Link copied to clipboard # Fedora vs Scientific Linux Comparison - What are their main differences? Share [ Export ](/compare/fedora/scientific-linux/export.csv) FedoraScientific Linux[+ Add Product](#) Reviews **Fedora** [ 4.4/5(216) ](https://www.g2.com/products/fedora/reviews#reviews) **Scientific Linux** [ 3.6/5(16) ](https://www.g2.com/products/scientific-linux/reviews#reviews) Pricing **Fedora** No pricing available **Scientific Linux** No pricing available **Pricing Insights** from reviews Time to Implement **Fedora** 1 month Based on 19 responses **Scientific Linux** Not enough reviews yet Return on Investment **Fedora** 14 months Based on 15 responses **Scientific Linux** Not enough reviews yet Perceived Cost **Fedora** $$$$$ **Scientific Linux** Not enough reviews yet Average Discount **Fedora** 17% **Scientific Linux** Not enough reviews yet Pros & Cons **Fedora** [ Powerful Features (3) ](https://www.g2.com/products/fedora/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1163969&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[ Security Features (3) ](https://www.g2.com/products/fedora/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=2315001&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[ Skill Requirements (3) ](https://www.g2.com/products/fedora/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=2359226&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[ Update Frequency (3) ](https://www.g2.com/products/fedora/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=2314995&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews) **Scientific Linux** [ Linux/Ubuntu OS (2) ](https://www.g2.com/products/scientific-linux/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1989943&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[ Design Aesthetics (1) ](https://www.g2.com/products/scientific-linux/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=2268012&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[ Slow Updates (2) ](https://www.g2.com/products/scientific-linux/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1989944&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[ Lack of Support (1) ](https://www.g2.com/products/scientific-linux/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1989936&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews) Integrations **Fedora** [ ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_9a79d61fd9bf19162220cb5f1e92d410/docker-inc-docker.png "Product Avatar Image") Docker hub ](https://www.g2.com/products/docker-inc-docker/reviews)[ ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_99cb722fb43074ad0429bafaa469868a/ibm-terraform-formerly-hashicorp-terraform.png "Product Avatar Image") IBM Terraform (formerly HashiCorp Terraform) ](https://www.g2.com/products/ibm-terraform-formerly-hashicorp-terraform/reviews)[ ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_da16878589afcd15c61bcb8a7b6b66a7/kubernetes.png "Product Avatar Image") Kubernetes ](https://www.g2.com/products/kubernetes/reviews)[ ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_2ec0fb3d6001279948ececb9e055314c/red-hat-red-hat-openshift.jpg "Product Avatar Image") Red Hat OpenShift ](https://www.g2.com/products/red-hat-red-hat-openshift/reviews)[ View all ](https://www.g2.com/products/fedora/integrations) **Scientific Linux** Not enough data Ratings Meets Requirements **Fedora** 9.0 9.0168 **Scientific Linux** 7.7 7.714 Ease of Use **Fedora** 8.4 8.4171 **Scientific Linux** 6.9 6.915 Ease of Setup **Fedora** 8.7 8.777 **Scientific Linux** 6.9 6.96 Ease of Admin **Fedora** 8.7 8.752 **Scientific Linux** Not enough data Quality of Support **Fedora** 7.9 7.9151 **Scientific Linux** 5.7 5.712 Has the product been a good partner in doing business? **Fedora** 8.3 8.344 **Scientific Linux** Not enough data Product Direction (% positive) **Fedora** 9.1 9.1167 **Scientific Linux** 6.7 6.714 Features Operating System[Hide 14 FeaturesShow 14 Features](javascript:void(0);) 8.4 19 Not enough data Memory Management - Operating System RAM management 8.6(won by default) 13 Not enough data App Management Not enough data Not enough data File Management Not enough data Not enough data Device Management - Operating System I/O management 9.1(won by default) 15 Not enough data Backup and Recovery - Operating System Data backup 7.9(won by default) 12 Not enough data Error Detection - Operating System System operations monitoring 8.1(won by default) 15 Not enough data Additional Functionality Generative AI Not enough data Not enough data Data Security Not enough data Not enough data User Interface Not enough data Not enough data Resource Allocation Not enough data Not enough data System Updates Not enough data Not enough data For Developers Not enough data Not enough data AI Copilot Not enough data Not enough data Desktop Interface Not enough data Not enough data User Insights Reviewers' Company Size [![Fedora](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1487565578/fedora.svg "Fedora")](https://www.g2.com/products/fedora/reviews) Fedora Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.) 51.0% Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.) 26.4% Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.) 22.6% [![Scientific Linux](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_0c1a021629f8b397b7178c3e61bcb9a2/scientific-linux.jpg "Scientific Linux")](https://www.g2.com/products/scientific-linux/reviews) Scientific Linux Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.) 25.0% Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.) 25.0% Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.) 50.0% Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.) 51.0% 25.0% Mid-Market (51-1000 emp.) 26.4% 25.0% Enterprise (\> 1000 emp.) 22.6% 50.0% Reviewers' Industry [![Fedora](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1487565578/fedora.svg "Fedora")](https://www.g2.com/products/fedora/reviews) Fedora Information Technology and Services 26.0% Computer Software 24.5% Computer & Network Security 4.8% Internet 4.3% Telecommunications 3.4% Other 37.0% [![Scientific Linux](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_0c1a021629f8b397b7178c3e61bcb9a2/scientific-linux.jpg "Scientific Linux")](https://www.g2.com/products/scientific-linux/reviews) Scientific Linux Pharmaceuticals 18.8% Higher Education 12.5% Food & Beverages 12.5% Computer Software 12.5% Recreational Facilities and Services 6.3% Other 37.5% FAQs ## Fedora vs Scientific Linux FAQs Generated using AI Last updated: August 14, 2026 ### What is the difference between Fedora vs Scientific Linux? Fedora stands out for its higher reviewer satisfaction, more frequent updates, and stronger support scores compared to Scientific Linux, which is no longer actively maintained. | [Fedora](https://www.g2.com/products/fedora/reviews) | [Scientific Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/scientific-linux/reviews) | | --- | --- | | 4.4/5 (216 reviews) | 3.6/5 (16 reviews) | | — | — | | 8.7 | 6.9 | | 7.9 | 5.7 | | Security Features | Stability | ### How do the pricing models of Fedora and Scientific Linux compare? Fedora is perceived as the stronger value, with reviewers expressing higher satisfaction on price and cost-related dimensions. - **Fedora:** In recent reviews, many highlight Fedora's zero licensing cost and open-source model as a major value advantage, especially for small businesses and developers. - **Scientific Linux:** Reviewers note that Scientific Linux is also free and open source, but concerns about its discontinued updates and lack of ongoing support reduce its perceived value. - **Switching reasons:** Recent reviewers cite Fedora's active updates and community support as key reasons for choosing it over Scientific Linux, which is no longer maintained. ### What are the best alternatives to Fedora and Scientific Linux? The top three alternatives to Fedora and Scientific Linux are CentOS, Windows 11, and Ubuntu. | Product | G2 Rating (reviews) | Largest Segment | Pricing Insight | Top Reviewer-Cited Strength | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Fedora](https://www.g2.com/products/fedora/reviews) | 4.4/5 (216 reviews) | — | Free, open source, strong value for developers | Security Features | | [Scientific Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/scientific-linux/reviews) | 3.6/5 (16 reviews) | — | Free, but discontinued support reduces value | Stability | | [CentOS](https://www.g2.com/products/centos/reviews) | 4.4/5 (425 reviews) | Mid-Market | Free, open source, widely used for servers | Enterprise-grade stability | | [Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-11/reviews) | 4.5/5 (4322 reviews) | Small-Business | Commercial licensing, broad compatibility | User-friendly interface | | [Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/ubuntu/reviews) | 4.5/5 (2400 reviews) | Small-Business | Free, open source, strong community support | Ease of use and accessibility | ### Which Operating System features should I prioritize when comparing Fedora and Scientific Linux? Buyers should prioritize security, update frequency, stability, ease of setup, and support quality when comparing Fedora and Scientific Linux. - **Security:** Fedora is cited for security features in 3 all-time mentions; Scientific Linux has 1 all-time mention for security/safety. - **Update Frequency:** Fedora has 3 all-time mentions for regular updates; Scientific Linux has 2 all-time mentions for slow updates and 1 for update issues. - **Stability:** Fedora has 2 all-time mentions for stability; Scientific Linux has 1 all-time mention for stability. - **Ease of Setup:** Fedora scores 8.7; Scientific Linux scores 6.9. - **Quality of Support:** Fedora scores 7.9; Scientific Linux scores 5.7. ### What are the pros and cons of Fedora vs Scientific Linux? Fedora's headline strength is its security and up-to-date features, while Scientific Linux is valued for stability but is limited by discontinued support. - **Fedora strengths:** Security features (3 all-time mentions), regular updates (2), speed/performance (3), community support (2), lightweight size (2), open source (2), stability (2). - **Fedora trade-offs:** Skill requirements (3), frequent updates (3), driver issues (2), lack of support (2), usage difficulty (2), limited software (1). - **Scientific Linux strengths:** Stability (1), security/safety (1), powerful features (1), regular updates (1), design aesthetics (1), Linux/Ubuntu OS (2). - **Scientific Linux trade-offs:** Slow updates (2), lack of support (1), update issues (1), difficult configuration, discontinued updates, requires Linux experience. ### Is Fedora or Scientific Linux better for small businesses? Fedora is the better fit for small businesses, with reviewers frequently citing its suitability for budget-conscious and development-focused environments. - **Fedora:** Reviewers highlight Fedora's zero cost, frequent updates, and suitability for small businesses and developers, making it a strong choice for budget-sensitive organizations. - **Scientific Linux:** Reviewers note that while Scientific Linux was once valued for its stability in research and academic settings, its discontinued support and lack of updates make it less suitable for small businesses today. ### Which Operating System platform has better integrations? Fedora is favored for integrations, with reviewers citing its compatibility with modern development tools. - **Fedora:** Docker (5 all-time mentions), Kubernetes (1 all-time mention), and integration with Active Directory are highlighted in recent reviews. - **Scientific Linux:** No recent reviewer-cited integrations are mentioned. ### How do Fedora and Scientific Linux compare on customer support? Fedora outperforms Scientific Linux on Quality of Support by a margin of 2.2 points (7.9 vs 5.7), a material difference. - **Fedora:** Reviewers consistently praise Fedora's active community support, comprehensive documentation, and responsive help channels. - **Scientific Linux:** Reviewers note that support is limited due to discontinued updates and a shrinking user community, making it harder to find timely assistance. ### Which is easier to implement, Fedora or Scientific Linux? Fedora is easier to implement, with a 1.8-point advantage in Ease of Setup (8.7 vs 6.9). - **Fedora:** Reviewers describe the setup process as straightforward, with many citing easy installation and configuration, especially for development environments. - **Scientific Linux:** Reviewers report that setup requires more Linux experience and can be challenging due to limited documentation and community support. Alternatives **Fedora Alternatives** ![Windows 11](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_13aba37ae908d9cf29a2452925257ccc/windows-11.jpeg "Windows 11") [ Windows 11 ](/products/windows-11/reviews) ![Ubuntu](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/4b0cb18835a92aa4bb723c4d488c6400/ubuntu.svg "Ubuntu") [ Ubuntu ](/products/ubuntu/reviews) ![Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_3042cb71cbf8ba9820007715c12aea60/red-hat-enterprise-linux.jpg "Red Hat Enterprise Linux") [ Red Hat Enterprise Linux ](/products/red-hat-enterprise-linux/reviews) ![Windows 7](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1487565509/windows-7.svg "Windows 7") [ Windows 7 ](/products/windows-7/reviews) **Scientific Linux Alternatives** ![CentOS](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1487565579/centos.svg "CentOS") [ CentOS ](/products/centos/reviews) ![Ubuntu](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/4b0cb18835a92aa4bb723c4d488c6400/ubuntu.svg "Ubuntu") [ Ubuntu ](/products/ubuntu/reviews) ![Linux Mint](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_3146bdd0defa39278b58727400f0a807/linux-mint.jpg "Linux Mint") [ Linux Mint ](/products/linux-mint/reviews) ![Debian](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_d8ee572841e069ed16147ca23a2b9144/debian.jpg "Debian") [ Debian ](/products/debian/reviews) ## Fedora vs Scientific Linux - Reviewers felt that Fedora meets the needs of their business better than Scientific Linux. - When comparing quality of ongoing product support, reviewers felt that Fedora is the preferred option. - For feature updates and roadmaps, our reviewers preferred the direction of Fedora over Scientific Linux.