Look at AntiX and MX linux.
You won't get the latest desktop on any 32-bit linux now, I don't think. You may have to get an older download. 32-bit systems don't usually have the power to push a decent desktop now.

The fact is, "modern" PCs have been 64-bit for ages now. It takes time to support 32-bit as well as 64-bit and the number of 32-bit machines around is dwindling.

I have two older PCs running earlier versions of Fedora 28 (686) 32-bit. Run Great. The reason is that the older PCs have real parallel ports, serial ports and can drive 5.25 disk drives. With a conversion cable one can talk to 8" drives as well. Both have lots of CP/M converters, other disk converters, LIF support and 3.5" and 5.25 drivers. Linux has some great conversion capabilities.

Don't need these PCs very often but when you need to read a strange 5.25 formatted disk they come in handy. Also they can read older hard drives and SCSI drives. Most newer PCs don't have old hardware support and you may only be able to read 3.5" diskettes with a converter but not write to them.

For completeness, I also have a 486 and an early Pentium multiboot machines for old software and old hardware support. One has a Compaticard IV and both have SCSI interfaces. Still have a maxed out XT as well. Nothing like the real thing. The big problem with all this stuff is that it takes up a lot of space.

Though I use the cutting edge of Linux, I have not cut all my ties with vintage equipment or dumped all my old disks.

I have run AntiX and experimented with Mint a few years ago and they are not bad. I still have a VM of AntiX. 32-bit Linux is still around but I can't get the releases I want anymore. Time and tech keep marching on.
Edited 2025-11-01 08:25 by tgerbic