Linux is a well-known open source and free software project. Its distributions are well-respected by consumers around the world. Security-oriented Linux distributions are used by cybersecurity professionals to conduct penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, forensic analysis, and other tasks. Kali Linux and Parrot OS, are the most popular OS designed for security professionals.

This article will highlight the differences and similarities between the two distributions. This article will help you decide which distribution is best for your penetration testing career.
Kali Linux

Kali Linux, a Debian-based Linux distribution, is open-sourced and known as a “swiss knife” for network analysts and penetration testers. It comes pre-installed with tools to perform information security tasks like penetration testing, reverse engineering, digital forensics, and more. Kali Linux is compatible with the Debian standards as well as the Linux kernel. It was developed by Mati Aharoni, Deavons Kearns, and is meant to replace the Backtrack OS. It is currently being funded and monitored by offensive security.
Parrot OS :

Parrot Security OS, a Debian-based Linux distribution, is free and open-sourced. It’s similar to Kali Linux. It aids penetration testers, security researchers and forensic investigators. Lorenza Faletra, a group of Linux experts, launched it in 2013. It has a wide variety of security tools and a list pre-installed security tools like Anonsurf and Tor. The parrot OS has been a hit in recent years and has attracted the attention of many security professionals. It offers more security than other Linux distributions, as it has anonymity tools that allow you to hide your identity on the internet.
Similarities between Kali Linux and Parrot OS. Before we get into the differences, let’s take a look at some similarities between the two operating system:
Parrot OS and Kali Linux both are Debian-based development.
Both operating systems were designed to assist penetration testers
They support both 32-bit and 64-bit architectures
Both operating systems come pre-installed with security tools
They can support embedded and IoT devices

There are differences between Kali Linux and the parrot OS
Based on the following parameters, we can distinguish between Kali Linux OS and Parrot OS
Hardware requirements
Penetration Testing Tools
Performance
User interface
Parrot OS and Kali Linux require specific hardware requirements
Before installing any Linux distribution, it is important to verify that your system meets the requirements. It can also be used on older systems or low-powered computers. Kali Linux, on the other hand, is resource-hungry and slows down on older systems. Due to the use of a Matte desktop environment, it takes less disc space for installation.Following are the hardware requirements for both:Hardware requirements of Parrot OS
Graphical Acceleration Is Not Required
RAM: Minimum 320MB
It is necessary to have a minimum of 1GHZ dual core CPU
It can be booted in legacy and UEFI formats.
To install the operating system, you need at least 16GB of storage

Kali Linux requires specific hardware
Graphical Acceleration Is Required
1GB RAM is required
It is necessary to have a minimum of 1GHZ dual core CPU
It can be booted in legacy and UEFI formats.
To install the operating system, you need at least 20GB of hard drive space
Parrot OS is the best when it comes to consuming less hardware resources. However, today’s market laptops and desktops are powerful enough for the highest load.
Tools for penetration testing
Both distributions include a wide range of pre-installed hacking software. Additional tools are available in Parrot OS that are not available in Kali Linux. These tools can be installed later in Kali Linux. Wififisher and Anonsurf are two of the most popular tools.