Plus what features to look out for

Linux has grown over the decades since its initial creation into dozens and dozens of different distributions (or "distros"). Each has its own fan base, as well as a set of applications that are its particular specialty.

Linux is also popular as a portable operating system, bootable from a USB stick to turn any computer you come across into your own temporary Linux workstation. Some distros are better suited to the portable life than others, though. That's why we've put together a list of the best portable Linux distributions of the year.

If this is the first time you've come across the idea of running Linux from a USB stick instead of installing it on an internal hard drive, you might be wondering why anyone would want to do that at all.