Download XBian – Fast Kodi Media Center OS for Raspberry Pi

XBian is a free, open-source Linux distribution based on Raspberry Pi OS (formerly Raspbian) that is optimized for running Kodi as a dedicated home theater media center. It is designed to boot directly into Kodi with minimal resource overhead, delivering smooth video playback and a responsive media interface on Raspberry Pi hardware.

Unlike heavier distributions, XBian focuses on speed and efficiency — it boots fast, updates frequently, and keeps the underlying OS as lean as possible so that maximum resources are dedicated to Kodi performance. It supports Raspberry Pi models from the original Pi to newer generations and can also run on select ARM-based single-board computers.

XBian includes a built-in package manager and configuration tool (XBian Config) for managing system settings, enabling SSH, configuring audio output, overclocking, and installing additional packages — all without leaving the Kodi interface or connecting a keyboard. It is an excellent choice for building a dedicated, always-on media center with minimal power consumption.

Key Features

• Optimized for Kodi – Boots directly into Kodi with a minimal OS footprint for maximum performance on Raspberry Pi.
• Fast boot times – Aggressive optimization results in very short startup times from power-on to Kodi home screen.
• Frequent updates – Rolling-release style updates keep Kodi and system packages current without full reinstallation.
• XBian Config tool – In-Kodi configuration addon for SSH, audio, display, overclocking, and package management.
• Raspberry Pi compatibility – Supports multiple Raspberry Pi generations including Pi 2, 3, 4, and Zero 2 W.
• Remote and app control – Fully controllable via Kodi remote apps (Kore, YATSE) on smartphones.
• Low power consumption – Runs efficiently on Raspberry Pi hardware for an always-on media center with minimal electricity cost.

How to Install

1. Download the XBian image (.img.gz) for your Raspberry Pi model from the link below.
2. Flash the image to a microSD card using Raspberry Pi Imager, balenaEtcher, or Win32DiskImager.
3. Insert the microSD card into your Raspberry Pi and connect it to your TV via HDMI.
4. Power on the Raspberry Pi — XBian will boot and complete initial setup automatically, then launch into Kodi.
5. Use the XBian Config addon in Kodi to configure network, SSH, audio output, and any additional packages you need.