Deepin 23

Basic Information

• Model: Deepin 23
• Version: 23 (with a notable 23.1 update released in April 2025)
• Release Date: August 15, 2024
• Minimum Requirements:
  • Processor: 2.0GHz multi-core or higher frequency processor
  • Memory: 8GB or more physical memory recommended, 4GB minimum
  • Hard Disk: At least 64GB of available hard disk space, SSD recommended
  • Display: 1920x1080 or higher resolution recommended
• Supported Operating Systems: Deepin 23 supports various hardware architectures including x86_64 (AMD64), ARM64, RISC-V, and LoongArch64. It is based on Debian.
• Latest Stable Version: Deepin 23.1 (as of April 2025)
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly stated; ongoing updates and kernel integrations suggest continuous maintenance.
• End of Life Date: Not explicitly stated.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not explicitly stated.
• License Type: Open source
• Deployment Model: Direct installation on physical hardware or within a virtual machine. Supports dual-boot configurations with other operating systems like Windows and macOS.

Technical Requirements

• RAM: 8GB or more is recommended for optimal performance, with a functional minimum of 4GB.
• Processor: A 2.0GHz multi-core processor or higher (e.g., Intel Pentium IV 2GHz or equivalent AMD) is required.
• Storage: A minimum of 64GB of free disk space is necessary for installation, with 65GB often cited for custom installations. Installation on a Solid State Drive (SSD) is recommended for improved responsiveness.
• Display: A screen resolution of 1920x1080 or higher is recommended for the best visual experience.
• Ports: Standard PC ports are supported. USB ports are required for installation via bootable media.
• Operating System: Deepin 23 is the operating system itself, designed to run on compatible hardware.

Analysis of Technical Requirements

Deepin 23's technical requirements reflect its focus on delivering a visually rich and fluid user experience. The recommendation for 8GB RAM and an SSD indicates that the distribution is optimized for modern hardware to ensure smooth operation of its Deepin Desktop Environment (DDE) and integrated applications. While it may function on lower specifications, the optimal experience, characterized by quick boot times and responsive applications, necessitates adherence to the recommended hardware.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: Deepin 23.1, a maintenance update, is the most recent version.
• OS Support: Deepin 23 is a standalone operating system based on Debian. It supports a wide range of hardware architectures including x86_64, ARM64, RISC-V, and LoongArch64, ensuring broad compatibility with diverse computing platforms.
• End of Support Date: Specific end-of-support dates are not publicly detailed. Deepin provides regular updates, with Deepin 23.1 integrating recent Linux kernel versions (6.6/6.12), indicating ongoing development and maintenance.
• Localization: Deepin 23 offers extensive localization, supporting numerous languages including various forms of Chinese, English, French, German, Russian, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and many others.
• Available Drivers: The system provides good out-of-the-box hardware support. A built-in driver manager assists in installing proprietary drivers, particularly for NVIDIA graphics cards. Deepin 23.1 includes upgraded NVIDIA graphics drivers and Intel/AMD CPU microcode updates.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

Deepin 23 demonstrates robust support and compatibility, particularly with modern hardware and diverse CPU architectures. Its commitment to multi-architecture support and extensive language localization makes it a globally accessible operating system. The presence of a driver manager and continuous kernel updates simplifies hardware integration and ensures ongoing compatibility. While explicit long-term support dates are not readily available, the consistent release of updates and integration of newer kernels suggest a well-maintained ecosystem.

Security Status

• Security Features: Deepin 23 features an upgraded system repository for enhanced stability and security. It introduces atomic updates, allowing for system rollback in case of update failures, and the Linyaps packaging system, which isolates applications to reduce conflicts and enhance security through sandboxing. Experimental Wayland support further contributes to improved security. The independent update system provides developers with full control over software versions and patch management.
• Known Vulnerabilities: Historically, Deepin Linux has faced scrutiny regarding telemetry data collection, leading to privacy concerns among some users. However, no specific backdoors or major vulnerabilities have been widely reported in the current version.
• Blacklist Status: There is no official blacklist status. However, some users express caution due to its Chinese origin and past privacy discussions.
• Certifications: No specific security certifications are explicitly mentioned in the provided information.
• Encryption Support: As a Linux distribution, Deepin 23 is expected to support standard Linux encryption methods, such as full disk encryption during installation.
• Authentication Methods: Standard Linux authentication methods are employed.
• General Recommendations: Some technical writers and users suggest installing the Deepin Desktop Environment (DDE) on a more established and audited Linux distribution (e.g., Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora) to leverage its aesthetics while potentially mitigating perceived security risks associated with the full Deepin OS.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

Deepin 23 integrates modern security mechanisms like atomic updates and application sandboxing via Linyaps, aiming to provide a stable and secure computing environment. The adoption of Wayland also enhances display server security. Despite these advancements, historical concerns regarding data privacy and its origin continue to influence some user perceptions. While the codebase is open source, its size makes a comprehensive independent audit challenging. Users with stringent privacy requirements might consider the recommendation of using DDE on a different base distribution.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores: Specific benchmark scores are not available in the provided information.
• Real-World Performance Metrics: Deepin 23 exhibits significant performance improvements over previous versions. It features reduced boot times, quick application launches, and fluid animations. The Deepin Desktop Environment (DDE) is optimized to consume less RAM and CPU, ensuring responsiveness even on mid-range hardware (e.g., 4GB RAM and a dual-core processor). Power management for laptops has also seen improvements, including better battery optimization.
• Power Consumption: Improved power management and battery optimization are noted for laptop users.
• Carbon Footprint: Information regarding the carbon footprint of the operating system is not available.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Deepin 23 is often praised for its visually stunning and user-friendly interface, frequently compared to macOS for its aesthetic appeal. Its performance is considered "remarkably well" given its visual complexity, though it is not as lightweight as distributions utilizing desktop environments like XFCE or LXQT.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

Deepin 23 delivers a strong performance profile, marked by noticeable speed enhancements, efficient resource utilization, and a highly responsive user interface. The optimizations within DDE contribute to a smooth experience on a range of hardware, making it a viable option for users seeking both aesthetics and functionality. While direct comparative benchmarks are absent, user feedback consistently highlights its improved speed and fluidity, positioning it as a performant choice within its class.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for Deepin 23 generally highlight its aesthetic appeal and user-friendly design. Strengths frequently mentioned include its visually stunning, elegant, and polished macOS-inspired desktop environment (DDE), characterized by smooth animations and an intuitive interface. Users appreciate its good hardware compatibility, improved performance, and the integration of AI features (UOS AI). The atomic update mechanism with rollback capabilities and the Linyaps packaging system for application isolation are also seen as positive advancements. Its extensive localization and a suite of well-designed default applications contribute to a positive user experience.

Conversely, common weaknesses include historical concerns regarding security and privacy, particularly related to past telemetry data collection. The minimum installation size of 64GB is considered large by some. While AI integration is a strength, the requirement for API keys or paid accounts for certain AI models is noted as a limitation. Some users have reported minor issues such as problems with external monitor detection, occasional shutdown delays, or untranslated Chinese applications within the App Store. Customization options, while present, are sometimes perceived as less extensive compared to highly configurable desktop environments like KDE or XFCE.

Recommended use cases for Deepin 23 include users seeking a beautiful and functional alternative to Windows or macOS, individuals who prioritize a polished desktop experience, and those looking for a daily driver for general computing tasks, including image/picture editing and even gaming with proper configuration. Its AI capabilities also make it suitable for users interested in integrated intelligent features.

Summary

Deepin Technology Deepin 23 emerges as a compelling Linux distribution, distinguished by its visually stunning and highly polished Deepin Desktop Environment (DDE). Released on August 15, 2024, with a subsequent 23.1 update in April 2025, it targets users seeking an elegant and intuitive computing experience. Key strengths include its macOS-inspired aesthetics, significant performance improvements over previous iterations, and broad hardware compatibility across x86_64, ARM64, RISC-V, and LoongArch64 architectures. The introduction of atomic updates provides robust system stability and rollback capabilities, while the Linyaps packaging system enhances application isolation and security. Deepin 23 also integrates UOS AI, offering intelligent features for various tasks, and boasts extensive localization support.

However, the asset is not without its considerations. Historical concerns regarding data privacy and telemetry collection persist among some users, prompting recommendations to install DDE on alternative Linux bases for those with heightened security requirements. The minimum installation size of 64GB is substantial, and while AI integration is a highlight, its reliance on external API keys for some advanced features can be a drawback. Minor issues such as occasional display or shutdown quirks, and some untranslated applications, have also been noted.

Overall, Deepin 23 is recommended for users who prioritize a beautiful, user-friendly, and performant desktop environment. It serves as an excellent alternative for those accustomed to proprietary operating systems, offering a rich feature set and a commitment to modern technologies. Users should weigh its aesthetic and functional advantages against the historical privacy discussions and ensure their hardware meets the recommended specifications for the best experience.

Please note: The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.