This Is The Linux Distro I Recommend To Every Windows User
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. 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. Well, here we are. We all knew it was coming. We had clear warnings.
And now, it's finally here. Microsoft's beloved operating system, Windows 10, has reached its end-of-life date. It's weird writing that in a sombre way, because I still remember the early days of Windows 10, where Microsoft fought to get stubborn people off of Windows 8.1 and the legendary Windows 7,... Now, Microsoft is doing the same thing, except it is trying to nudge the millions of loyal users still on Windows 10 to upgrade to Windows 11. And yes, Windows 10's market share is still quite high. But between the two Microsoft-sanctioned options of using Windows 10's extended support plan for another year of security updates and upgrading to Windows 11 is a third option: migrating to another operating system.
Some XDA writers moved to macOS, while I went for Linux. Given how you can turn a fairly old Windows 10 PC into a Linux machine for free, I wanted to share what I believe is the best Linux distribution for Windows escapees. I feel like Linux Mint is often recommended for Windows users, so I tried to think of another distribution that might be a better fit. However, it's tough to think of something else that's more suitable for people leaving Windows, especially given how it was my first distro when moving away from Windows 10. As such, I'd prefer to draw on my own personal experience of how Linux Mint was for me instead of plucking out any old distro. People recommend Linux Mint a lot because it uses Cinnamon, a desktop environment that's really easy for Windows fans to understand.
All your basics are there: a Start menu look-alike, a taskbar with all the essentials arranged like Windows, and even a wallpaper that resembles Microsoft's style. For many users, the transition to Linux can feel like stepping into an entirely new world. While the power, flexibility, and security of Linux are undeniable, the sheer variety of desktop environments and user interfaces can be daunting for those accustomed to the familiar layout and workflows of Windows. The good news is that the Linux ecosystem has matured significantly, and a growing number of distributions are meticulously designed to offer a Windows-like desktop experience. This isn’t about creating mere superficial replicas; it’s about bridging the gap, providing a comfortable on-ramp for users who want to explore the benefits of Linux without the steep learning curve often associated with... At Its Foss, we understand this desire for familiarity.
We’ve extensively explored and tested numerous Linux distributions to identify those that truly excel at providing a seamless Windows transition. Our goal is to help you discover a Linux environment that feels intuitive, productive, and, most importantly, like home. In this comprehensive article, we delve deep into the best Linux distributions for Windows users. We’ll go beyond superficial similarities to examine distributions that offer excellent Windows-like usability, familiar desktop layouts, and out-of-the-box application compatibility. We aim to empower you with the knowledge to make an informed choice, ensuring your journey into the Linux world is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. The desire for a Windows-like Linux experience stems from several key factors that resonate with a broad spectrum of users:
Familiarity and Reduced Learning Curve: The most significant driver is the comfort of the known. Users have spent years, often decades, interacting with the Windows interface. Every icon, every menu, every workflow has a learned association. Switching to an entirely alien interface can lead to frustration and a perception of complexity, even if the underlying system is powerful. Linux distributions that mirror Windows layouts significantly reduce the cognitive load, allowing users to focus on tasks rather than learning a new way to perform them. Windows has long been the dominant operating system in the consumer and corporate markets, but Linux is steadily gaining popularity, especially among users looking for more customization, better security, and free software alternatives.
For Windows users considering a switch to Linux, choosing the right distribution is crucial. This blog will explore the best Linux distributions for Windows users, covering their fundamental concepts, usage methods, common practices, and best practices. Linux is an open-source operating system kernel that serves as the core of many different operating systems, known as Linux distributions. Unlike Windows, which is proprietary software developed by Microsoft, Linux is freely available for anyone to use, modify, and distribute. Switching from Windows to Linux can be a rewarding experience, offering more customization, better security, and cost-savings. By choosing the right Linux distribution, such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Zorin OS, and following the usage methods, common practices, and best practices outlined in this blog, Windows users can make a smooth...
The world of Linux offers Windows users an exciting array of choices to discover an alternative operating system that‘s secure, flexible, and community-driven. With so much variety, though, it can be overwhelming for Windows users thinking about making the leap to determine which distribution might be the best fit. The good news is there are a number of excellent Linux distributions specifically designed to provide a familiar look and feel for those accustomed to the Microsoft experience. From lightweight distros ideal for underpowered hardware to feature-packed operating systems for developers, the Linux ecosystem has a distribution for every Windows user ready to explore something new. Let‘s dive into 10 fantastic options to run Linux in a way that feels comfortable and intuitive coming from Windows. Linux Mint is a superb starting point for Windows users thanks to its familiar layout, plethora of proprietary software support, and active community.
The Cinnamon desktop environment delivers a highly customizable Windows 7-like interface complete with a start menu, system tray, taskbar, and more. Accustomed keyboard shortcuts like using the Windows key or Alt+Tab work flawlessly in Mint. Under the hood, Mint is based on the Ubuntu distribution and boasts excellent hardware compatibility, especially for Nvidia graphics. The latest release comes loaded with updated software like the Warpinator file transfer utility. I've worked from home for over a decade. Without Linux as my primary operating system, I'm not sure how I would be able to do the things I do with the level of simplicity and reliability that I've achieved with the open-source...
Linux makes a lot of things possible for me that Windows and MacOS cannot handle. Also: The best Linux distributions for beginners in 2025: Expert tested and reviewed But which distributions would I recommend for people who want an operating system that can serve as their home office desktop? I've considered this over the years (and used many different flavors of Linux), and have come up with a short list of distributions that would make outstanding home office OSes. Although the operating systems listed here are great for the home office, not all of them are perfectly suited as desktop operating systems for those new to Linux. And remember, choosing the right Linux desktop distribution for you isn't nearly as challenging as you might think.
Choosing the best Linux distribution for desktop use can greatly enhance your computing experience. Linux offers a wide variety of distros, each tailored to different types of users—whether you're a beginner seeking simplicity, a professional needing powerful tools, or an advanced user who loves customization. In this guide, we'll explore the top Linux distros for desktop use that offer the perfect balance of performance, stability, and usability for day-to-day computing. A Linux distro (distribution) is an edition of the Linux operating system that contains the Linux kernel, utilities software, and applications to execute on a computer. As Linux is open source, various groups develop their own editions, tailoring them for particular uses. 1.
Variety – There are hundreds of Linux distros, each designed for different users. 3. Package Management – Each distro has its own system for installing and updating software. Choosing the best Linux distro can be a daunting task with the sheer variety of options available. Whether you’re a beginner looking for the best Linux desktop distro, an intermediate user wanting more control, or a power user seeking the best Linux flavor, there is something for everyone in the Linux... This guide will help you understand what a Linux distribution is, highlight the top Linux distributions, and help you find the best Linux operating system for your needs.
A Linux distribution (or “distro”) is a complete operating system built on the Linux kernel. It includes all the necessary components, such as a desktop environment, package manager, and software, tailored for different user groups. Whether you’re after the best linux os for gaming, development, or everyday use, Linux distributions provide the flexibility to meet a wide range of requirements. There are hundreds of Linux distros available, from the most popular Linux distributions like Ubuntu and Fedora to more specialized ones like Kali Linux or Tails. Understanding the differences between them is key to finding the best Linux edition for you. A GROWING WORLD OF LINUX DISTRIBUTIONS There are already hundreds of Linux distributions available, each catering to different user preferences and needs.
This diversity exists because Linux offers a unique level of freedom, allowing communities and developers to create their own versions, tailored for everything from gaming to enterprise servers, from privacy-focused use to lightweight systems... The list of Linux distros continues to grow as new innovations and user needs emerge, reflecting the dynamic and evolving nature of the Linux ecosystem. The best Linux distro for your hardware depends on your machine’s specifications. Some of the newest Linux distros, like Pop!_OS, are optimized for modern hardware, while lightweight distros such as MX Linux are great for older devices.
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With Windows 10 Support At An End, And Window 11
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 ...
The Taskbar And "Start Menu" Very Closely Resemble The Sort
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 extr...
As One Final Bonus, Finding And Installing Apps On Kubuntu
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. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. ...
It Can Be An Inundating Experience, Especially For People Coming
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 pictu...
And Now, It's Finally Here. Microsoft's Beloved Operating System, Windows
And now, it's finally here. Microsoft's beloved operating system, Windows 10, has reached its end-of-life date. It's weird writing that in a sombre way, because I still remember the early days of Windows 10, where Microsoft fought to get stubborn people off of Windows 8.1 and the legendary Windows 7,... Now, Microsoft is doing the same thing, except it is trying to nudge the millions of loyal user...