7 Windows Like Linux Distros For Easy Switching

Leo Migdal

-Dec 6, 2025, 4:32 AM

7 windows like linux distros for easy switching

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If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form. Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. With the official support for Windows 10 now at its close, a growing number of users are actively seeking reliable and user-friendly alternatives. This pivotal moment presents an opportune time to explore the world of Linux distributions, offering a powerful, secure, and often more performant computing experience. For those accustomed to the familiarity of Windows, the prospect of transitioning to a new operating system can seem daunting. However, our extensive research and hands-on experience at Its Foss have revealed a selection of Linux distributions that are not only exceptionally fast and efficient but also remarkably similar in their user interface and...

Crucially, these distributions are also completely free, eliminating any additional cost for a robust operating system. We’ve meticulously curated this list to ensure a smooth, intuitive, and ultimately rewarding migration for anyone looking to step away from the soon-to-be unsupported Windows 10. The end of official support for Windows 10 marks a significant turning point for millions of users. This means that Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, bug fixes, or technical assistance for the operating system. While Windows 10 may continue to function, running an unsupported operating system leaves your computer vulnerable to new security threats, malware, and potential performance issues. This makes the decision to switch to a more actively maintained and secure platform not just a matter of preference, but an increasingly important security imperative.

Linux, as an open-source operating system, offers a compelling alternative. It is renowned for its stability, security, and flexibility. Unlike proprietary operating systems, Linux benefits from a global community of developers who constantly work to improve its performance and patch vulnerabilities. Furthermore, the open-source nature means you are not locked into a specific vendor, and the vast majority of Linux distributions are free to download, install, and use. This financial benefit, coupled with enhanced security and often superior performance, makes Linux an increasingly attractive option, especially now. For users transitioning from Windows, the perceived complexity of Linux is often the primary hurdle.

However, many modern Linux distributions have made incredible strides in user-friendliness, offering graphical interfaces that are intuitive and even mimic the familiar layout and functionality of Windows. This article aims to demystify the transition by highlighting distributions that provide a comfortable and productive experience for former Windows users, ensuring you can continue your digital life without missing a beat. When embarking on your journey to switch from Windows 10 to Linux, several factors should guide your decision. Understanding these will help you select a distribution that best aligns with your needs and expectations, ensuring a positive and productive experience from the outset. It’s fascinating how Windows 10 took off shortly after its release on July 29, 2015, quickly becoming one of the most popular versions of Windows. Many considered it to be the best Windows ever, which is exactly what a sequel operating system should be — unlike its predecessors (looking at you, Windows 8/8.1).

As of now, Microsoft boasts over 1.3 billion devices running Windows 10, a massive milestone. However, despite this impressive growth, Windows 7 held a strong market share for several years after Windows 10’s launch, reflecting the continued loyalty of many users to the older OS. With the release of Windows 11 on October 5, 2021, Microsoft has once again pushed for users to upgrade. Windows 11 offers a fresh, modern design, improved performance, and new features such as enhanced multitasking and support for Android apps. Many of the improvements in Windows 11 build on what made Windows 10 successful, while also addressing areas like user interface consistency and security. Although Windows 11 has seen steady adoption, Windows 10 continues to hold a significant share of the market, particularly since not all older devices meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11.

That said, given Microsoft’s focus on promoting Windows 11, it’s expected that more users will transition to the new OS over the coming years. Some people hate Windows 11, and some people hate the updates on Windows 10. So, it is not entirely a good desktop experience for many.Do you hate the Windows experience too? Is your computer not eligible for an upgrade with slightly dated hardware? Fret not; Linux distributions that look like Windows can be of use. You will get a similar user interface layout and more benefits for using Linux.

Here, I have picked some of the best Linux distributions for Windows users that you’d find comfortable using. While you may not find the same applications or tools on Linux — the user interface is what will make you feel comfortable using the OS. Of course, if you don’t have a specific requirement but want a Linux distro, you should look at the best Linux distributions. If Windows 10’s retirement has you considering your next move, Linux can be a decent desktop distribution once you add a few updates. Today’s distributions are quick, safe and, best of all, free — and many are so close to the Windows layout that the learning curve is not just manageable, but surprisingly slight. As Lansweeper’s earlier research indicated, many PCs don’t meet the TPM 2.0 and CPU requirements found in Windows 11, StatCounter has noticed consistent desktop Linux growth, indicating real-world momentum for alternatives.

Here are seven such linux distributions that will fit your Windows-loving needs, each with their own practical insights and overviews to help you make an informed choice on what you would like to install... Linux Mint’s Cinnamon desktop follows the Windows formula: a bottom panel, a launcher that works like the Start menu, a system tray and right-click desktop shortcuts. It’s built upon Ubuntu LTS, making drivers and updates a simple procedure. Tools such as Driver Manager, but also Timeshift snapshots and a straightforward Update Manager, make maintenance almost painless “for the rest of us”. Mint strikes a balance between familiarity and restraint: there are no flashy gimmicks, just a stable, predictable desktop that can be set up on older laptops and newer hardware with the same tools. Zorin OS features a “Zorin Appearance” switcher for switching between desktop layouts … including ones that make it look like classic Windows and Windows 11.

The Core version is clean and free; the Pro version, for a fee, adds more layouts and preinstalled apps that are good for creative and office tasks. It’s a Ubutnu-based distro, so you have excellent software availability under the hood here. There are plenty of reasons to quit using Windows 10 and switch over to Linux, but it's easy to become overwhelmed with the many different Linux distributions out there. To help you transition, I put together a short list of Linux distros that are similar to Windows 10. In case you haven't heard, Windows 10's support cycle is ending soon and you will have to switch to Windows 11. However, with Windows 11 regularly breaking computers (and that’s not the only story out there, sadly) and impacting performance on even relatively modern laptops, switching to the less resource-intensive Linux may be a good...

Moreover, you may find your PC isn't supported by Windows 11 at all. My personal favorite Linux distro for people coming from Windows 10 is Linux Mint. As I explain in my overview of what Linux Mint is and why I like it, this is mainly because, as a former Windows user, I could more or less intuit where all the... At first glance, the desktop even looks a bit like the Windows of yesteryear. It’s not just on the surface, either: once you start working more and more with Mint, you’ll quickly realize all of it is pretty easy to use, and it’s rare that you’ll have to... You can even install software via the software manager, using a massive repository of suitable programs, and it’s all free.

My next pick is Linux Lite, which is perfect for anybody who is running an older PC or laptop and wants to make sure they can keep doing so without performance issues. As the name suggests, it’s a lightweight distro that’s geared toward less powerful devices, making the most out of what it’s offered rather than demand systems live up to its requirements. Making the switch from Windows to Linux can seem daunting, but the right distribution can make the transition easy and familiar. There are many user-friendly Linux distros designed specifically to provide a Windows-like experience to help ease new users into the open source world. From layouts mimicking Windows 7 to pre-installed software you already know, the options covered below take the guesswork out of finding a Linux OS that works like what you‘re used to. Before jumping into the distributions, let‘s look at some of the advantages of making the switch:

The distributions below make it easy to gain all these advantages by providing familiar interfaces, software, and features Windows users already enjoy. Linux Mint is arguably the best Linux distribution for easing the transition for Windows users. The Cinnamon desktop environment provides a layout closely resembling Windows 7. The taskbar, system tray, start menu, and window controls are all located where Windows users expect. Mint also supports keyboard shortcuts like using Tab + Alt to switch between open windows. The interface feels immediately familiar.

If you’re looking for a Linux distribution to replace Windows 11, the goal is to find one that is highly user-friendly and suitable for beginners. Here are ten excellent choices that can offer a smooth transition from Windows to Linux. These distros have been chosen for their ease of use, stability, and community support. Make sure not to miss our bonus mention at the end! Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu and Debian and offers a choice of three desktop environments: Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce. The Cinnamon desktop, in particular, is designed to be familiar to Windows users, providing a comfortable and easy transition.

Linux Mint provides a seamless transition for Windows users with its familiar interface and user-friendly design. Zorin OS is designed to ease the transition from Windows to Linux. It offers a highly polished and visually appealing desktop environment that mimics the look and feel of Windows. Tecnobits - Free software - The best Linux distros if you come from the Microsoft ecosystem With the end of support for Windows 10 just around the corner, many are looking for an alternative operating system. Windows 11 isn't an option for many computers, and macOS is relegated exclusively to Apple computers.

The solution? Here's what we're looking for. The best Linux distros you can try if you're coming from the Microsoft ecosystem. <img decoding="async" src="https://tecnobits.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Mejores-distros-Linux-si-vienes-del-ecosistema-Microsoft.jpg" alt="Mejores distros Linux si vienes del ecosistema Microsoft" width="1200" height="561" srcset="https://tecnobits.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Mejores-distros-Linux-si-vienes-del-ecosistema-Microsoft.jpg 1200w, https://tecnobits.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Mejores-distros-Linux-si-vienes-del-ecosistema-Microsoft-300x140.jpg 300w, https://tecnobits.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Mejores-distros-Linux-si-vienes-del-ecosistema-Microsoft-1024x479.jpg 1024w, https://tecnobits.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Mejores-distros-Linux-si-vienes-del-ecosistema-Microsoft-768x359.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"/> Migrating from Windows to Linux may seem like a leap of faith, especially for those who have been immersed in the Microsoft ecosystem for years. But the experience doesn't have to be so traumaticIt's more like changing cars: everything feels different at first, but you soon discover many similarities and even some improvements.

7 Windows Like Linux Distros For Easy Switching

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