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Best Linux Distro For Windows Users Of 2025 Techradar

Leo Migdal
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best linux distro for windows users of 2025 techradar

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. We list the best Linux distros for Windows users, to make it simple and easy to make the leap from Windows machines to Linux. It can be an inundating experience, especially for people coming from proprietary operating systems like Windows. Linux distributions - aka, distros - are open source, which has the advantage of allowing for degrees of customization unheard of in Windows, but it also means there can seem to be a bewildering... This is where these specialized distros, designed for Windows users, come into the picture.

'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean? ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing. When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay.

Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers. ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and... Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article.

If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form. Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. As Windows 10 nears its end-of-life in 2025, many users are faced with a decision: upgrade to Windows 11 if their current hardware meets the requirements, purchase a new computer, or explore other operating... One such option is Linux, which offers a viable, cost-free, and feature-rich alternative. Linux is not just a backup plan. It is a fully capable operating system comparable to Windows and macOS.It boasts reliability, security, user-friendliness and complete freedom from licensing fees.

If you have grown accustomed to the Windows 10 interface, transitioning to Linux might seem intimidating, but several Linux distributions have been designed specifically to make that process as smooth as possible. Below are four excellent options for Windows users who want to move to Linux without sacrificing comfort or functionality. Read More: How to Use SCP Command on Linux The customizable powerhouse that feels familiar yet offers limitless flexibility. KDE Neon showcases the KDE Plasma desktop environment, renowned for its highly configurable nature. Out of the box, KDE Plasma bears a slight resemblance to Windows 7, offering a sense of familiarity.

However, it doesn’t stop there users can easily adjust the interface to closely resemble Windows 10 or 11. Many Windows users are often curious about exploring Linux due to its open-source nature, enhanced security, and a wide range of customization options. However, transitioning from Windows to Linux can be intimidating. Choosing the right Linux distribution (distro) is crucial for a smooth transition. In this blog, we will explore some of the best Linux distros for Windows users, their fundamental concepts, usage methods, common practices, and best practices. A Linux distribution is an operating system built on top of the Linux kernel.

It includes the Linux kernel, system utilities, software packages, and a graphical user interface (GUI) in most cases. Different distros are tailored for various user needs, whether it's for beginners, developers, or server administrators. Transitioning from Windows to Linux can be a rewarding experience. By choosing the right Linux distro, such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Zorin OS, Windows users can enjoy the benefits of Linux, including open-source software, enhanced security, and customization. By following the usage methods, common practices, and best practices outlined in this blog, users can make the most of their Linux experience. With Windows 10 support at an end, and Window 11 still a bit of an AI-riddle mess, there has never been so much interest in trying out Linux as there is today.

If you're looking for a Linux distro that will be easy to adjust to when coming from Windows, look no further than Kubuntu. One of the biggest stumbling blocks when you switch between operating systems is the user interace. How do you open and close apps? Where do you find apps? What is navigating the settings menu like? The taskbar and "Start menu" very closely resemble the sort of thing you would find in Windows.

I think Kubuntu's Start menu is particularly reminiscent of Windows 10's Start Menu, which featured a number of pinned programs on the right side and a list of your applications on the left. You can pin new apps to it by right-clicking them and selecting "Add to favorites." The Settings app is also extremely intuitive, and I'd compare favorably it to the Settings menu you'd find on macOS. Unlike Windows, you have only one place you need to go to find things. You don't need to remember which setting is buried in the Control Panel and which setting has been halfheartedly ported into the newer Settings app. As one final bonus, finding and installing apps on Kubuntu (like most Linux distros) is easier than on Windows.

You just use the Discover app to handle adding, updating, and removing applications, and system updates. I'd recommend starting with the KDE apps if you need an app for something—they're usually excellent. Welcome to ItsFoss, your dedicated portal for all things Linux. As the digital landscape continuously evolves, so too does the vibrant ecosystem of Linux distributions. With over a thousand variants available, navigating the choices to find the perfect Linux distro for your needs can feel like an overwhelming expedition. Whether you are a seasoned Linux aficionado seeking a new challenge or a curious newcomer eager to explore the power and flexibility of open-source operating systems, this comprehensive guide is meticulously crafted to illuminate...

We’ve scoured the Linux universe to present you with the top 10 best Linux distributions that are not only highly regarded in 2025 but also offer distinct advantages for various user profiles. Prepare to embark on a journey of discovery as we delve into the intricate details of each distribution, empowering you to make an informed decision that aligns with your technical aspirations and daily computing... At ItsFoss, our mission is to demystify the world of Linux for every user. We understand that the term “best” is subjective and hinges entirely on individual requirements, skill levels, and intended use cases. Therefore, this article aims to provide an in-depth analysis of each distribution’s strengths, weaknesses, target audience, and unique selling propositions. We will explore their suitability for everything from casual desktop use and creative endeavors to robust server administration and cutting-edge development.

By the time you reach the end of this artic_le, you will possess a clear understanding of which Linux distro is poised to become your indispensable digital companion in 2025 and beyond. The Linux kernel, the heart of the operating system, continues its relentless march of progress, with new versions and features being released at an astonishing pace. This kernel’s robustness, security, and adaptability are the foundational pillars upon which the vast diversity of Linux distributions is built. In 2025, we’re witnessing a mature yet dynamic Linux ecosystem, characterized by increased user-friendliness, enhanced hardware support, and a proliferation of specialized distributions catering to niche markets. The democratization of technology has never been more evident, and Linux stands at the forefront, offering powerful, free, and open-source alternatives to proprietary operating systems. The criteria for what constitutes a “best” Linux distribution are multifaceted.

We consider factors such as ease of installation, user interface (UI) intuitiveness, software availability and package management, community support and documentation, system stability and performance, security features, and hardware compatibility. Furthermore, we acknowledge the growing importance of desktop environments (DEs), which significantly shape the user experience. From the sleek and modern GNOME to the lightweight Xfce and the highly customizable KDE Plasma, each DE offers a distinct visual and functional paradigm. To compile this definitive list of the 10 best Linux distributions for 2025, we employed a rigorous selection methodology. Our team at ItsFoss evaluated numerous distributions based on their current relevance, user feedback from the wider Linux community, recent development activity, and their ability to consistently deliver a superior computing experience. We prioritized distributions that demonstrate a commitment to innovation, maintain active development cycles, and offer comprehensive support channels.

The selection process involved: Curious about which Linux distributions are leading the pack in 2025? Based on the latest rankings from the past three months, here are the top 15 distros Linux users are loving this year. Whether you’re new to Linux or a seasoned user, there’s something here for everyone. Linux Mint continues to dominate thanks to its stability, ease of use, and familiar interface. Perfect for beginners.

A high-performance Arch-based distro with a strong focus on gaming and responsiveness. A rising star in the Linux world. Lightweight, fast, and Debian-based. MX Linux offers great performance for both old and new hardware. Gives users a near-vanilla Arch experience with user-friendly installation. Great for those ready to explore Arch.

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When You Purchase Through Links On Our Site, We May

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. We list the best Linux distros for Windows users, to make it simple and easy to make the leap from Windows machines to Linux. It can be an inundating experience, especially for people coming from proprietary operating systems like Windows. Linux distributions - aka, distros - are open source, whi...

'ZDNET Recommends': What Exactly Does It Mean? ZDNET's Recommendations Are

'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean? ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and...

Neither ZDNET Nor The Author Are Compensated For These Independent

Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers. ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gea...

If You See Inaccuracies In Our Content, Please Report The

If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form. Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. As Windows 10 nears its end-of-life in 2025, many users are faced with a decision: upgrade to Windows 11 if their current hardware meets the requirements, purchase a new computer, or explore other operating... One such option is Linux, which offers a viable, cost-f...

If You Have Grown Accustomed To The Windows 10 Interface,

If you have grown accustomed to the Windows 10 interface, transitioning to Linux might seem intimidating, but several Linux distributions have been designed specifically to make that process as smooth as possible. Below are four excellent options for Windows users who want to move to Linux without sacrificing comfort or functionality. Read More: How to Use SCP Command on Linux The customizable pow...