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World of open source code is based on sharing ideas and innovations above common interest. Certainly the best examples are Linux distributions among which the most popular, Ubuntu, exclude itself by its simplicity and appliance for regular user. This Debian derived, Linux-based operating system with Gnome GUI (Graphical User Interface) has alot of alternatives for those who want something different.
There are two main graphical interfaces under Linux, Gnome and KDE, with Xfce on the third place. Almost all Linux distributions use one of these three GUI, or combinations of them ( Gnome in Ubuntu, RedHat...KDE in Kubuntu, Mandriva...). Each Linux distribution use more or less the same smaller tools for everyday usage, independent programs like OpenOffice and Firefox are standard choice. Main difference between them is their installation procedure and configuration tools. These differences could determinate your favorite.
1. Kubuntu 7.10
 After first versions of Ubuntu with its Gnome GUI, it was only the matter of time when will the second of two main GUIs, KDE, receive its distributions under the same shelter. Installation procedure is identical as the one in Ubuntu, but it has its own tools for managing system, including Adept manager for package management. Not all programs from Ubuntu are included in Kubuntu, but some programs based on KDE GUI gives the user more freedom then the equivalent in Gnome. Simplicity in using Linux makes Kubuntu the follower of Ubuntu philosophy, but advanced users will have possibility to take more control.
Kernel: 2.6.24
GUI: KDE
LiveCD: yes
Based on: Debian
Price: free
2. PCLinuxOS 2007
 Installation of PCLinuxOS 2007 is different than installation of Kubuntu, but it also comes from LiveCD environment and it is as well simple. Although it is similar to Mandriva Linux, PCLinuxOS also uses modified versions of configuration tools Drake. RPM packages are the same as those in SuSe, Mandriva or RedHat, but PCLinuxOS has Synaptic package manager that provides a single frontend for installing, updating and removing software from it. This Linux distribution is good Kubuntu competitive, with disadvantage of relatively small number of programmers working on it.
Kernel: 2.6.18
GUI: KDE
LiveCD: yes
Based on: Mandriva
Price: free
3. Mandriva One 2008
 Mandriva is one of the "old" Linux distributions (earlier known as Mandrake) which is, possibly, the best adapted distribution in a new trend of "simplicity in using" Linux. The latest 3D-accelerated desktop technologies, fresh configuration tools Drake and good adjusted KDE GUI makes impression of extraordinarily. LiveCD installation is opponent to Ubuntu installation and very similar to PCLinuxOS installation. Mandriva One 2008 is one attractive and good finalized Linux distribution with just a few places to confuse less competent users.
Kernel: 2.6.20
GUI: KDE
LiveCD: yes
Based on: Red Hat
Price: free
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