfs" takes a really long time and the "distro update" could do it three times or more. Just don't fiddle with "swap" partition, you have been warned, it's not like with Arch Linux where if the UUID of "swap" is changed it only requires editing "/etc/fstab". I wish Debian's developers did something about it.
For the 32-bit installation, if Q4OS isn't going to be the only OS put on the internal HDD do not pick "guided entire disk" partitioning from the installer because it creates only two partitions, the main one and "swap" which might be too small, and it would require assistance from GRUB for another distro to be able to boot into it. For me the install failed at bootloader stage; at this point the user should select "Continue without bootloader" from Debian installer main menu. Someone else would have deducted points for it.
by mnrv-ovrf-year-c
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Version: 4.11
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-02-14
Votes: 11
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Previously I tested Q4OS within the Parallels virtualization environment on an iMac, and it ran beautifully. A more interesting test came when I installed it using the Q4OS “Windows installer” on a $300 Fujitsu laptop (Fujitsu A3510).
I was skeptical – but it works like a dream. Everything works as promised. I have Q4OS (with the Cinnamon desktop environment installed afterwards) running in its own 48 GB virtual partition (let’s call it that: a virtual partition) but have full access to the Windows section of the SSD drive. Bluetooth, WiFi, everything worked immediately.
This is wonderful. This OS will remain on this computer!
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Version: 4.11
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-02-04
Votes: 8
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Awesome, I use 32 bit and 64 bit version. Q4OS 32 bit on an old Dell Optiplex GX260 functionality absolutely top, 64 bit version on several old PCs. flexible and easy to find the functionality of the operating system and stable as a mountain. the websites of Q4OS there is a lot of information and you will find what you are wondering about, I think Q4OS is the best and I recommend this distro, awesome (Best simple and nice looking alternative to Windows XP/7/8/10/11)
Q4OS and Linux in general are good for the most of our computers keep on working.
Norton.
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Version: 4.11
Rating: 1
Date: 2023-01-10
Votes: 3
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Disappointing and frustrating experience especially after reading many good reviews. I was unable to install the live ISO on bare metal. Tried downloading the ISO (from several of their download links) and flashing it to two different flash drive I verified are not faulty. Used Balena Etcher to flash ISO to thumb drive. Each time the OS tried to load it got stuck on the black screen with the boot text. It would start to load and then just hang. Concluded something is wrong with the ISO that is posted.
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 9
Date: 2022-12-11
Votes: 33
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Best simple and nice looking alternative to Windows XP/7/8/10/11. Better that Linux Mint (that I love and was using before) because of the effort to make it look like Windows, by using great KDE themes. Prefered the full install to get Office suite, etc. Just select the win10 in parameters and boom, system looks like Windows (Though it works differently, like single click open a file).
I disagree with people below that find it slow. It is NOT, and is working perfectly fine out of the box.
Discover is the very simple app market and using deb package is simple also.
This is now my primary OS. Win11 is on a second partition for 1 proprietary program I cannot yet use in Linux (I need to learn alternative).
I use dual boot. Files are on a shared partition (in NTFS ane encrypted by Bitlocker). This encrypted partition is seamlessly accessible via Q4OS (just enter the bitlocker partition password at Q4OS start).
It is not perfect, I had to install Segoe UI font to improve the win10/11 look. Some glitches happen sometimes. That' OK.
I will not come back to windows as my first OS. And I have saved some money by refurbishing some old computers with Q4OS, like my Acer C720P tactile chromebook...Everything works fine. It's a bit slow, but this is a Celeron PC of 2015 !
Q4OS and Linux in general are good for making the most of our computers and not recycling them because win11 demands it !
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-12-05
Votes: 31
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Q4Os for me is being the best working distro for soft programming for commercial automation. I recommend this distro to those new to linux.
I'm a free pascal programmer (lazarus) and this distro works for me a lot, along with the postgresql database.
Q4Os being based on Debain my line of learning was very easy on how to configure and install dependency packages and other production applications. I believe newcomers as soon as they see an easy to use Q4Os environment will recommend it to more people.
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 9
Date: 2022-11-09
Votes: 10
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Changed from Debian Bullseye , to this fantastic piece of OS.
At first installation I choosed full package with TDE, didnt like, because of load of software I didnt used and the WIN XP appearance, but I do why q4os devs made it like that.
Then i changed to Basic installation and XFCE desktop, that was pretty much what I have sought for, basic, snappy and clean , until I should compile something from github, did not work , alot packages was missing, and changed again to full distro of Q4OS and MATE desktop and now I pretty much like this alot, maybe I stay here in Q4OS for a while.
+ I have now 37,57seconds boot time from power on to login screen with hp amd laptop from 2014 after I did some cleaning
of systemd boot services. can't wait till I get my hands on a SSD.
- nothing directly, but sometimes MATE software fails to load, for example Caja-file browser, but that I can change.
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 8
Date: 2022-11-06
Votes: 1
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Slow loading on startup. Slow installing applications. Slow uninstalling applications. Toooooo many updates.Won't run Opera. Discover is very limited. Other than those things it is a great little alternative to windows 10 or 11 hell. biden would probably use it if he could remember how to run it. Highly suggest using it. It will grow on you. This is a very good reason to stop the distro dance. MX Linux may be a bit better in the purest sense.Might use WUBI although this project has not been worked on since 2007.
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 8
Date: 2022-10-20
Votes: 8
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Version 64 bits with Trinity desktop.
Once installed, everything works fine on my very low power pc (Atom 2 GB Ram): the system is a Debian.
Since now I did not encountered some old problems that where present on the previous version (for example, a crash from time to time of Dolphin).
My hardware works fine, no problem with the printer, the scanner, sound and webcam. Even Skype works fine.
I did not tried all the software packages, but all those ones I tried worked fine.
This version is a good choice for everyone that wants a working system on old hardware or just someone, like me, that loves old fashioned but working desktop (by the way Trinity is the last available version)..
So why just 8 and not 10 on my rating?
1. the basic theme gives a start menu that could be, in my opinion, confusing: why not put it simpler? (ok, there are other theme you ca choose from, where the start menu is simpler)
2. the strong emphasis on Konqueror: I really like it, but as a browser now it is not the best one, so maybe the best choiice is to use a real modern browser and a separate file manager.
3. the installation, on my machine, was really hard: I tried many times. My hard disk config is an old classic: 3 main partitions and one logic with many partitions. It was impossible to install it on a logic partition (boot on that partition or on MBR), at last I was able to install it on one main partition and boot on that.
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 4
Date: 2022-10-17
Votes: 17
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Q40S team raises the bar of expectations about their Trinity distro on their website: "lightweight, fast, efficient, in many ways surpasses competition.. we love it so much..." I downloaded and installed q4os-4.10-x64-tde.r2.iso. I tested it thoroughly for almost a week by using it as my "main daily driver". Neither Q4OS nor Trinity surpass any competition to put it mildly.
Live session starts promising with clear messages and friendly pop-ups. Feel n looks are utterly windowzy. Dejavu. WinXP reborn. Home-brew installers of popular apps amusingly imitate the classic install-shield setups. But my amusement stopped there.
Q40S cannot install a working Grub in UEFI either by following the defaults or by partitioning manually the disk and creating a 300mb fat32 partition mounted at /boot/efi and flagged as "boot". I booted a random Debian live iso. Mounted local partitions and reinstalled grub from the command line. Not exactly the windowzy way to install a "Desktop Operating System".
Trinity is indeed colourful and highly customizable in pure KDE vein. Alas it remains buggy like its KDE progenitor. "Theme Manager" erases 30 minutes of customization by just pressing OK. It reverts to defaults while THERE IS a "defaults" button on the left. Control panel offers duplicate and overlapping options with sometimes baffling lack of... control. You have not permission to change this or that setting as plain user, you are not offered with credential prompts upon saving and not an easy way to run the control panel as admin.
Keybindings are a sore point. They are somehow hardcoded. You cannot switch keyboard layouts but with "alt+ctrl+K" only. "TDE Keyboard Tool" residing on the system tray offers the option to change the keyboard shortcut but it does not actually work. People use alt+shift, super+space, ctrl+shift etc not only on Linux but on every "Desktop Operating System". Now try to bind terminal to standard ctrl+alt+T. It is ctrl+T on Q40S Tde but cannot be applied when some app windows are active when it conflicts with the app keybindings. You have to deselect active windows and click on an empty space of the desktop.
Mime types handling is even worse. For some strange reason "popular" file types like epub are not recognized as such, even when you force association with a relevant program. Mime type is not application/x-epub+zip as the default /etc/default/mime.types designates in good ol' debian way! It is application/x-kdeuser1 (!) because Trinity interferes with mime-type handling creating some .local/share/mime folder with obscure configuration files.
I found my way around but I'll you tell this: it wasn't worth my time. Some things should work out of the box. They do… in competition.
Handing of some menial tasks is frustrating. You attach an external usb drive to your comp. A media applet in the tray prompts you with the option to mount it and Konqueror opens it. So far so good. Try now to play media files stored in your external drive, videos or music files. "Couldn't create GStreamer source element for media:/sdb1/Music/[nameofyourmusicalbum]/02. [nameofthetrack].flac". Media applet mounts the external drive onto "media:/sdbX", a path that is not recognized by the very same media players "Q4Os Software Center" installs. If you go around through your file manager you'll find the same drive in "media/yourusername/labelofyourdrive" where any other distro would have pointed you to straight away. You wonder what would happen if Q40S developers didn't really love Trinity so much.
Bottom line: As Windows-meme Q4OS Trinity version has its moments. For anything else, such as running a lean and capable desktop on an old PC, use xfce or icebox or anything, my friends, if you want a customizable and at the same time transparent and reliable system, but not Trinity as at least distributed by Q4OS.
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 9
Date: 2022-10-13
Votes: 5
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How could anyone think that this is the best distro? I have tried at least 30 and it is by far the best. Designed with the user in mind. A real contender to replace windows. The only irritations is constant updates. "While talking about security, Q40s is very difficult to break through and hence it is a highly secure OS when compared to the other operating systems. Its high-tech security is one of the main reasons for Linux popularity and enormous use." Stop you hopping a use Q40; you will be glad you did.
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 9
Date: 2022-10-11
Votes: 2
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I like Q4OS 4.10. Two weeks ago, I installed the x64 Trinity edition from a CD on a Prescott-core Pentium 4 PC with 2 GB of RAM. Installation was easy for me, a Windows nerd. So far, Q4OS has worked great, and I plan to continue to use it to meet my Linux needs.
Here are minor issues that kept me from giving Q4OS 4.10 a rating of 10:
1. An icon appeared in the dock to inform me that updates were available. When I tried to install the updates, the update process failed. Google helped me to learn that I needed to run "sudo apt update" and "sudo apt dist-upgrade" before the automated updates would succeed. I think that the automatic updates application should be smart enough to just work without me needing to prepare the computer for updates from the command line.
2. Q4OS comes with two web browsers, Firefox and Konqueror. Firefox is up to date and works well, but Konqueror is out of date and should not be used to browse the web. Konqueror also serves as the file manager, which is fine, but Konqueror is prominently presented as a web browser with Konqueror "Web Browser" shortcuts placed on the desktop and the taskbar by default. To encourage users to use the up-to-date browser, only Firefox should be prominently presented as a web browser on the desktop and the taskbar by default.
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-10-09
Votes: 5
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Using Plasma Desktop which I find very responsive, customizable and easy to use. I do have almost 10 years Linux experience now. I only use MS Windows were I have to these days.
I have tended to now use Debian based distros, having tried Arch and others in the past. For me the only two distros I track and use are Mints LMDE and Q4OS Plasma. Both are Debian Stable but each uses a different Desktop. Both work well for me.
Q4OS is much leaner and a little faster than LMDE, so its best for older desktops and notebooks.
I use Q4OS as my business desktop for one year now on a business MS Windows domain network. My hardware is a Intel i3 NUC Mini PC with 8Gb Mem, SSD and a 4K Screen attached. It's extremely reliable and responsive with Firefox Browser running two instances (Hosted Accounting system and business browsing with approx 10 tabs open across both instances, Linux MS Teams app (Chat and Teams meetings), SoftOffice 2021 for Word Processing, Spreadsheeting etc, RDP connection to a Windows Terminal Server (KRDC) and Evolution connecting me to my O365 mailbox. Almost never have a problem operating on a business network. Memory usage around 3.5Gb total. I also have Wine 7.0 installed to handle one small Windows app I need. I print on the business network and attach to Windows shares to share files.
At home I run another Intel NUC with another 4K screen. Similar setup to above but I run a few strategy wargames I enjoy under Wine 7. I print reliably to an HP OfficeJet and listen to music via bluetooth to a sound system.
Very underrated in my opinion.
Pro's
- Very lean install - I use the basic profile and then add only what I need from there
- Can setup using a profile to build a new PC how you want it.
- A great Linux business desktop with careful setup
- Things just work out of the box - printing, wireless, etc
- Fast and responsive on older hardware
- Stable and reliable day to day - very dependable
- Best battery runtime I have found on a Linux distro - I add tlp for even better run times.
- Reliable updates - I use Timeshift to snapshot before major changes
Cons
- Being Debian Stable, choose your hardware to suit. (Not the latest !)
A solid dependable distro and one worth investigating - excellent job the Dev's have done here.
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-09-29
Votes: 6
|
Using Trinity desktop it is light, stable, and fast boot.
Wireless, bluetooth, brave browser etc. just work.
Stable debian is always reliable and easy to maintain with synaptic.
Plenty of packages to handle webcam, capture of desktop, specific text editors and file managers.
Control Panel allows customization of keyboard shortcuts, display, user specific desktop icons and themes...
Using it on a 2014 hp chromebook with intel 2955u processor and 4gb ram and 32 gb emmc for desktop purposes.
Tried a couple of other distros like Gallium OS etc. and this one was the most current and worked for me.
Had to tweak a file setting or two for things like two finger scrolling on trackpad... but pretty much worked out of the box.
Tools allow you to change the menu and look and feel pretty easily and this was appreciated.
If you are using and older less capaable pc like me suggest you use Trinity desktop over Plasma for more responsive pc.
A big thank you to the devs, good job and good documentation!!!
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 9
Date: 2022-08-28
Votes: 7
|
I've been looking for a "lite" distro for my 10yo laptop and have gone through several and so far Q4OS is my favorite. I have an Intel I3 powered laptop with only 8G of ram and Q4OS is lean and fast. I also like how surprisingly customizable it is with a fresh look right out of the box. I have been using it for a few months with no issues or bugs, which is a pleasant surprise. I'm only using it to do basic pc tasks so I can't comment on how it will perform for power users but I don't think it's intended use.
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 9
Date: 2022-08-28
Votes: 2
|
simply and fast
after a few years of leaving the windows tablet in the warehouse, because there have been several ways to install the OS but it always fails to install on the internal storage. Finally I tried to install Q4OS for my tablet and it worked. By Q4OS made easy and the system process runs fast. Oh yes, for this tablet using a 32bit system.
So for now, every laptop and pc install always uses Q4OS, a reliable Linux OS.
For 32bit computers I use TDE and for 64bit I use KDE. And lots of theme developers for KDE.
Thank you Q4OS teams.
Good Job.
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 8
Date: 2022-08-05
Votes: 2
|
5.10 Kernel, 5.20.5 KDE, XServer11, Debian 11 "Buster".
Pros:
A Must-Try for those who long for Mint KDE, albeit without the excellent Mint USB burning apps. Use CLI dd command, instead.
Stable, reliable KDE implementation. Mouse Double-Click setting is easy to find, for example. Installing KDE-Decorations-Oxygen will install KDE_theme-oxygen Style for those of us that prefer Oxygen.
Can copy Live USB .iso onto a disk, re-booting. Installation then becomes quicker since there is no USB Persistence.
It's somehow re-assuring and comforting seeing the old Windows App. dialogue boxes. Wonderful, great to see.
Can make look like W7 or W10.
Works with ATI graphics chips.
GuFW installs, just have to turn on.
Relatively quick Desktop install.
Plethora of usable apps in the Welcome Screen Install Applications window. Apps (56) must be installed one-at-a-time, though.
Can install Synaptics through the Install Applications window and Muon through Discovery. So one has 3 methods to install apps.
Discovery is tightly integrated with Synaptics so there is little fear of installing two versions, Debian and SNAP or FlatPak. Could not install Synaptics through Discovery search function.
Discovery has the Q4OS version of gparted, which is great since the newest gparted version is crippled to an extent.
Minimal password pop-ups when installing software. Much appreciated.
Multimedia codecs install quickly.
Cons:
Finding a downloadable .iso wasn't easy on the website.
Asks for contribution before trying out the OS.
SystemD. If there are other Swaps on other disks, System D will create one big swap file and will format all the other swap spaces.
GRUB is hard-wired. Cannot use update-Grub commands as they are non-existent, Grub Customizer cannot modify GRUB. There is no GRUB editor. #apt-get install GRUB2 does nothing.
Grub DOS/Ascii boot menu and commands. Shuts down in DOS/Ascii. It would have been better if SuSE Tumbleweed's GRUB2-EFI or Neptune Linux's GRUB2 menu were used.
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Version: 3.15
Rating: 9
Date: 2022-08-02
Votes: 1
|
I moved to Q4OS on a whim, when I changed drives on my main machine and needed a replacement for Debian and Elementary. It was a pleasant experience. There were a couple of odd interface irritations, but nothing more. everything worked and worked well and performance was excellent.
Performance is largely the result of good hardware and a decent core OS, but the desktop experience is mostly due to the WM or desktop environment. I found Trinity natural and dependable. Note: Many of the packages were stable editions, nothing is really "cutting edge", but neither is it stale.
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Version: 4.10
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-08-01
Votes: 5
|
I have found that Q4OS is an excellent fast, reliable, and stable OS to run on a roomful of older (20+ year old) computers in a vocational resource room. It has broad compatibility, ease of use (looks a lot like windows) and is easy to update and add programs to. The only downside is its somewhat plain appearance but I like it that way. Of the dozens of lite Linux OSes I have tried over 5+ years Q4OS has been the best by far! Each version up the the current one has been excellent! I wish there could be more current reviews about Q4OS so more people would know about it.
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Version: 4.9
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-07-27
Votes: 1
|
First time every reviewing a distro.
I've been looking for a ready-to-go distro for my incredibly slow Lenovo S10-3, and I've found it. It's extremely performant, easy, and I was up and running within minutes. The entire set up was painless.
I would say that the desktop profile application just needs a bit more polish (text > is no good).
The other issue is Trinity (KDE 3.5) is having some trouble with some basics like discovering network shares on the network.
I hope to see more from Q4OS...
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Version: 4.9
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-07-25
Votes: 3
|
I did not know this distro and I have had a great surprise. It's right up there with mx linux and sparky linux. It has its own tools that facilitate the installation of programs, private codecs, etc. It makes life easier on the Debian planet. It allows a computer to be ready in 10-15 minutes, something that is impossible in a Debian. It comes with kde plasma but also kde trinity which is lighter and has a "retro" feel to it.It automatically detected my Nvidia card and installed the drivers when asked, something that does not happen in mx linux, nor in sparky, nor in debian distros (i mean, the right drivers).
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Version: 4.8
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-07-22
Votes: 5
|
First look: Hmmm, it is nothing...
Second look: So simple, but no garbage, I started to like it.
Third look: Well selected programs and preconfiguration. Simple, and easy to eyes. No bullshit, no eyecandy, no pointless hype. This is a very good KDE Plasma desktop built from Debian particles.
If you like plasma desktop and Debian but does not have time, and/or not tuned for setting up every aspect manually by yourself, just want to drop it on a PC or laptop and use it, then here we go. Q4OS is for you.
I prefer vanilla Debian as my system and configure everything myself for me, but these guys at Q4OS did a lot of work for you. In the future I will use it when quickly want to have a Debian based plasma desktop with almost zero effort :)
Recommended.
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Version: 4.8
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-07-15
Votes: 2
|
One of the best Debian-based distributions, if not the best.
Extremely good optimization on old hardware, even on the Plasma edition. I had great performance on a Celeron+4GB RAM.
Painless setup with its own GUI tools for codecs, software and various settings and easy installation thanks to Calamares.
I found this distro looking for a PC revival OS, but I'll probably end up installing it on modern hardware just because of how good it is, taking a mostly unaltered Debian base and preparing it for desktop use.
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Version: 4.8
Rating: 6
Date: 2022-07-15
Votes: 1
|
1. Automatic time setting not possible from default.
2. Option to Store password for this user encrypted (wifi) deletes the current WIFI password.
3. network speed graph widget stops working
4. software package for update via sudo apt update incorrectly set by Dicovery package manager. When Software updates GUIselect from main to other it would close the app.
5. Battery usage heavy. I experienced a running time of 1.4 Hours compared to other of 3.2 Hours
6. They do not use sha256 hash to validate ther O.S. but an outdated non standard hash
7. The battery indictor would disappear
8. Would not read USB untill my machine was rebooted
9. Problem with discovery package manager changing main depositories incorrectly. See forum.
Good
1. supports Secure boot
2. support 32 bit systems
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Version: 4.8
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-07-13
Votes: 1
|
Excellent distro with a great set of its own tools. Desktop profiler really simplifies using and customizing new installations. Comfortable for former Windows users and newcomers to Linux too. Trinity desktop runs very fast and it's snappier then any other desktop I have used. But Plasma desktop is definitely more modern and reliable then the Trinity desktop, so I prefer Plasma. I had a glitch with Wifi USB dongle, but I understand hardware support follows the Debian base. Another great and unique option is the Windows installer, it even works on the Windows 11 with secure boot BIOS. Overall distribution rating 10/10.
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Version: 4.8
Rating: 9
Date: 2022-05-22
Votes: 16
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Q4OS is:
Stable & durable difficult to break.
Fast & efficient low ram usage and just very very fast on new hardware.
A very large software Debian software selection.
very intuitive with KDE Plasma DE, less so with Trinity but still nice.
No bloat, just what is needed and you have option to install Synaptic.
I spent substantial time installing and uninstalling packages just to see if I could break it, and I could not.
This distro is amongst the best, right up there at the top with MX and Mint.
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Version: 4.8
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-05-10
Votes: 14
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This is VERY polished distribution, based straight out of Debian, which gives you 60.000 packages through Synapse. I'm running the 32 bit version on a 2008 Intel Atom N270 netbook with 2GB of RAM and a slow mechanical hard drive. It is probably one of the few viable operating systems on such a low performance computer.
The Trinity Desktop Environment is a gem. It is really very polished. Qt based (KDE derived, not sure), resembling Windows XP while maintaining a very consistent look throughout the system. Trinity is that good and should be more seriously considered in other distributions.
The system also comes with an excellent text based installer that does manual partitioning very well. Installation is minimal, and uponfirst graphical boot you are greeted with a start windows that allows you to choose the main packages / codecs and everything you need to configure your system in a very user friendly way.
Hardware support was excellent, with WiFi, Wireless Printing, Bluetooth, TrackPad, Vertical Scrolling, and keyboard shortcuts (volume, brightness etc) working straight out of on first boot (only bluetooth requires a base package installation, which is offered on the welcome screen).
I'm delighted. Will definitely try this distro on my other test systems and rank it among my favorite distros. Thank you!
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Version: 4.8
Rating: 9
Date: 2022-05-06
Votes: 14
|
This distro is a wonder that should be in the top three, right with MX and Mint. This distro is very well thought out and the new version is so polished and professional, and yet it will run great on an older machine. What more could you need, a very intuitive gem with speed and a rock solid vast software selection of Debian. There is no weakness here, this is built to survive and get work done. This is distro is not built for beauty, but it does have a charm all of its own, and makes me think of the days of XP when you just got work done.A truly special distro.
Thanks devs
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Version: 4.8
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-04-08
Votes: 18
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Everything is set up perfectly out of the box, there is NO WARNING about setup.
The most reliable operating system in the world and the ever-improving Q4.OS.
It's a system that never fails.
I was looking for a KDE-focused distro without a lot of quirky personality. I had Kubuntu installed prior to this and Manjaro prior to that (I've basically used just about every distro in existence at one time of another). Q4OS doesn't offer the breadth of programs an Arch-based distro does, but then again it also doesn't suffer the self-imposed suicide rolling releases succumb to inevitably. Q4OS is significantly better than Kubuntu. It is faster, installs easier, and other software packages install without a hitch that Kubuntu chokes on.
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Version: 4.8
Rating: 8
Date: 2022-04-07
Votes: 8
|
Q4OS KDE Plasma 4.8 'Gemini':
Installation and basic profile choice was a breeze.
Eyecandy galore once plasmoids/plasma/widgets are chosen and configured.
Stability seems solid with this version as does the performance once tweaked for my test rig.
As the Q4OS software centre is still totally underwhelming, 1st apps to install, post firewall enablement and updates, are 'Synaptic package-manager' then install 'Discover' for a wider spectrum of apps.
Been testing this since release and so far, so good...
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 8
Date: 2022-03-31
Votes: 10
|
I have used for a while both the editions of Q4OS.
The x64 + Plasma DE on an old laptop (Core2Duo & 4gb RAM) and the x86 + Trinity DE on a very old desktop (P4 & 1.5gb RAM).
Both of the them had smooth installations and zero issues with the drivers.
Q4OS Trinity offers also three levels of preinstalled packages (minimal, basic, full).
I went for the intermediate options and it was quite conservative as I had to install by myself a media player and an email client. It was very lightweight, stable but only moderately fluid (e.g. compared to AntiX).
To give numbers, the RAM usage oscillated between 200 and 350 mb (idle).
Also, it tends to reminds too much Windows XP by a visual point of view. In my opinion, a bit of originality would have been better also because using Konqueror as default windows manager is not great for the pleasure of the eyes in 2022. Thus, I rate it 7.
Q4OS Plasma is a simple and solid Debian-distro.
RAM usage in idle was always around 900 mb.
What I missed is a more refined app center and a more attractive global look. But I do recommend it if you want to say bye to Ubuntu-based distros in favor of a Debian-stable. I rate it 9.
Averaging, I came out with an 8.
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-03-09
Votes: 2
|
Fast, Reliable, Limitless, Decisive.
Debian Q4.OS
The name is “Bullseye” because it’s always on target.
Q4's resources are unending. It’s X86 versions will bring the oldest Pentium back to life, while the 64b version will handle the newest hardware. Download the Debian Q4 ISO that fits your hardware and create a live OS as a demo via USB or DVD. While using Debian Q4 Bullseye in live demonstration mode it won't take long to convince you of it's power, elegance, stability, economical resource management and infinite possibility's.
Sold on Q4 so soon, your next task is to create a backup file, before hard drive wiping and re-imaging. Writing Debian Q4 Bullseye to another hard drive, pen drive, etc can also be considerations at this point. Only you can provide the best answer that suits your needs.
With all having a common goal thousands of volunteers have worked diligently together over a twenty-eight year period to perfect a never ending series of impossible software and hardware tasks.
The result of this herculean effort is:
The worlds most sure footed Operating System and ever improving Masterpiece called Q4.OS.
Q4.OS, it’s the system that never quits.
A short list of LINUX Debian Q4’s infinite possibles include: long term support, operating systems for servers, operating systems
for personal computers, touch pads and phones. Many specialization options in Q4 menu also exist, such as: raspberry-
pi projects, language translation, artificial intelligence, education (preschool to post PHD), computer administration,
programming, video conference, video editing, live media, emulation, simulation, gaming, 3D printing, E-Readers, news
readers, libraries, web development, E-Commerce, YouTube live presentations, music composition, radio, security cams,
MIDI, HDMI, OCR,OBD2, GPS, robotics, etc..
Did I mention all of that and much more is Free. Check out what you have been missing, step up to Q4.OS by Debian with it’s 58,000 applications available in free repositories all over the world.
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-03-08
Votes: 2
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I used Manjaro's GNOME, Cinnamon, and Plasma. Manjaro is awesome. However, I have been leaning to going to a more long term stable release and undecided. I used Q4OS before on an older 32-bit machine and liked it but it did not influence me. It was good and I left it on there knowing it would always work. Since I was looking into a stable release for my main 64-bit PC, I was reading more about Q4OS and comparing it to Debian proper considering Debian, Linux Mint or MX Linux. I liked the ease of installation provided by Q4OS. What really sold me on this distribution is the Windows Installer. I was able to download a small file to Windows directly and execute the installation of Q4OS from within Windows 10 without doing partitioning. Bottom line, flawless installation and I keep my default Windows 10 boot loader for my wife but can switch to the Q40S boot loader when I am on the PC. The PC will still boot automatically into Windows 10 without messing around with GRUB. Fantastic way to incorporate Linux. I was using KDE Plasma and liking it - one of my favorite desktops on any distribution. I was able to also install the Cinnamon desktop and its awesome! The installation was done via the Q4OS profiler which downloads other desktop environments for you. Cinnamon is fast, sleek, and good looking. I have a stable distribution with 3 desktops bootable from my main drive without messing my Windows boot loader - just awesome. I still like my Manjaro on a separate SSD but Q4OS and Debian are fantastic. It's not the newest software but I am learning that new software is not the end-all-be-all. I feel more confident now using Debian as a daily-driver. Although in all fairness to Manjaro, I have been using it as a daily-driver from a separate SSD and it has been flawless. But I am liking that I am not getting constant package updates with Q4OS and if I don't use this machine for a week or two, there won't be any issues because any updates will be small versus the Arch updates which can be large. Kudos to the Q4OS developers! If you want a fast, nimble, and stable distribution that is flexible built on the solid and boring foundation of Debian - this is a great distribution. BTW -
"boring" is good - it means you will finish what you were doing on your PC and shutdown without any surprises or necessary fixes the next time you boot up. For me, I like that it gives me an easy way to get Debian from within Windows 10 without messing up my Windows installation. I am very happy with this solid distribution.
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-03-02
Votes: 14
|
Q4OS is everything a good Debian spin should be: stable, reasonably updated packages, fast and good on resources, with the codecs and some good themes, etc. that you don't get from a Debian installation. You can choose either legacy KDE Trinity or Plasma. I chose Plasma, and for me it beats any other Debian spin I have used, whether MX, Neptune, Devuan, siduction, etc. One of the issues I have with MX is too many MX tools and too much conky focus; not that you can't just ignore these and/or turn them off, but still... so...much...bloat. Just give me a basic, minimal setup and let me choose the rest. Q4OS excels at this.
Having a variety of choices for installation is a plus: full desktop, basic, minimal. Choose your starting point and go from there. A very pleasant, bloat-free experience. Downloaded everything else I needed quickly and easily, albeit I prefer just using the terminal and apt rather than GUI tools such as Discover, Synaptic, or the Q4OS Software Center, but the choice is yours to make.
The included WinXP, Win10, and Q4OS Debonaire themes are nice. I was never a Windows user, so I don't really care to replicate that experience, but the Debonaire theme is very nice.
To me, Q4OS is the perfect balance of Debian simplicity and stability, and desktop functionality.
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 9
Date: 2022-02-17
Votes: 4
|
Very good. All works perfectly so far. I had no issues with NVIDIA drivers as opposite to MX Linux and Mint installation. If you want KDE + Debian in a light distro, this is the one for you. The only negative point I have found so far is the windows-style package manager. Fortunatelly you can easily switch to Synaptics which is much better.
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-02-01
Votes: 8
|
I am using the KDE environment. Excellent, clean, fast and stable distribution. After downloading, it consumes only 0.41 GB of RAM. Before that I tried Manjaro, Kubuntu, Neon but Q4 the best.
I'm using the Base version. There is no software in it at all, but it can be installed by choice in 2-3 minutes from a special Q4 program without using a terminal.
Unlike Manjaro and Ububtu-based distributions, which are constantly downloading updates, Q4 is based on the stable debian 5.10 kernel. The distribution kit just works and does not bother with notifications and patches.
The only problem that arose was telegram, which was outdated in the Debian repository and did not connect, but I connected Flatpack and downloaded the latest version
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 8
Date: 2022-01-15
Votes: 8
|
This distro looks good running under Virtualbox. The devs are smart enough to realise that a VM is a good way of trying out a new distro and they actually include a customised VBoxAdditions which prompts you to install it on first running.
As for the choice of desktop I was pleased to see that Trinity gets a look in. I have always like KDE3 and Trinity carries on the tradition but have found in the past that it was either impossible or very hard to install it on other distros.
The only things I dislike about this distro are sudo and systemd. To my mind sudo is a security nightmare and a very silly thing to have implemented. As I am thinking about installing this distro on my main box, which due to lack of finance is a bit light on resources, I resent having to put such a large sub-system like systemd on the computer when runit or SysVinit can do the job and not take up so much space.
From my limited use of Q4OS the selection of programs is good and I prefer apt and synaptic as a way of installing them.
All in all a promising candidate for permanent installation, I just wish that I could just use su to get things done.
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 9
Date: 2022-01-13
Votes: 8
|
This review is for 32-bit Q4OS with the Trinity desktop - Q4OS 4.7.1-n1, Trinity R14.0.11 running on a Dell Inspiron 3180 with a dual core AMD A6-9220e (1.6GHz) CPU, RADEON R4 GPU and 4GB RAM.
Q4OS has now replaced MX Linux as my daily driver. MX Linux is an excellent distro - lightweight, fast, very capable and very stable and my reason for replacing it with Q4OS is not a logical one but rather an emotional one. I have very fond memories of Windows XP, which I still think is one of the best Windows ever made and Q4OS is very similar to Windows XP. Q4OS is also lightweight, fast, (subjectively, it feels more lightweight and faster than MX), capable (MX I think is much more capable than Q4OS but I actually don't need and don't want some of that additional capability) and very stable. Q4OS is an almost perfect distro for me. I only want to browse the web, play videos and tinker with WordPress (Q4OS can easily run the Apache2 and the MariaDB servers). I don't need and really don't want anything more - in my old age I believe in a minimalist lifestyle. For a person of this mindset I think Q4OS is almost perfect.
The only real problem I had with this distro is the installer did not make a bootable drive. But, I think this problem was caused by my having previously installed another Linux distro which left my Dell laptop with an unusual boot environment. This problem can easily be fixed by using extlinux to install the legacy boot loader.
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 9
Date: 2021-12-24
Votes: 8
|
A great bistro. Installs faultless. All the most useful software is included including Chrome instead of the dreadful Firefox. Loads pretty quickly and uses minimum resources. The only bugbear is Discovery which works for upgrades but not for loading new software,Synaptic does the job well. Have customised to give a more Mac like interface. Easily done and the end result is better than the distress which claim to give a Mac like look.
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 10
Date: 2021-12-10
Votes: 26
|
Works right out of the box, basically has what you need for office work, web browsing and media playing. The distro looks great, works great- very stable, is speedy and is easy to use. Definitely a very nice set of themes here
and the Trinity desktop environment works flawlessly. I’d love to see even more themes too, like how Zorin does with a Windows 7 theme, Mac OS, etc., but if you make those theme available, please make the themes more accurate and stable, because they are so sluggish and buggy in Zorin.
ThNk you developers!
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Version: 3.15
Rating: 10
Date: 2021-12-09
Votes: 25
|
Note: this review applies to the Trinity version only. I don't know why the Plasma version exists, it's just not good on all fronts, I dunno why they push it so hard on their website. Don't get tricked, and install the Trinity version from ISO.
Q4OS is the best distro for old or aging computers (or for running them newfangled Qubes VMs) that I found.
32bit version? Check. Running old and incredibly stable distros, that have support for outdated drivers? Check. Lightweight everything? Got it. Incredibly long-term support? Yep.
Its main aim is to replicate the Windows XP experience in Linux, without limiting any of the power of a Linux system, and I would say it does that really well. The DE is a total blast from the past. It has GUIs for installing all your favorite apps, so no messing around with consoles for your grandma, she can use what she's been used to for a decade. Its software center has all the apps your grandma might possibly need.
Under the hood it's a Debian system - the stable one for 4.7 and the oldstable one for 3.15. I see no reason to complain there. Not much tinkering is required.
The install process is buttery smooth. On first boot, it will even check the repos if there are drivers available for your setup and download and install them itself.
If you fancy, it can even install from windows with an installer. That option forces you into having a Plasma desktop and DM, which you'd have to purge, but it's still unique in allowing you to do it.
Overall, awesome system, and in my opinion super underrated. Def recommend.
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 10
Date: 2021-11-30
Votes: 25
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I installed the KDE Version which works out of the box. For every new user of Linux very recommended distro!!!
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 10
Date: 2021-11-27
Votes: 17
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If you want classic Windows-like experience and similar interface Q4OS Trinity with wine-classic theme is the best I've ever seen. What you get is basically modern OS with support for modern web browsers, codecs, office software under the hood and old school looks. The distro is unbelievably light on resources. If you have a PC that came with Windows XP this is the best replacement with all the essential support for modern internet, file formats, codecs and other technologies. Your old brick laptop is going to be resurected for some office work, video and music playback and streaming services like Spotify, Netflix, Youtube etc. Unless it's CPU and GPU is too old to manage it. 1GB RAM is rather minimum for modern web technologies used by Google Chrome and similar web browsers. 2GB is recommended.
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 7
Date: 2021-11-24
Votes: 0
|
I tried both the Trinity and Plasma Live ISO out today and found both worked okay and were relatively simple to use.
Trinity is the better ISO in terms of quality and overall polish from the Q4OS team.
I liked the included Q4OS control panel and layout options which were laid out well over and above the usual KDE 3 settings dialogues Trinity have continued with and improved upon. 10/10 for that ISO
The Plasma ISO was not up to the same high standard. For the most part it was Vanilla KDE but there were some odd additions and omissions. I was not overly impressed by the bundled Windows Clone Global themes in addition to the stock Breeze and Breeze Dark. XP Concept was reasonably well executed but W10 was the usual end user cludge of using two application Launchers next to each other just for a search box on the panel. I'd hoped they would have developed something combining the two elements into one launcher rather than shipping a theme preset like that. 5/10 for Plasma ISO since it felt like an early development build rather than a proper release.
Hence the 7/10 overall.
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Version: 4.7
Rating: 10
Date: 2021-11-22
Votes: 15
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Overall one of the best linux distributions to use. It is light on system resources and very stable.
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Version: 4.6
Rating: 9
Date: 2021-11-16
Votes: 15
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Très satisfait (Trinity)... convient parfaitement pour les vieux PC, consomme vraiment peu de mémoire, rapide. Bref on peut la qualifier de véritable distribution légère.
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Version: 3.15
Rating: 6
Date: 2021-11-12
Votes: 9
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Today I needed a live distro, where I can use Citrix workspace for access to the company space and MS Teams too.
This distro works out of the box and I have installed both application as an deb package.
It runs smooth and stable the whole work day.
Thanks for the distro. Very nice.
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Version: 4.6
Rating: 3
Date: 2021-11-06
Votes: 0
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I have the KDE Centaurus in my main pc and I'm very happy with it. In my old 32 bits pc, I used the Trinity desktop of Centaurus and always worked really really great, but I tried Gemini with Trinity desktop and it was a great disappoinintment. I couldn't see videos nor listen to music because the music and video players didn't found the archives, they said that it couldn't found the path.... I tried with vlc, mpv... Because of this, I didn't tried it anymore... So bad!!! I hope that the developers fix these bugs
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Version: 3.15
Rating: 10
Date: 2021-10-30
Votes: 15
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A beautiful, stable distro, I use the KDE desktop. Stable and productive, The best distro I have ever tried. Trust the German developers to keep the system up to date, stable and secure. I have used it now for over a year, easy to install and use, customizable totally to the users needs. Compatibility with a huge range of software that Debian has. I like the fact that the tentacles of Microsoft has not infiltatrated anywhere. I love a pure Linux OS and packages and will not accept anything else on my machine. I run photography software, Siril, Rawtherapee, Fotoxx, Codeblocks C++, Apache Netbeans which is recovering from Oracle slowly, LibreOffice. Gimp, Thunderbird mail. Firefox. In my eyes and usage this OS is the Top distro to use. Thank you developers in Germany from one very satisfied user in New Zealand.
Kindest Regards John in Tauranga New Zealand
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Version: 4.6
Rating: 1
Date: 2021-10-28
Votes: 0
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Mostly a waste of time. Promises a lot and delivers little. Developer refuses to fix the bugs. FIDO
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Version: 4.6
Rating: 1
Date: 2021-10-25
Votes: 0
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Looks easy; not easy. Just goes away or want load any longer.
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Version: 4.6
Rating: 1
Date: 2021-10-25
Votes: 0
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Not good. Going back to MX. This is aggravating. Waste of time and energy
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Version: 4.6
Rating: 8
Date: 2021-10-20
Votes: 0
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Bluetooth doesn't work. Install looks easy but takes 3 hours before you are through.
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Version: 4.6
Rating: 8
Date: 2021-10-05
Votes: 4
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I love this OS for its "Bourbon" style menu and its right-most panel in the menu for initiating package management and the file browser by clicking on "computer." Th first box opened has a folder titled "Storage Media" which
opens the next box showing what media I can access. This is a feature I would like to see on more distros; at least an easy, useful access to my storage devices. Those are where I keep downloaded ISO files as well as
installable software in the DEB format for OSs that can use them. If my OS used RPM packages, I would store those here. I have used Q4OS beginning with version 3.12 and feel that 4.6 i s the best offering this provider has released to date. The availability of this "Bullseye" edition
means I can use Q4OS with reasonably up-to-date software for a while
Hopefully by the time the next stable Debian release is issued, we'll see a new Q4OS based on that new Debian stable. Q4OS enables me to use the software I need comfortably and I envision being a long-time user of this OS. The biggest downside for me, as with most Distros using the Calamares installer, is the inability of the average user to integrate a dedicated grub file within the EFI framework for a new installation. This indicates EFI will have growing pains and I wonder if they will be satisfactorily resolved within the development community. The BIOS
framework at lest had some grub installation flexibility within the Ubiquity and Refracta installers (MX also has a nice installer). This is a minimal necessity, not an ideal situation.
The grub files set up in the "boot/efi/" path have not been long-lasting
in my usage. I don't blame any OS for this, but I would like to find a solution.All-in-all, UEFI can be adapted to, but is not an entirely smooth transition from BIOS. Guess I should have expected this. Q4OS has a moderate learning curve that is manageable for me.
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Version: 3.15
Rating: 10
Date: 2021-10-02
Votes: 13
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One of my favorite Linux distros. I was planning to switch from Windows to Linux (Currently typing on Q4OS Centaurus), and I can say the performance is great. Everything loads fast, very efficient and lightweight... I was looking for a nice KDE environment, and decided that this one was best for me after testing several KDE Linux distros (Manjaro, Kubuntu, KDE neon, etc.)
I've installed Q4OS on my computer with these specs:
- CPU: Intel Celeron J4125 @ 2GHz, boost @ 2.7 GHz
- GPU: Intel UHD 600
- RAM: 6 GB
Nothing much to complain about, great for anyone wanting to switch to Linux and looking for great performance and a lightweight experience.
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Version: 4.6
Rating: 10
Date: 2021-09-29
Votes: 4
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I am an old Q4OS supporter, up from 2.5 release.
I like it for stability and lightness.
From my point of view it is the first competitor of Antix, which it surpasses in reactivity.
I was afraid that this version would lose its lightness, but instead its footprint is always extremely low.
I have only two small observations:
- when I install it on a PC with bios, where another linux is installed, according to my tests grub does not work (stand alone it is perfect),
- market positioning is to facilitate those transitioning from windows. I really liked the introduction of the "baghira" theme which is used to bring former Mac users closer to linux. Unfortunately this is not among the look-switcher proposals. It is a pity, it seems a missed opportunity.
I also have to add that autologin works perfectly, both with Plasma and TDE.
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Latest Reviews
Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.12
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-09-08
Votes: 13
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q402 is a very well developed system ,it has no flaws y have found no errors using it on modern computers , with plasma desktop ,its installation is very well developed with calamares installer , is a very stable debian distribution y use it also on 32bit very old machines of year 2000 aproximatelly and it works perfectly all the controllers functioning , with trinity desktop on old machines , so y reccomend it for a trouble free installation and a system which you can rely on , also the load on the system is very well manageable . A very well adjusted system , congratulations !!!
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.5
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-08-17
Votes: 15
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I try a lot of distros and desktop environment until some years, . My favourite is the debian, ubuntu based ones with KDE, but the last 2 years i used Tumleweed. Almost everything works, but just almost. Some issues with update, wifi, and printer. I decided to chose other distro. I suffered a lot because always had something problem with printer, appearance settings, mounting usb, installing app, or working stremio. But i have given a chance Q4OS Plasma! Finally, it works!! Everything, i mean really everything what i need. Fine installation, settiings, even the Discover and the updates, printers, stremio, you can use flatpaks. It is fantastic, great thanks!!
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.5
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-08-14
Votes: 17
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Q4OS is a really great operating system, I found it the best option to me. I like the stability and approach of Debian. It is available in two editions, Plasma and Trinity desktop. Plasma pose a better desktop to me, however Trinity has become an extraordinary, novel option. I like the Q4OS Lookswitcher styles idea, I can theme the desktop look in different ways, even in quite believable Windows styles. I prefer Q4OS over other Linux distributions because of the sober approach to keep Debian's proven base, so I can rely on Q4OS absolutely. Repositories of Q4OS offer plenty of applications, they consist of vanilla Debian repositories and some smaller Q4OS one. Live and installation media come with pre-defined set of applications, they are configured with basic and desktop options but the most magic is the ability to define own application set and apply it upon the OS installation. Q4OS also offers some other dedicated native tools they make user's life easier. Q4OS forum seems to be a great platform to get a user support with occasional periods of silence.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.12
Rating: 9
Date: 2024-08-11
Votes: 44
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Really like Q4OS, but the last two versions of Plasma have a bug in the screenlock. It will randomly Fail to show a box for the password when you attempt to wake the computer, and nothing seems to remedy it short of a hard reboot. Upgraded the memory to 16 GBs but it failed to solve the problem.
I finally decided to do the option of installing a second desktop, and that seems to have completely fixed the problem. I am delighted with the change and stability of Cinnamon. New life for Q4OS; it has become my daily driver!
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.5
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-08-08
Votes: 15
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Very tired of Win11 and its # bugs (last updated, my touchpad not working). Ever heard of Linux but I don't what to become an engineer and I have no spare time to learn anything. After a lot of readings I installed Q4OS: perfect and totally working. How to? I don't know, I just chose what was on the screen!
Trinity desktop is very beautiful and anxiety-free. I like very much and the feeling is that you have always used and seen it. I used only Windows for many Years and my fear was to be lost in a Linux desktop. And you can use (when you like) even the plasma desktop (very beautiful but needs more memory).
For programs there are two systems for downloading (one with a simple click but another one is better to write a title as they are too numerous for a readable-in-a-minute list).
Q4OS chosen for Debian, excellent desktop (my first chose was Windows XP replica), fast and NO typical Win11 slowdown problems. Thank you very much and hope the best for Q4OS team!!
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.5
Rating: 9
Date: 2024-07-31
Votes: 2
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compared to a few months ago I found it much improved (you can see the battery level for example). For those coming from windows, this distro is one of the best to take the first step, despite the limited availability of software (unless you go on synaptic which is a bit more difficult for a beginner). We are not at the level of AntiX for old PCs, but we are very close. Tested on an old eee pc 900 with 2gb of ram and a cpu, I think, of 900 mhz... it runs well. Maybe there should also be more clarity on which software is installed in the complete option.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-06-18
Votes: 5
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For many years, I have been distro hopping, hoping that one day, I'll settle down to one particular distro. I do like the concept of a rolling release distro. Install once, and just do the upgrades. The only one that really had my interest was PCLINUXOS as a daily driver. However, I had an issue with that distro that prompted me to look elsewhere. That's where I found Q4OS on Distrowatch. It came with a windows installer. I wish more distros do that. I downloaded Q4OS and install it on my ancient laptop that still have Windows 7. I chose Trinity as my desktop, and after a bit of tweaking, was going good. Very happy with the stability. Yay! The issue that I had with PClinux was not there. Everything worked. I think I have found my daily driver. I even liked the 5 year support. Good-oh.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.12
Rating: 9
Date: 2024-06-05
Votes: 2
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You can install those many programs, I mean just the GUI based ones, most of them need either one of the most common GUIs like KDE, XFCE, GNOME, LXDE so in that moment you install such packet a depencency will be resolved and a compatible desktop engine will be installed, in case there is no native support for Trinity and wrapped around.
And at this point Q4OS is not the light distro as it could be with Trinity only without wrappers.
Native Trinity 10 stars, and also with multiple wrappers, extraordinary stable.
Hope they manage to find some companies that offer paid support in order to grow.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-05-08
Votes: 9
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I first became involved with Mandrake Linux after Win 9x kept crashing for no good reason. Mandrake was stable, and the KDE 3x desktop was configurable, simple, and just worked. When KDE went to 4x and later, it lost me. The 'new and improved' GUI seemed to be all over the place, and it was back to Win for me.
The disaster that is Windows 11, along with MS's soon to be lack of support for 10, led me to Q4OS. It runs quite happily in a VirtualBox, and the Trinity desktop is exactly as I remember KDE 3.
I guess if you are looking for the latest and greatest bling, it might not work for you. For me? I'm making it the stop.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-04-25
Votes: 9
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Q4os raises the bar in productivity for me. Snappy both in startup and use. What I look for in usefulness, this 5.4 release is my
"go to" OS to get things done and have a happy experience doing it.I run it on my Dell Optiplex 9020, which I purchased refurbished.
16 GB RAM, Intel Xeon E3-1200 v3/4th Gen Core Processor in the still reliable mini tower, doing heavy lifting and computing.
Feels like a mating of Windows 98 and 7, two quality releases by Microsoft. This version of Q4os is powered by Debian Bookworm
and constantly reminds me why I can't just drop Debian.Any Windows user who feels ready to embark on the plunge into Linux should try this, but shouldn't expect cute and fashionable.It can make one forget fancy bells and whistles in favor of solid performance. It's an OS designed to be loved. Many thanks to the developers for this project.If someone wanted to share a Windows computer with Linux
fo the firdst time, I would suggest Q4os. I have no reason not to put it on my Dell Inspiron 3910 (Windows 11) desktop, which already has Parrot 6 on a Seagate 1 TB ST1000DM010-2EP102 hard drive.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.4
Rating: 1
Date: 2024-03-11
Votes: 0
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Very, very, very disappointing. I tried Q4OS on three Thinkpad/Lenovo laptops and could not get it properly installed (as in able to boot) on any of the three. Two computers were 64 bit and both ran fine in live mode but both subsequently failed to boot when installed along side Window (aka installed as a Windows app) and both failed to boot as pure installs even though the installer indicted the installation was successful and I should remove the install media and reboot. Once again these ran fine in live mode.
I lo tried the 32 bit version on a 32 bit computer , only there is no 32 bit live mode for Q4OS. Once again Q4OS indicated the installation was successful and I should remove the install media and reboot. ll it did was blink on blank screen after getting past the Thinkpad splash screen.
Curious, I than installed the 32 bit onto a flashdrive and then attempted to boot it one the two 64 bit machines and it did the same thing, just blinked on an empty screen.
For comparison I also installed LMDE, antiX, Bodhi,, Crunchbang ++., Exe GNU on the same 3 machines uing 64 and 32 bit versions accordingly and they all worked.
Clearly the issue is with Q4OS and their support is of no help. A shame as I really like what I saw when running from live mode on 64 bit.
I don't mind a few glitches on old hardware but this is untenable given other Debian derivative are able to install and boot.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2024-02-12
Votes: 8
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The Q4OS distribution stands out as the premier choice for users seeking to harness the power of the TDE Trinity desktop environment. Built upon the robust and mature Debian Linux, Q4OS boasts exceptional stability. Notably lightweight, it refrains from inundating users with superfluous software that may be extraneous to their requirements. However, it may prove less suitable for novice users, notwithstanding its straightforward installation process, as it is tailored towards more proficient users who appreciate the advantages of a traditional user interface within an operating system. In essence, Q4OS caters to those who harbor reservations regarding the design philosophy underpinning GNOME3/KDE[4-5-6], instead offering the functionality of the modernized KDE3.5 while adhering to contemporary standards. For individuals seeking this unique blend of heritage and innovation, Q4OS emerges as the quintessential distribution. Additionally, Q4OS presents users with the option of the KDE Plasma environment. However, the primary allure of Q4OS lies in its provision of the most optimized TDE experience that you can find today.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.4
Rating: 1
Date: 2024-02-06
Votes: 1
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I have tried to install Q4OS on 3 different PCs. and could not get it "run" any of the three laptops I tried it on, despite success in Live mode.. On the other hand Zorin, FatDog, FossaPup, Mint Cinnamon, Zorin-Lite, Linux Lite, Mint Xfce, Mint LMDE,MX-Linux, Mx-Linux Fluxbox, Bodhi, antiX, Debian LXLE, Debian XFCE all worked in live mode AND installed without issue. I tried to get help in the Q4OS forum but week passed with no response. Just sad, Q4OS appears to have a poor installer and be a distro with poor support.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.4
Rating: 7
Date: 2024-01-14
Votes: 2
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Ein feines Betriebssystem, um alte Hardware weiterverwenden zu können und vor dem Schrottplatz zu bewahren. Leider ist es das auch schon, auf einem mordernen Arbeits- und Produktivsystem würde ich nicht verwenden
Ich habe es auf einem alten Eee-PC mit 32-Bit Atom-Prozessor und 1 GB Arbeitsspeicher installiert, den ich ausschliesslich fürs Online-Banking nutze. Da läuft es absolut stabil und flüssig ohne Ruckler und Hänger.
A fine operating system to be able to continue using old hardware and save it from the scrap heap. Unfortunately, that's all it is, I wouldn't use it on a modern work and production system
I have installed it on an old Eee PC with a 32-bit Atom processor and 1 GB of RAM, which I use exclusively for online banking. It runs absolutely stable and smoothly without any stutters or hangs.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-12-25
Votes: 45
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Ich nutze Q4OS (Trinity i386) in VirtualBox ausschließlich für online banking. Basis ist ein TUXEDO InfinityBook mit Tuxedo2 OS.
Keine Email, kein Surfen, keine andere Webseite - nur die der Bank. Firefox löscht beim Beenden alle Spuren, Cookies etc.
Ich denke das Vorgehen sollte relativ sicher sein und nach langen Suchen ist Q4OS für mich das beste Betriebssystem dafür. Aussehen und Einstellbarkeit sind zweitrangig, dafür habe ich ja das Grundsystem.
Also volle Punktzahl für mich
I use Q4OS (Trinity i386) in VirtualBox exclusively for online banking. The basis is a TUXEDO InfinityBook with Tuxedo2 OS.
No email, no surfing, no other website - only the bank's website. Firefox deletes all traces, cookies etc. when closing.
I think the procedure should be relatively safe and after a long search, Q4OS is the best operating system for me. Appearance and adjustability are secondary, that's why I have the basic system.
So full marks for me
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-12-21
Votes: 18
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A Lean, Mean, Customization Machine
For users who crave a lightning-fast and rock-solid desktop experience, Q4OS stands out as a shining champion. Unlike bloated distros overflowing with pre-installed fluff, Q4OS takes a refreshingly minimalist approach. It starts with a lean core, armed with powerful tools to craft a system perfectly tailored to your needs. This philosophy delivers astonishing results.
Q4OS boasts exceptional performance. Even on aging hardware, it breathes life into sluggish machines, transforming them into nimble workhorses. This magic stems from its efficient design, ensuring resources are laser-focused on your tasks, not unnecessary processes. Say goodbye to lag and hello to smooth sailing!
Furthermore, Q4OS prioritizes stability. Built on the rock-solid foundation of Debian, it runs like a dream, rarely faltering or needing intervention. You can install it today and rely on it for years to come, receiving regular security updates that keep your system safe and sound.
Yet, Q4OS doesn't sacrifice usability for speed. Its user interface, with the choice between the classic Trinity and modern KDE Plasma, is intuitive and user-friendly. The built-in tools empower customization like no other. You can easily trim the system to its bare essentials, adding only the applications you truly need. This empowers you to create a desktop that feels truly yours, perfectly optimized for your unique workflow.
While the community might not be the largest, it's passionate and helpful. You'll find extensive documentation and resources to guide your journey, and the friendly community is always ready to lend a hand.
In conclusion, Q4OS is not just a Linux distribution; it's an experience. It's for users who value efficiency, stability, and control. If you're tired of bloated systems and yearn for a lean, mean, customization machine, Q4OS awaits. Give it a spin, and experience the magic of a truly personalized desktop.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.4
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-12-08
Votes: 10
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I have tried numerous OS installations for my old 32bit HP laptop. This downloads quickly, installs without problem or complicated issues. When running on my laptop it is fast, responsive and ideal for typing, surfing the internet and email. It also worked great on my lenovo thinkpads. It is very intuitive at every stage and the whole OS just forms a nice logical unit. One can choose KDE, but I have found the Trinity desktop environment very light and easy, so I just stick to it. There are also some small look changes one can make that is rather nice.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.4
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-12-05
Votes: 4
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excellent distro, light and powerful, i installed 5.4 trinity/acquarius 32 bit on my 2004 packard bell laptop...installed midori as browser and everything ok....did not get working stuff using 7/XP or lubuntu/xubuntu/puppy and still q4os supplies 32 bit support and in any case underneath there is all the power and solidity of Debian
just a small problem with the wifi configuration that I had to do from terminal
i upgraded from 3.13 which i installed years ago and still runs smoothly and seems much improved to me
good work!
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.3
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-11-10
Votes: 14
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My device:
Dell Inspirion 9400, a top of the line heavy laptop computer called a ¨desktop replacement¨, because it is very solidly built and it is very heavy.
Intel Core2 Duo (August 2006)
Designed for Windows XP + ¨Windows Vista Capable¨:)
The computer was manufactured in January 2007, so it is almost 17 years old.
I switched from XP to Lubuntu 32 bit in 2018, but that is because I assumed it was 32 bit, when it was in fact a 64 bit.
It was running slow with Lubuntu 32 bit, but it was very stable, and I used it as a daily driver for at least two years.
When Lubuntu stopped 32 bit support, I loaded Linux Lite, which worked beautifully.
Because the graphics could not work with what I needed to do for my job, I had to retire it.
I finally decided I would try and rescue it and see if I might try another distribution.
I plan to use it as my living room music computer.
I tried to install latest version of Linux Lite, because when I tried an update of Linux Lite after having stored the laptop for a year, it did not want to update. Linux Lite installation froze several times despite me trying various ways to get it to ¨learn¨ and ¨unfreeze¨ itself.
I put Bodhi in it, and it would not even get off the ground.
I tried Q4OS, and behold, it works.
I am giving it a 9, not because it is so wonderful, but because if I give it an 8, it will be akin to Linux Lite, but Linux Lite no longer works with it, and I cannot rate it lower than Bodhi, since Bodhi did not work.
So 9 it is:)
I have been using Linux as my daily driver since 2009, so I guess I am no longer a newbie:)
I only use Windows or Apple if it is forced upon me by someone else.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.3
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-11-06
Votes: 8
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I installed Q4OS on my 32 bit old desktop with only 2 GB ram and it is running very well. it automatically detected my epson printer and scanner I am using latest chromium browser on it and my web browsing experience is quiet good my browser is running very fast and web page download speed is also very good. Q4OS linux is very fast and intelligent linux distros. I tested many other linux distros but I wanted such distro that is minimal,fast and stable. I had only one problem with it that when I installed it with windows on dual boot system my grub menu showed me two choices to boot from either windows or Q4OS but after upgrade when I restarted my system I was offered no choice to boot from and directly booted into Q4OS. overall I am enjoying Q4OS ...
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.3
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-10-22
Votes: 61
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The only Linux distribution to work flawlessly on my Alienware laptop, M15R7. All other distros (including plain Debian) caused my computer to lock up after installing the priority Nvidia drivers for the RTX-3070 graphics card.
The open-source, nonpriority drivers worked fine on most distros. Nobara was the second longest-lasting with the priority drivers, lasting a few weeks before it went to a black screen and wouldn’t boot up. Ubuntu lasted a few days. I tried almost every distro in the top 100 on Distrowatch, but I couldn't get anything else to work.
Normally, Debian or openSUSE are exceptional, just not with my current laptop. If you have compatibility issues, especially with a Nvidia graphics card, I'd recommend checking out Q4OS.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-09-26
Votes: 16
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This distro should be among the top three right behind(even with)MX linux. Very ingenious implementation of Debian and KDE, Stable fast not overly polished so it gets up and goes quick. It is also hard to break, as I have installed on family members & friends, who are newbies and it stands up and takes a licking and keeps on ticking. I also use this distro as a rescue OS which it does really well also, another good use is as a music storage/player which it does very well. I did not give it a ten because I believe there is no such thing as a 10, as that would be perfect and no distros are perfect, but Q4OS is close. Thank you devs.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 5
Date: 2023-09-21
Votes: 5
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Ran with TDE.
DIstro seems good at first. Easy and fast install.
Love the interface. It's a shame other distros try to be "modern" (i.e. ugly and flat... did I mention ugly?).
The system seems pretty fast, although, granted, my computer is still relatively beefy despite its age.
My good experiences end here.
Upon booting up I am told that the system can automatically install NVIDIA drivers for me. Okay! Let's do it. I restart and... the system is broken and will no longer boot. I have to reinstall. Okay. This happens the next time... and the next time after that. So, I just went with the preinstalled driver. Some things lag because of that, but at least I can use the computer.
The system experiences screen tearing, and I'm not sure how to fix that. Oh, well.
I try to find a Youtube downloader in Synaptic package manager. The first one does not work at all. I mark it for a complete removal and move on to youtube-dl. I use it in the terminal and... it doesn't work. So I close the terminal and look online for what to do. I open the terminal again and try to use Youtube-dl. The command is not found anymore... what?
Last but not least, I'm usually not one to cry, "Bloat!" but this distro has plenty of unnecessary inclusions. Why are there THREE file managers? One shortcut opens up Dolphin, another opens up Konqueror. And if you search for "file manager" in the menu, there comes up Krusader alongside the other two! Which one am I supposed to use???
This distro has great potential, but there's a lot of fixing to do before it's usable.
P.S. I also tried the installation alongside Windows 10, and it didn't work.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 6
Date: 2023-09-15
Votes: 5
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Ran Q4OS in live mode and really loved it. Q4OS is a Linux distro that is easy for old Windows users (Win7, Win8 WinXP etc) to migrate to. The added bonus is Q4OS is light on resources and breathes new life into old computers.
I was so impressed after trying Q4OS in Live mode I went to install it and things quickly went south. Simply put the install completed successfully but Q4OS was not able to come up and no assistance was forth coming from the support forum even after many weeks. if you look at the forum you will see many issues not only remain unsolved but never replied to at all,
So if you are a desktop user you are apparently on your own with Q4OS. That is a shame but the large number of posts in the Q4OS support forum that are not replied to tell the tale. So the functioning distro is a 9, but the support is a 3 which averages to a 6.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-09-13
Votes: 2
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Good Distro!
It's the best Distro that i've ever Seen!
I've installed in Virtual Box and find it good, so i've installed on an old Toshiba Satellite with Windows 2000 as factory os, And it was running fast on 512mb ram!
After that, i've installed it on my Packard Bell dot s and Loved it! This old Netbook is running very fast and finally i can use it AS my daily Driver! Than i've translated it to my language in GitHub, and the pull-request was merged in 10 minutes! It's based in Debian bookworm, and installs very fast.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 5
Date: 2023-09-05
Votes: 5
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Summary:
Q4OS hits the mark in so many ways. For those who are fortunate to get a clean install and boot it likely is a wonderful distro. Where Q4OSfalls down is on the support side. Unfortunately not all installs go cleanly and then the hit or miss attitude to support becomes an issue. And while lack of support is one thing, unwarranted snarky support is another. However you can purchase support, which likely will use a more forgiving tone and therefore Q4OS may be a viable option for an office environment.
Pros:
A solid distro that mostly does exactly what it says
Light weight
Easy transition for Windows users
Cons:
Latest release uses significantly more RAM than previous versions for no discernible benefit
Buggy Windows co-existence installation
Unwarranted arrogant to rude responses by developers to users on occasion in the forum
Free support is inferior to other distros in its class
Many requests for help in the forum go unanswered
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-09-04
Votes: 2
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I used to run Q4OS on a fairly old Dell computer, but when I bought a new Dell it came with Windows 11. However are sticking wth W.11 for some time, I became more and more frustrated by its file system etc etc. So I decided I'd go back to Linux. I tried the latest versions of Q4OS and MInt Cinnamon on my old machine and decided I preferred Q4OS.
I did not want to dual boot, and to my amazement, Q4OS installed without any problems overwriting Windows 11, set-up its own Grub, and now I am booting straight into it.
It runs faster than on my old Dell, and so far everything runs without any problems. The only problem I have is that I did not remove secure boot, and discovered that it will not do a Dell System Update. However when I remove Secure boot from the bios, that will slove the problem.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-09-02
Votes: 3
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As a curious distro hopper for over 12 years, I've found Q4OS 5.2 Plasma edition a pleasant surprise.
Installation was a breeze, and once tweaked to my liking, works like a charm on a 15 year Core2 laptop.
I would recommend installing Discover, Synaptic and the Q4OS updater first.
Chromium was substituted for the Debian Firefox ESR branch and everything is sweet.
Some nice plasmoid effects ship as standard with many more available to suit you preference.
There is much more easily accessible control available without delving deep into the OS like Win10 or 11
To sum up: A solid OS with plenty of room for eyecandy (xsession error log shows nothing after two weeks of use)
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.12
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-08-12
Votes: 13
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I absolutely love it. I set mine up to look/feel like a XP/WIN7 hybrid and I've actually had people ask what version of Windows that was !
You choose when to update, and they always work. No need to restart or reinstall anything. The system just works.
I've got it running on an older MacBook Pro and my Mac Pro 5,1 from 2010 (!). Couldn't possibly feel more secure doing financial stuff.
Because of the file system, it's perfectly capable of running on the same hard disk as a regular Windows install - but this system is both faster *and* more reliable.
Only thing I would change is the ability to arrange the start menu, which is modifiable but somewhat limited... this is a rather minor criticism given the overall safety, stability and functionality of the OS.
I would recommend it to anyone. Anyone.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 5
Date: 2023-08-09
Votes: 1
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The Plasma version is okay, I guess, but I don't use Plasma because in my experience it's too buggy. I messed around with it here, and it didn't give me any issues, but also this is one of the most barebones and basic Plasma setups. And even at the Full Desktop profile, it still comes with very few apps. This is good for some people, but not for me. I think, if Q4OS only had the Plasma edition, it would be a very boring distro, not worth a look.
So I'll talk about the TDE (Trinity Desktop Environment) version here. First of all, let me say this: for my money this is the prettiest-looking desktop out there. Primarily because this is the last desktop that comes shipped with some professionally-made skeuomorphic themes from the early 2000s, the time before everything became flat and soulless. And the Q4OS team has put an incredible amount of work into this edition. The control panel, the themes, the applets, everything is pre-configured to deliver a desktop that work as well, if not better than many modern desktops.
However, I was immediately able to spot a few issues. But before I get to them, let me say something about the installation. I hate it. At first I got happy seeing how the ISO is only about 1GB in size. But my happiness flew out the window when I realized that the distro is gonna be downloading another 1-2 gigs of content DURING the installation. With my slow and unreliable internet I'd much rather risk failing the download of the ISO than failing the installation. This is much less safe in my opinion.
After installing the distro, first thing I tried to do is download a MEGASync deb file and install it. The system tried opening it with Ark instead. After spending about half an hour trying to figure it out and googling, I found out that this system lacks a GDebi Installer, and that the issue about this was raised in 2019 on the forums, and yet here we are in 2023 and it still hasn't been addressed. I'm sorry, but I consider stuff like this essential, and it's ridiculous to me that it's not pre-installed.
Next thing I realized was that you can't drag files into the Trash, whether on the desktop or on the panel. It says "Access Denied". Turns out the icons on the desktop (which also get automatically created as you install new software) are Global Icons, which cannot be dragged or renamed for some reason, but can be deleted.
Another problem I noticed is there doesn't seem to be any Bluetooth app pre-installed. I get that this and the previous problem are kinda to be expected with a retro-style distro like this, but they make it really hard to recommend for a general use.
Like, it's fun to poke around in for nostalgia, but I don't see how it can compete with most distros out there.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-07-24
Votes: 5
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I want to offer my suggestion on dual-boot with Q4OS. I installed Q4OS KDE desktop on a 128GB USB SanDisk drive. I booted the Q4OS USB drive on a HP Intel Core I3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, WiFi, and Windows 11 in S mode OS laptop. After login, I ran "sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y". I rebooted and GRUB showed both OS in the boot menu. Of course, Q4OS was listed first and Windows 11 second. It booed both OSes from the GRUB menu. I removed the Q4OS USB key from the laptop, and Windows 11 booted as normal.
It is true Q4OS wants to be exclusive! This solution avoids a separate partition on the SSD. Plus you can use the Q4OS USB Drive on any computer, just make sure you do the updates from the computer listed in GRUB. This solution may not be for everyone, but it is an alternative for me.
I loved the Q4OS KDE Plasma desktop. It appears to be fast and stable on old and new computes.Try it, you may like it too!
Q4OS KDE Desktop User
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 6
Date: 2023-07-20
Votes: 3
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Have used q4os since version 3.xx on my main desktop computer, in a dual boot setup. It always performed perfectly! This latest version of 5.2 is a real Prima Dona, however. It is based on Debian Bookworm 12. so has smoothed out some previous rough edges - that is commendable. It also runs very quickly on my 10 year old laptops. I am quite impressed with the improvements to KDE as well.
Now I said it was a Prima Dona, and by that I mean this version doesn't play nicely with other boot scenarios. Oh, it will install alongside whatever OS you have, but then when you reboot the machine, the only option is Q4OS 5.2! Can I fix the boot manager? - Sure! But then, why should that be necessary for such an OS? All the other popular distros play fairly - Linux Mint, Ubuntu, Debian, Peppermint, and so on. Guess for now will have to regard this Q4os bug as a feature.
So, If you are ready to use Q4os exclusively, or want to tinker with it to work with other distros, I say it is a great choice. If not, I would look at some others first.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 8
Date: 2023-07-16
Votes: 3
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My new OS ! Once we got the 'feel' of a different OS, Q4 quickly became my new 'favorite'.
Difficult ? NO is the best answer.
The desktop was easily customized. Its magic how Q4 folks assumed all my favorite & correct settings !
The KDE software ? had to be learned the hard way.
Favorites - Konsole, Kate, Kfind, Ksnip are just one-click away on the tool-bar.
Other one-click favorites include Thunar, AbiWord, SMplayer, XNview, Falkon browser.
The Windows-button shows Software Discover, and System Settings ,,,, thats it !
The complete application menu is rarely used.
Performance issues ? none.
This is a 16GB APPLE 27" iMAC. Most everything is one-blink away !
This new Debian seems to 'pause' while shuffling many files with Thunar. Not noticed with other apps.
I have removed 'linked-library-shortcuts' and the problem seems abated.
Library-shortcuts allow multi-partitions to 'appear' as local-librarys. I call it "mirror-magic" (its not real) !
Problems ? Only 1.... once.
The VLC video player auto-magically decides to shift to FULL-BLACK-SCREEN,
Lost keyboard & mouse. Power-OFF works. Re-boot & remove VLC.
Cause ? APPLE iMAC video processors are NOT all the same. Tough luck.
The same version VLC runs fine on my other old iMAC.
Futures ? Q4 is already an 8 !
Currently toying with KDE Konnect on a cellphone & the iMAC.
Konnect integrates many phone functions with Q4 using WiFi (no USB fumbling needed).
I hope to step # 1-fone-foto, 2-voice-to-text the foto info, 3-xfer the foto & text to Q4, 4-SQL text into foto-base.
Can we get up to 9 ? I think so. If Q4os stripped away MOST all user-applications, like players, browsers, offices, games, converters, utilitys, etc, etc, leaving just Discover, think of the time spent getting rid of 'stuff' I'll never use.
The best way to play ! Good game guys !
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-07-15
Votes: 3
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I have installed Q4OS version 5, 2 on a 12 year old laptop with 2 x 2GHZ Intel Celeron CPUs, 4GB RAM, 500MB hard disk, Ethernet and WI-fi interface. I have installed the KDE Plasma desktop with Darktable, IDLE3, and Xboard. Despite the increase in RAM usage, Q4OS 5.2 seems to run faster and more stable than previous versions of Q4OS.I am using Q4OS 5.2 as a daily driver for this old laptop.
I am happy with the performance and love the KDE desktop. The one factor that sold me is the fact that this is a Debian Stable Linux distribution. I have tried Arch and Fedora, but this laptop configuration seems to love Debian, who am I to say no to this relationship:-)
Thank you Q4OS!
Happy Q4OS 5.2 Linux User
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 8
Date: 2023-07-10
Votes: 2
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I just reviewed the 4.12 version on 2023-06-14 and gave it a 10. Sadly with the release of 5.2 we find as more RAM hungry distro that is noticeably slower. I ave no idea what that is about but it went from 296 MB RAM at idle to 547 MB at idle for the Trinity desktop.
At that weight you should also look at Komander which weighs in at 485 MB RAM running XFCE and is essentially a Windows 7 knockoff that comes fully loaded out of te box and is very fast.
QNOS is a great distro but it just ate some RAM for no discernible benefit.
tfb
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.2
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-07-08
Votes: 5
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Absolutely stunning.
This is the best Linux OS I have tested so far. It is fast and is stunning!
It has everything that you will ever need and has a theme switcher that has all the Windows desktops you could ever want.
Furthermore, it lacks nothing that Windows has and if you want to install any software it is self extracting which is a dream to a Windows user.
Very happy with this version, everything looks modern and simply works.
I will be making a donation as this is a level above the rest.
Brilliant work guys.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.12
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-06-25
Votes: 3
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Great distro for old PCs and conservative users.
I'm using it on my old PC, where were before Windows 7 and Vista, with TDE, which is using about 200MB RAM from 4GB in iddle. KDE Plasma is working well on this distro, too, no bugs and bloatware, so it's using about 500-600MB RAM with gadgets on desktop (I'm using only clocks, calendar and CPU/RAM usage bar).
About installation:
The Q4OS is using graphics installer, if you have live version or installation version with KDE Plasma, the Trinity installation version is using good old interface, which was used in older versions of Debian (some editions are using in nowadays) and in Ubuntu 4.10
About Trinity:
HW requirements are quite similar to Windows XP requirements, so 20 years PC will be running on this distro great. Interface is similar to this system, too, because it's based on KDE 3.5, which was released in 2005 and KDE is looking similar to Windows interface. But what has Q4OS comparing with other distros with TDE is XP menu style and installer setup, which is very similar to installer setup in Windows. It would be great, if this installer setup could be used for every .DEB package, not only for few apps, which are listed in special program.
Only thing, which is missing in Q4OS, is GUI installer for packages, so you need to install it if you don't use terminal for packages installation. The second one is gamemode preinstalled, but it's small detail and this is not gaming distro.
Result:
It's great OS for every user, especially for users using old machines and conservative users, who are prefer truly PC interface than PC/tablet remix with big buttons, which is used by most newer DEs.
Based on Debian is good choise for 32-bit support.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.0-testing
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-06-14
Votes: 8
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Wow, I installed Q4OS with the Trinty desktop and I am stunned. If you are looking to breathe new life into old hardware this is it. I was looking for an alternative to the detestable antiX and came across Bodhi and Q4OS, both excellent choices for older hardware.
At idle with wifi connectivity free -m indicated it came in at 293 MB (as a Live key) so knock off a few MB if you install it.
While Bodhi has a more modern elegant looking desktop Q4OS seems positioned more like a throwback to the stable and practical days of Windows 95, Windows NT and Windows XP, and that is meant as a compliment. For those of us who do not like the modern trend of forcing our PC and laptop desktops to mimic smartphones Q4OS is a comforting environment that was designed for days when the workstation was king, not some real estate restricted scrolling mess that modern desktops have become.
But appearances aside Q4OS has some great utility features like its profiler, that is useful, functional, and customizable. Q4OS also has some tricks up its sleeve to install on Windows that other distros should consider.
All that aside it is fast. I tested this on a IBM Thinkpad T61p from 2007 with 2 GB of RAM. Yep on a 16 year old machine and Q4OS was fast, no problem with YouTube running Chromium.
Q4OS also has utilities to tweak its themes etc that is easy to apply.
So if you like the productivity of desktops of the past and blinding speed in a low resource environment in a stable environment try Q4OS. If you like a more elegant look and feel try Bodhi. Even lighter, checkout SliTaz, but Q4OS is slick,someone but a lot of effort into a distro that should be better known.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.12
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-05-26
Votes: 9
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This distro is exactly what I have been looking for(MX stable quality KDE with more speed). I have to give 9 out of ten because no distro is perfect, but this is great like MX or mint but faster and more responsive. I am in the process of putting Q4OS on all my older computers, while I have MX or Mint on the newer computers. Its intuitive KDE with almost the responsiveness of Artix, and it is a kick. The only very slight downside is I wish the repo were bigger, this distro is fun and right there with MX and Mint for quality.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.0-testing
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-05-17
Votes: 8
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I stumbled upon this distro about a year and a half ago, just distro hopping. I migrated from KDE Neon, mainly because it updates like 5 times a day, was annoying. Q4OS simply works, is light on system resources, and I have yet to have a crash on it in the 1 1/2 years I have been using it. Detected all my hardware with no problems as well too. Am using a Lenovo laptop with a core I3 processor and 4 gigs of ram, and it runs super fast. This is the first review I have written on a distro, and that is saying something! It is definitely worth a try!
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 5.0-testing
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-04-04
Votes: 11
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This newer testing release is running very well on my pc.
It's like a stable lighter version of some of the more bloated Plasma releases that are available atmo.
Installs ok apart from some grub issues but i fixed that from within my other Linux i had installed.
I think the problem might have been down to having too many new and old leftovers from previous OS installs.
Anyway ,i had the desktop up and running pretty quick ,doesn't come with too much installed which i think is a plus point.
Though it does have the same useful Welcome Screen with easy click options for installing extra software and drivers ,e.t.c.
I did run into a problem trying to install the offered Nvidia drivers but devs said they will be fixing that soon.
Well ,it is a testing release so things like that are to be expected.
Overall a great OS and now my daily driver ,will be looking forward to future improvements .
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.11
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-03-23
Votes: 13
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I have tried many smaller distros for my old laptops. This is the only one that installed correctly and easily and that I have managed to update on both 32bit and 64bit machines. I just use it as is and it has been stable the entire time. It also works well with my HP printer. I use it on an old 32bit HP computer and Lenovo laptops. I like it's trinity desktop and with the look changer one is able to have a fresh look. I like things simple and working. For my purposes I give it ten out of ten. Love it, love it, love it!
NV
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.11
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-03-06
Votes: 11
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Q4OS is a rather interesting Debian derivative which puts little strain on hardware and can function equally well at an introductory level for most newbies or for more complicated use for experienced Linux users and can work with both ARM and X86 form factor processors. I have used it on big desktops and on an old laptop long ago with no major issues. Its Trinity desktop is a bit tired looking, but it does work and in a KDE Plasma form it has a crisper look at the expense of a bit more processor power, but still works nicely.
I will give a somewhat lengthy example of the distribution's utility here:
I recently got a very good buy on an Alldocube Tablet PC which I did not expect to use with Windows and I rapidly ran into problems trying to load it with Linux software of unexpected forms. The tablet has a nice look and size and can support itself with its own built in support which is not dependent on the detachable keyboard using the Pogo interface. I was hoping to make this into a workable Linux tablet and tried some smaller form distributions or distribution-like settings. Puppy could function byt was awkward and not terribly efficient on the unit if loaded. Touchscreen function was inconsistent. In the near-distribution form, AntiX was unable to establish a wireless connection and had no audio and could not really move beyond an Ethernet connection. Fedora was tried in a stripped-down version with audio only with headphones and at low volume and had problems with not being able to be updated despite easy wireless setup that made the AntiX setup look pathetic.
Manjaro XFCE was tried next and gave horrid flickering of the Intel UHDgraphics630 card which was negotiated poorly in AntiX and well in Fedora. While flickering, I could guess a location and the touchscreen would mostly respond where the screen was blacked out rather bizarrely. I managed to push the work on this with no resolution and no good sound and poor wireless function thought better than with AntiX.
Bunsen would not load well either with flickering of the screen and no sound and the camera was a no go as well.
After this comes Q4OS as I am not a big Ubuntu fan and did not want to play with Lite or with Lubuntu with its formidable content.
Q4OS was not really known much for use in tablets that I could see, but it was reliable Debian and Debian has played better with Intel UHD graphics600 series so I gave it a try. Q4OS loaded easily and fairly quickly, picked up the graphics as well as the wireless and even had the camera function picked up. Touchscreen was no problem either. The installation was the least problematic, though audio remains an issue. No function can be found of the Realtek/Intel series which is recognized but not easily teased forward despite the use of Alsamixer and Pipewire. I have not tried to back up to OSS or other audio drivers. Use of DKMS has not made any difference either. I hope that firmware update or Kernel incorporated updates can bring the audio functionality to some end, but I can always add on a USB audio card system. Perhaps I can use a small headset unit such as Plugable for headphone port action using the snd-usb-audio driver which I have used before or the similar UGreen interface. Both have worked reliably for others I have known with Linux or even with less sophisticated Raspberry Pi computers.
With Q4OS, the poor support of this PC tablet has been relatively easy to manage.
I find Q4OS has reasonable function from its KDE Plasma base and the substantial 8 GB RAM of the PC Tablet should be able to work fairly nicely as a tablet with good power, even with the large KDE footprint. Q4OS has been by far the easiest distribution for this purpose.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.11
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-03-05
Votes: 6
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Perfect for an old laptop, even touchpad gestures run out of the box, a feature never before seen and I have tried more than 20 distros.
Trinity desktop looks very tidy, might be my 2nd favourite after XFCE.
Integration of Konqueror with many other apps is interesting, but I'm leaning to not using it too much.
Only downside is that bootloader install is more confusing than usual.
I probably wouldn't install this OS on modern machine, but on old hardware I haven't seen better and trust me, I have tried many distros.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.11
Rating: 9
Date: 2023-02-22
Votes: 3
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It was recommended to me by a forum member. At first, though, I picked the 64-bit edition with KDE. It starts blinding fast. I don't know what the developers did to the D.E. but this is a pleasant surprise. It looks a bit plaid compared to the later Plasmas but I don't care, I dislike animations and desire quick fast over shenanigans. No problems installing Wine and using other programs. I wish I could write more about it but it's boring in a good way. One hitch is that it shuts down somewhat slowly; soon after I click "OK" on shutdown confirmation it holds for several seconds. On this installation I skipped the Desktop Profiler, couldn't be arsed with it to give me junk like Libreoffice and VLC while there are much-better programs.
Later I decided to take up on that forum member's offer, grabbing the ISO for the 32-bit operating system with Trinity. (It has to be installed and uses a version of Debian installer.) It doesn't ask for network options but that is handled in the first time the user boots successfully into the system. This OS supports Wifi which is a big plus. Nice desktop; my first try with it was supposed to be RebornOS 64-bit but I had installation problems with that. A reason why I didn't want to keep it was because it seems to use Konqueror as file manager, but I'm not used to it. It behaves a lot like Windows98, the desktop menu also. On Trinity desktop I couldn't find the way to disable touchpad tap-to-click (doesn't seem to carry "synclient" program) and it was clunky having to visit the terminal to run "xrandr" only to lower the screen brightness from full burst. I don't recommend going to "System Administration/Monitor Settings" because it asks for the user password before setting anything in there, and if you do it wrong in the "gamma" screen it could totally screw up the view! Therefore I accepted the Desktop Profiler option to move up to KDE Plasma v5.20. However it could take at least an hour and copies over 120 thousand files into your disk!
Running "update-initramfs" takes a really long time and the "distro update" could do it three times or more. Just don't fiddle with "swap" partition, you have been warned, it's not like with Arch Linux where if the UUID of "swap" is changed it only requires editing "/etc/fstab". I wish Debian's developers did something about it.
For the 32-bit installation, if Q4OS isn't going to be the only OS put on the internal HDD do not pick "guided entire disk" partitioning from the installer because it creates only two partitions, the main one and "swap" which might be too small, and it would require assistance from GRUB for another distro to be able to boot into it. For me the install failed at bootloader stage; at this point the user should select "Continue without bootloader" from Debian installer main menu. Someone else would have deducted points for it.
by mnrv-ovrf-year-c
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.11
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-02-14
Votes: 11
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Previously I tested Q4OS within the Parallels virtualization environment on an iMac, and it ran beautifully. A more interesting test came when I installed it using the Q4OS “Windows installer” on a $300 Fujitsu laptop (Fujitsu A3510).
I was skeptical – but it works like a dream. Everything works as promised. I have Q4OS (with the Cinnamon desktop environment installed afterwards) running in its own 48 GB virtual partition (let’s call it that: a virtual partition) but have full access to the Windows section of the SSD drive. Bluetooth, WiFi, everything worked immediately.
This is wonderful. This OS will remain on this computer!
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.11
Rating: 10
Date: 2023-02-04
Votes: 8
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Awesome, I use 32 bit and 64 bit version. Q4OS 32 bit on an old Dell Optiplex GX260 functionality absolutely top, 64 bit version on several old PCs. flexible and easy to find the functionality of the operating system and stable as a mountain. the websites of Q4OS there is a lot of information and you will find what you are wondering about, I think Q4OS is the best and I recommend this distro, awesome (Best simple and nice looking alternative to Windows XP/7/8/10/11)
Q4OS and Linux in general are good for the most of our computers keep on working.
Norton.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.11
Rating: 1
Date: 2023-01-10
Votes: 3
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Disappointing and frustrating experience especially after reading many good reviews. I was unable to install the live ISO on bare metal. Tried downloading the ISO (from several of their download links) and flashing it to two different flash drive I verified are not faulty. Used Balena Etcher to flash ISO to thumb drive. Each time the OS tried to load it got stuck on the black screen with the boot text. It would start to load and then just hang. Concluded something is wrong with the ISO that is posted.
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.10
Rating: 9
Date: 2022-12-11
Votes: 33
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Best simple and nice looking alternative to Windows XP/7/8/10/11. Better that Linux Mint (that I love and was using before) because of the effort to make it look like Windows, by using great KDE themes. Prefered the full install to get Office suite, etc. Just select the win10 in parameters and boom, system looks like Windows (Though it works differently, like single click open a file).
I disagree with people below that find it slow. It is NOT, and is working perfectly fine out of the box.
Discover is the very simple app market and using deb package is simple also.
This is now my primary OS. Win11 is on a second partition for 1 proprietary program I cannot yet use in Linux (I need to learn alternative).
I use dual boot. Files are on a shared partition (in NTFS ane encrypted by Bitlocker). This encrypted partition is seamlessly accessible via Q4OS (just enter the bitlocker partition password at Q4OS start).
It is not perfect, I had to install Segoe UI font to improve the win10/11 look. Some glitches happen sometimes. That' OK.
I will not come back to windows as my first OS. And I have saved some money by refurbishing some old computers with Q4OS, like my Acer C720P tactile chromebook...Everything works fine. It's a bit slow, but this is a Celeron PC of 2015 !
Q4OS and Linux in general are good for making the most of our computers and not recycling them because win11 demands it !
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Project: Q4OS
Version: 4.10
Rating: 10
Date: 2022-12-05
Votes: 31
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Q4Os for me is being the best working distro for soft programming for commercial automation. I recommend this distro to those new to linux.
I'm a free pascal programmer (lazarus) and this distro works for me a lot, along with the postgresql database.
Q4Os being based on Debain my line of learning was very easy on how to configure and install dependency packages and other production applications. I believe newcomers as soon as they see an easy to use Q4Os environment will recommend it to more people.
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