The Best Linux Distros for Users of Windows
For those transitioning from Windows to Linux, there’s no need to worry about an unfamiliar interface. Many Linux distributions offer a GUI-centric experience similar to Windows, as well as excellent hardware support, long-term stability and a wide range of software applications. Now is the perfect time to give Linux a try!
For Windows users looking for more options and customization, Linux is a great alternative. However, the transition can be daunting. Linux is an open source operating system that offers a wide range of customization options, but it’s not as user-friendly as Windows.
Deepin Linux
Deepin Linux is a Debian-based distro designed to make the Linux desktop accessible to new users. It features an aesthetically pleasing custom desktop environment called DDE, along with several manufactured home apps. To help users customize their installation, Deepin offers a first-boot configurator application that allows them to change icons, enable window effects and more. The distro is divided into two categories based on the number of features available on the computer.
DDE, the Deepin Desktop Environment, offers a range of customizations for users’ desktops and notifications. With its low-cost machines, users can run the installation in Efficient mode to make the most of limited resources. For newer machines, Fashion mode is available to add extra flair. Additionally, a Deepin app provides access to common tasks such as watching movies, listening to music and making backups.
The Deepin App Store simplifies the process of discovering and installing new apps for users unfamiliar with the Linux app ecosystem. It also features an Uninstall section, making it easier to remove installed apps.
elementary OS
Elementary OS, a popular Ubuntu-based distro, is designed to provide an intuitive and aesthetically pleasing experience for users new to Linux. Its custom Pantheon desktop offers a modern take on the classic desktop metaphor, including features such as picture-in-picture mode that allows users to select an area of a window or desktop and pull it out into its own movable, resizable window.
The distro offers a streamlined desktop experience for new Linux users, with pre-installed apps like Mail, Music, Photos and Videos that are easy to find.
Elementary OS offers a streamlined approach to installation and system settings, with an integration app to help new users define their setup and a custom package manager that limits the number of options. Its custom app also simplifies system settings by only exposing the basics.
Solus
Solus is a Linux distro that stands out from the crowd due to its independence from other operating systems. This allows developers to tailor the user experience, with Budgie desktop being the highlight. It offers a familiar Windows-like interface while providing modern conveniences like Raven, a unified notification and control center sidebar with quick access to calendar and media player controls.
Solus 4, the latest version of the Linux-based operating system, offers four editions: Budgie, Gnome (with several extensions), MATE (featuring the modernized Brisk menu) and Plasma. All editions come with a range of apps and a user-friendly Software Center.
Solus Linux offers a continuous release model, providing users with regular updates while ensuring stability. Updates are tested before being sent to the stable repository, so users can stay up-to-date without risking their installation.
Zorin OS
Zorin OS is a Linux distro designed to make the transition from Windows and macOS easier for new users. It features a homeZorin Appearance that allows users to customize their desktop environment to look and feel like those popular proprietary operating systems.
Zorin OS offers four versions, ranging from free to $39. The Core edition is the standard version with all the regular Linux applications, while Lite is designed for older machines. Ultimate comes with support and extras like macOS-style interfaces and apps/games.
Zorin Core is a great way to get acquainted with the Linux-based operating system, and its Ultimate edition offers users the full experience. The distro comes with helpful documentation for those transitioning from proprietary desktops, making it an ideal choice for newcomers. We recommend giving Zorin Core a try before upgrading to Ultimate.
Ubuntu
Ubuntu, a popular Linux flavor, is an ideal choice for those new to the operating system. It’s affordable and user-friendly, making it a top pick for many. Canonical releases new versions of Ubuntu every six months and an LTS (Long Term Support) version every two years.
Ubuntu’s Long-Term Support (LTS) version offers users five years of security updates and maintenance, compared to the one year of support offered by standard versions. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a reliable operating system, as well as those wanting to develop their cloud computing skills. The LTS version also uses the Gnome desktop environment, which is more familiar to Windows and macOS users.
Kubuntu
Switching from Windows to Ubuntu can be a jarring experience, but its focus on simplicity makes it easier to adjust. Every aspect of the Linux variant is designed with this goal in mind, from the desktop to other features.
Kubuntu offers a classic desktop experience, similar to Windows, combined with the user-friendly features of Ubuntu. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a familiar yet powerful operating system.
Linux Mint
Linux Mint offers an alternative to Ubuntu, with three versions based on different desktop environments. Its developers have removed or reversed some of Canonical’s decisions, giving users a distinct experience.
Cinnamon offers a modern desktop experience that combines classic paradigms with modern GPU-powered effects like transparency and shadows. It’s a familiar look, but with an elegant touch, making it easy to use for all users.
MATE and Cinnamon are two desktop environments that offer similar functionality, but differ in their structure and design. MATE is akin to a modern Windows XP, while Cinnamon is more like Windows Vista with an emphasis on visuals.
Robolinux
Robolinux is making a big push to attract Windows users, offering an easy way to migrate their programs, files and settings. For those looking to switch from Windows to Linux, Robolinux provides a convenient solution.
Robolinux offers a free virtual machine, Stealth VM, that can run Windows programs without delay. Additionally, users can clone their entire C drive of Windows and migrate all their existing programs and data. The cloning tool is free to use but the developer is requesting donations.
Solus
Solus is an ideal Linux distro for Windows users, boasting a beautiful, intuitive user interface and many of the same features as Windows. Its Software Center is similar to the Windows control panel, allowing users to easily manage their applications. Perfect for beginners and kids, Solus provides a smooth transition from Windows to Linux.
Solus, a Linux-based operating system, offers users a highly customizable experience with pre-installed apps like Mozilla Firefox, Files Explorer for document management and GNOME MPV for media playback. Every tweak is designed to provide a unified computing experience.
Zorin OS
Zorin OS is the perfect choice for Windows 7 fans looking for a familiar experience. It offers a desktop interface that looks and feels like Windows 7, but with added beauty and ease of use. Plus, users can switch to other interfaces if they want something different but still reminiscent of Windows 7.
Zorin OS is designed to make the transition from Windows to Linux as smooth as possible. It offers a GNOME 3 layout, or a Windows XP-like interface for those who want to stay close to their familiar environment. Additionally, it’s the only distribution on our list that includes Wine, a compatibility layer that allows users to install Windows applications on Linux.
Final note
Discover the best Linux distros for Windows users. Share this article with your friends and contact us if you have any questions.
