UPDATE: The lesser-known operating system, Armbian, is experiencing a resurgence among Raspberry Pi users as new reports confirm its compatibility and performance on various single-board computers (SBCs). This development comes as the Raspberry Pi ecosystem diversifies, with users increasingly searching for alternatives to mainstream options.
Armbian has re-emerged just as many users are looking to upgrade or optimize their aging boards. It boasts a dedicated build for the new Raspberry Pi 5, now included in the Raspberry Pi Imager, making it easier than ever to install. This is especially crucial for those still using outdated hardware, where performance improvements can make a significant difference.
Armbian offers multiple flavors, including an Ubuntu-based version featuring desktop environments like Gnome, KDE Plasma, and Xfce. Users can now effortlessly boot into a functional desktop environment, with the installation process streamlined for ease. Upon powering up their Raspberry Pi 5, users are greeted by a straightforward configuration wizard, allowing them to set up their system swiftly.
One standout feature of Armbian is its carefully curated app collection. Unlike many alternatives that come pre-loaded with bloatware, Armbian focuses on delivering essential applications, including LibreOffice, VS Code, and the powerful text editor Emacs. However, it’s notable that Armbian lacks a pre-installed web browser, a surprising omission for a modern OS. Users have reported successful installations of Chromium without complications, enhancing their browsing experience.
Despite its strengths, performance on Armbian has been a mixed bag. While the OS runs smoothly on a 4K display, users have noted sluggishness when multitasking, especially with several browser tabs open. Switching to a 1080p monitor improved responsiveness significantly, yet video playback remains a challenge. Armbian struggles with smooth 1080p video playback, often resulting in dropped frames, while 4K playback is nearly unmanageable.
Benchmark tests using Geekbench 6 indicate that Armbian holds its own against the official Raspberry Pi OS. However, its true strength lies in supporting older SBCs. Users have historically recommended Armbian for boards like Orange Pi and Banana Pi, and recent experiments with the Libra Computer La Frite demonstrate its robust compatibility. The server version of Armbian booted successfully on this lesser-known board, offering a solid alternative for users previously frustrated by other distributions.
As the landscape of Raspberry Pi and SBCs evolves, the resurgence of Armbian could signal a shift in how tech enthusiasts approach their DIY projects. Its straightforward setup process and compatibility with diverse hardware make it an attractive choice for users seeking reliability and performance without the hassle of complex installations.
WHAT’S NEXT: With Armbian gaining traction, users are encouraged to explore its potential, especially with upcoming updates expected to enhance performance further. As interest grows, the community will likely provide more support and resources for users looking to make the switch.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the SBC community continues to innovate and adapt.
