Say “Gentoo” and most people think of a source code based DIY distro. However, this is a pre-built desktop system that comes as 3.4GB disk image. Michael Reed takes it for a spin…

Pros: Good community behind it. Lots of desktops and applications. A good way of demonstrating desktop Linux.

Cons: Beyond using it as a demonstration appliance, you’d have to be a Gentoo expert. A bit unwieldy for every day use.

First released in 2002 and based around source code rather than pre-compiled binary packages, Gentoo has become famous for the flexibility it offers. However, the Gentoo live DVD is a different beast altogether, leveraging existing Gentoo technology to provide a ready-made desktop that boots from removable media such as a DVD or a USB flash drive.

rest here