16.6
postmarketOS, now called Nura, is a free, open-source operating system project focused on extending the life of consumer electronics.
Free planAndroidLinux
Best Privacy-Focused Operating Systems in 2026
Privacy-focused operating systems are software choices for phones, computers and self-hosted setups. This chart covers projects with support for Linux, Android, macOS, Windows, web or self-hosted use. If you want software for a Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO phone, check for an Android build first. Then compare supported platforms, licences and whether the free plan fits your needs.
26.3
Ubuntu Startup Disk Creator writes an Ubuntu image to a USB stick to make bootable installation media.
Free planLinux
36.2
Free planAndroid
- 4
Ubuntu Touch
Free planAndroidSelf-hosted6.1Free plan - 5
Linux Kodachi
Free planLinux5.8From $99 a year - 6
Qubes OS
Free planLinux5.8Free plan - 7
Whonix
Free planLinuxmacOSWindows5.5Free plan - 8
Tails
Free planLinux5.3Free plan - 9
/e/OS
AndroidWeb4.9 - 10
Kicksecure
LinuxmacOSWindows4.7 - 11
CalyxOS
Android4.6 - 12
GrapheneOS
Android4.6 - 13
LineageOS
Android4.6 - 14
Heads
Linux4.4 - 15
PureOS
Linux4.4 - 16
secureblue
Linux4.4 - 17
Septor
Linux4.4
Choosing well
Check Android support
For a Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO phone, look for an Android build before choosing a project. Android support can differ from support for desktop or web use.
Match your platform
Projects in this category can target Linux, Android, macOS, Windows, web or self-hosted setups. Pick a project that fits the device or environment you plan to use.
If you need to read or change code, check the project's licence and open-source terms.
Review the pricing
Free plans are available from projects such as CalyxOS, GrapheneOS and LineageOS. Check the project's own pricing details before installing.
iodéOS has a free plan with paid plans from €3.99 per month. Linux Kodachi has a free plan with paid access from $99.
Consider self-hosting
Self-hosted support can suit people who want to run the software on their own equipment. Confirm that the project supports your intended setup and platform before you commit.
Questions people ask
Which systems can I use on an Android phone?
Check the project for an Android build before choosing it for a Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO phone. The list includes projects with Android support.
Are privacy-focused operating systems free?
Free plans are available from projects on this list. iodéOS and Linux Kodachi also have paid options, with prices listed for those plans.
Can I run one on a computer?
Projects on the list support platforms including Linux, macOS and Windows. Check the project details for the platform you plan to use.
What does self-hosted support mean here?
It means the project can be run in a self-hosted setup. Check its platform details and requirements before selecting it.
Should I check the licence?
Yes. If you need to read or change the code, review the project's licence and open-source terms before choosing it.