2. The Lovely KDE

Now in PCLinuxOS 2012.08 is the full KDE 4.8.3 as the default desktop, though versions with and are available as well. A "MiniMe" version, meanwhile, is "void of extra applications for those advanced users who wish to trick out their desktop with only the applications they want to install and use," the project explains. While the full KDE version weighs in at 1283 MB, the MiniMe version is just 508 MB.

3. Broad Support

Based on the Linux kernel 3.2.18.2bfs version, PCLinuxOS strives to support a broad array of devices and formats. Included in this latest release, for example, are Nvidia and ATI fglrx driver support along with multimedia playback support for many popular formats and wireless support for many network devices. Printer support, meanwhile, covers many local and networked printer devices.

4. Packed with Applications