The Raspberry Pi is an incredibly versatile single-board computer (SBC). There’s no shortage of operating systems (OSes) for transforming the RasPi into many different projects, ranging from a retro game console or game streaming hub to a home theatre PC (HTPC). Because of its tiny footprint, low power draw, and excellent Linux support, the Raspberry Pi makes a great lightweight desktop. While Raspberry Pi OS, Ubuntu, and Debian work well, Elementary OS is a fantastic user-friendly Linux distribution (distro). Learn how to install Elementary OS on the Raspberry Pi!
What is Elementary OS?
Elementary OS is a Linux distro based on Ubuntu LTS (Long-term Support). It’s engineered with usability at the forefront and, as such, features a low learning curve. Despite its nearly unrivaled simplicity, Elementary OS maintains the extreme customization options inherent to most Linux distributions.
What You Need to Install Elementary OS on the Raspberry Pi – Parts List
Building a desktop with Elementary OS and a Raspberry Pi is pretty straightforward. You’ll only need a few parts, including a Raspberry Pi 4 (we recommend the 4GB or 8GB RAM variant), power supply, microSD card, HDMI cable, display device (TV, monitor, or projector), internet connection, image mounting program (i.e., Etcher), and Elementary OS image for the RasPi. However, I’d also suggest a heatsink and a Raspberry Pi case. If you’re starting from scratch, the easiest method is snagging a complete Raspberry Pi starter kit. Otherwise, pick up whatever parts and pieces you need.
Raspberry Pi Elementary OS desktop parts list:
- Raspberry Pi 4 or Raspberry Pi 400 (4GB or 8GB model recommended)
- Case (optional but recommended)
- Heatsink (optional but recommended)
- Power supply
- HDMI cable
- microSD card (16GB or more)
- Display device (monitor, projector, or TV)
- Internet connection
- Image mounting software (i.e., Etcher)
- Elementary OS for the Raspberry Pi image download
- Authorized GitHub account
How to Install Elementary OS on the Raspberry Pi
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Here’s how to install Elementary OS on the Raspberry Pi 4!
- Head to the Elementary OS website
Navigate to the official Elementary OS website. Because the Raspberry Pi 4 Elementary OS image is an experimental build, it’s an early access build. So you’ll need to have an authorized GitHub account as either a sponsor donating a minimum of $10/month or a $25+ AppCenter for Everyone supporter.
- Sign up for Elementary OS Early Access Builds
Using an existing or new GitHub account, become a $10/month or more Elementary OS GitHub sponsor. Alternatively, register as a $25+ AppCenter for Everyone backer.
- Download the Elementary OS Raspberry Pi 4 Image
Once you’ve got early build access, download the Raspberry Pi 4 Elementary OS image. Click Get Early Access Builds, head to the Raspberry Pi 4 area, and hit Download.
- Install Elementary OS on a microSD Card
With your Elementary OS image downloaded, mount the installer on a microSD card. I suggest using Etcher. Fire up Etcher or your preferred image mounting software, find the Elementary OS installer on your hard drive, point Etcher to it, select your preferred boot medium in Etcher (in this case, a microSD card), and when everything looks ok, hit flash.
- Boot Into Elementary OS
When image burning completes, remove your microSD card, pop it into your Raspberry Pi 4, and power on the Pi.
- Perform Initial Setup
Next, follow the basic first-time Elementary OS configuration. First, pick your preferred language. Then, create an account: You’ll need to enter your full name, a username, and password. After that, you should be successfully logged into Elementary OS.
- Get Connected to Wi-Fi
Once you’ve booted into Elementary OS, it’s best to connect to the internet. With a hardwired connection, simply pop in your Ethernet cable. For Wi-Fi, select the network menu in the top right-hand corner of the screen (to the right of the audio icon and the left of the bell icon). Toggle on the wireless setting, pick your Wi-Fi network from the list of options, enter your password, and tap connect.
Elementary OS on the Raspberry Pi Review: A User-Friendly Linux Distro
Since it’s based on Debian, Elementary OS should prove familiar to anyone that’s used another Ubuntu- or Debian-based distro. Because of its clean, uncluttered user interface (UI), Elementary is an intuitive Linux operating system that’s equally great for Linux enthusiasts or folks switching from Windows and macOS.
I liked the attractive graphical user interface (GUI) and user-friendly design mixed with customization. For instance, there’s a handy AppCenter where you can easily find loads of different programs, including Firefox. Of course, command-line app installs work just fine. I successfully downloaded Audacity for audio editing and Kodi for multimedia playback, both of which loaded without a hitch.
Everyday tasks such as web browsing and light work productivity such as writing or editing go smoothly. Local video file playback was pretty solid for 1080p and even 4K files, with music files proving no challenge at all.
Notably, there are a few minor drawbacks. You’ve got to pay for access to an Elementary OS Raspberry Pi image, for starters. Additionally, some AppCenter programs aren’t available, which is a known issue. Furthermore, 1080p video streaming falls flat on its face with the Raspberry Pi. However, with a few software optimizations, presumably video streaming could be fixed with better hardware acceleration.
Overall, Elementary OS runs incredibly well on the Raspberry Pi. It’s simple to use out-of-the-box, makes excellent use of the Pi’s modest hardware, and boasts a decent AppCenter.
Elementary OS on Raspberry Pi FAQs
Yes! The Raspberry Pi 4 can run Elementary OS. It’s available as an experimental early access build.
Yes, Elementary OS is slightly faster than Ubuntu. Although Ubuntu isn’t resource-intensive, Elementary manages to deliver a snappier experience.
Elementary OS is one of the best Linux distros for programmers and developers. There’s a built-in Do Not Disturb mode for eliminating distractions, plus a bevy of available Linux programming tools.
How to Run Elementary OS on the Raspberry Pi: Final Thoughts
Ultimately, Elementary OS is a fantastic choice as a Raspberry Pi desktop operating system. Its Ubuntu and Debian roots make it a breeze to use while features like the AppCenter and a polished GUI lower the learning curve for new Linux users. I’m a big fan of Elementary OS on x86 laptops and desktops, so I’m eager to continue messing around with Elementary on the Raspberry Pi.
Your turn: What Raspberry Pi OSes are YOU using?
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