Linux which looks good

Best Linux Distributions That are Most Suitable for Beginners

Last updated March 25, 2021 By Aquil Roshan 326 Comments

Brief: It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the list of Linux distributions available. In this article, we will mention the best Linux distros for beginners.

Let’s face it, Linux can pose an overwhelming complexity to new users. But then, it’s not Linux itself that brings this complexity. Rather, it’s the “newness” factor that causes this. Not getting nostalgic, but remembering my first time with Linux, I didn’t even know what to expect. I liked it. But it was an upstream swim for me initially.

Not knowing where to start can be a downer. Especially for someone who does not have the concept of something else running on their PC in place of Windows.

The first thing that confuses a newcomer is that Linux is not a single operating system. There are hundreds of Linux distributions. We have covered why there are so many Linux in detail, so I am not going to discuss it again.

Here are a few lists of Linux distributions based on different criteria:

In addition to that, there are distributions that cater to the needs of newcomers especially. So, here, we shall focus on those options.

Best Linux Distros for Beginners

Please remember that this list is no particular order. The main criteria for compiling this list is the ease of installation, out of the box hardware support, ease of use, and availability of software packages.

1. Ubuntu

• Easy to use
• Unique user experience
• Huge collection of software applications available through the software center
• Essential tools pre-installed

You must have heard about Ubuntu — no matter what. It is the most popular Linux distribution overall. Not just limited to servers, but also the most popular choice for Linux desktops.

It is easy to use, offers a good user experience, and comes pre-installed with essential tools to get a head start. Of course, Ubuntu managed to “simplify” the Linux experience years back and that is the reason why it is still so popular even with several impressive Linux distributions available right now.

Ubuntu offers a very convenient installation procedure and ensures best hardware compatibility when compared to some other non-Ubuntu based Linux distributions.

The original Ubuntu relies on GNOME desktop. Even though it is easy to use, it may not prove to be a familiar user interface if you’re coming from the Windows platform. In that case, you can try out some official flavors of Ubuntu like Kubuntu, Lubuntu to get a Windows-like user interface.

Ubuntu has a great documentation and community support. Ubuntu forums and Ask Ubuntu provide an appreciable quality support in almost all aspects regarding Ubuntu. You should easily find answers to common issues and even if you notice something new, the community will help you out troubleshooting.

2. Linux Mint

• Familiar user interface with Windows
• Performs great with older hardware
• Some improvements over Ubuntu

Linux Mint is arguably the best Ubuntu-based Linux distribution suitable for beginners. Yes, it is based on Ubuntu, so you should expect the same advantages of using Ubuntu. However, instead of GNOME desktop, it offers different desktop environments like Cinnamon, Xfce, and MATE. In fact, Linux Mint does a few things better than Ubuntu.

Not just limited to the familiar user interface, which will be a bonus for Windows users. It provides an impressive performance with minimal hardware requirements, especially with Xfce or MATE desktop environment.

It also uses the same software repository as Ubuntu. You don’t have to worry about the availability of software to install.

Linux Mint is a fantastic Windows-like distribution. So, if you do not want a unique user interface (like Ubuntu), Linux Mint should be the perfect choice.

The most popular suggestion would be to go with Linux Mint Cinnamon edition. But, you can explore whatever you want. Also, you might want to look at our tutorial to install Linux Mint 20 from USB.

3. Zorin OS

• Windows-like user interface
• Intuitive user experience
• Easy to use
• Ultimate edition available with a lot of pre-installed goodies and Lite edition for older computers

Zorin OS is yet another impressive Linux distribution that offers a similar user interface to Windows. It may not be the most popular choice but being an Ubuntu-based distribution, it is perfectly suitable for beginners while offering many cool features as well.

Zorin OS is an Ubuntu-based distribution but feels highly polished. In my opinion, it is perfectly tailored for former Windows users who want a similar look and feel but something beautiful.

No wonder why Zorin OS is one of the most beautiful Linux distros out there.

The ultimate edition of Zorin OS is worth spending if you need all the pre-installed goodies (fun games, office suite, and some additional features). But, the free edition works like a charm as well.

You will also find a “Lite” edition which is suitable for old hardware that needs to be revived.

4. Elementary OS

Now that I mentioned a beautiful Linux distribution above, elementary OS is actually the most popular good-looking Linux distribution that takes inspiration from macOS.

Even though it is not a “macOS clone” in any aspect, it tries to focus on the user experience similar to how macOS does (or should). If you are coming from the Apple ecosystem, you would love to try elementary OS for sure.

Again, it is based on Ubuntu, so you get all the benefits of it along with a rich user experience.

Elementary OS features the Pantheon desktop environment. You can immediately notice the resemblance to macOS desktop.

The operating system is zero intrusive so you can really focus on your work. It comes with a very small number of pre-installed software. So, any new user will not be repulsed by huge bloat. But it’s got everything you need out of the box. The App Center is also unique when compared to other Linux distributions.

You will find some elementary OS tailored applications and can choose to pay the developer through the software store as well.

Experience wise, Elementary OS is really a great piece of software.

5. Linux Lite

Linux Lite is yet another Ubuntu-based distribution that is easy to use. It is specifically tailored as a lightweight distribution with some pre-installed applications that are not resource-heavy.

Linux Lite is perfectly suitable for Windows users with a similar user interface featuring the Xfce desktop environment. Compared to its previous iterations, Linux Lite has improved the user experience. Even though it isn’t meant to provide you the most modern experience, it still looks great as a desktop OS.

6. Manjaro Linux

• Not an Ubuntu-based distribution
• Arch-based Linux distribution
• Presents a learning curve

If you want to take up a challenge with a learning curve and want to try something else other than a distribution based on Ubuntu, Manjaro Linux is the best bet.

It is based on Arch Linux but tailored as a beginner-friendly distribution. Of course, considering that it follows a rolling release update cycle, you might end up with a broken system (even though that does not happen all the time). But, you have to compromise on the reliability when compared to any Ubuntu based Linux distribution mentioned in this list.

You also get a wide range of choice to install a variety of software tools. There’s also AUR, which is a community-maintained repository for software that may not be available for Manjaro officially.

If you want to know more about it, you may want to check out our detailed review of Manjaro Linux.

Manjaro Linux offers different desktop environments like XFCE, KDE, Gnome, Cinnamon and a host of more desktop environments. So, you get a lot of choices.

7. Pop!_OS

• Improved user experience when compared to Ubuntu
• Extra out-of-the-box features like Auto window tiling to help with fast multi-tasking

Pop OS is probably the best Ubuntu-based Linux distribution if you’re not looking for a lightweight Linux distribution.

It provides a polished and snappy experience when compared to Ubuntu GNOME edition. You also get some interesting features like automatic window tiling, window stacking, and a few more with Pop OS.

You also get a vanilla GNOME experience on Pop OS when compared to Ubuntu. However, unlike some other options, it does not officially support other desktop environments out of the box. So, if you do not like GNOME, you may have to manually try other desktop environments as an experiment. You might find the review of Pop OS 20.04 useful to explore more about it.

8. Peppermint OS

Peppermint Linux is an interesting choice for beginners who prefer to use web applications as local applications using the out-of-the-box integration with Ice.

It is based on Ubuntu, so along with all the goodies of Ubuntu it features a few extra options to give you a head start. It isn’t pitched as a lightweight distro, but it works quite well with older hardware as well.

9. Deepin

If performance or hardware requirement does not bother you, Deepin OS will be an interesting pick. It is known for its eye-candy user interface that is one of the most gorgeous Linux distributions out there.

Of course, it suffers from performance issues if you do not have a decent modern hardware configuration. But, if it works well on your system, it is easy to use and offers plenty of software tools to get started.

Some might mention that just because it is a project with based out of Mainland China, you need to avoid it. So, if you have an issue with that, you might take a look at UbuntuDDE (which is basically Ubuntu + eye-candy visuals of Deepin)

Your choice for the best Linux distro for beginners?

Linux might come with a tiny learning curve, but that’s not something anybody ever regretted. Go ahead, you will love it like I do!

To give you a head start, I would recommend you to follow Ubuntu 20.04 installation guide and refer how to install a distro from USB.

If you are already a Linux user, do share this article and help someone fall in love with Linux. What do you think about the distributions tailored for beginners mentioned above? Do you have a suggestion? Let me know in the comments below!

Like what you read? Please share it with others.

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Best Linux distributions which look like Windows 11/10

Once you have understood the pros and cons while shifting from Windows to Linux and decided in favor of the latter, the tougher part would be adjusting with the new environment. Thankfully, there are a few distributions of Linux which have an interface similar to that of Windows. While no Linux distribution can be like Windows 11/10, many of them do follow the Windows 7 model.

Linux distributions which look like Windows OS

Here are some Windows look-alike Linux distributions which you may like:

1. Zorin OS
2. Chalet OS
3. Kubuntu
4. Robolinux
5. Linux Mint

If you want to learn more about these operating systems, continue reading.

1] Zorin OS

This is perhaps one of the most Windows-like distribution of Linux. It is somewhat a replica of Windows 7, with the Start menu, Taskbar, etc. The speed of the OS distribution is appreciable. Zorin OS comes with a few pre-loaded utility apps that would make your job easier. Zorin can be downloaded from its website here.

2] Chalet OS

Chalet OS is the nearest we have to Windows Vista. Complete with the widgets and menus, the distribution is simple to use, yet efficient. Chalet’s Start menu is similar to that of Windows XP. It is basic and easy to handle. You can find a similar File Explorer in this distribution, which looks like the one of Windows 11/10. The latest version of the operating system is available here.

3] Kubuntu

While Kubuntu is a Linux distribution, it is a technology somewhere in between Windows and Ubuntu. Rather, the shift from Windows to Ubuntu is quite steep, so you could consider Kubuntu instead. Check more about it on the company’s website here.

4] Robolinux

If you miss Windows applications on your Linux distribution, Robolinux will allow you to install the same without any hassle. You can also copy your whole C: drive from Windows to Robolinux. Cool, isn’t it! The distribution can be downloaded from the company’s website here.

5] Linux Mint

One reason I included Linux Mint in this list is the because it’s versatile. Most Linux distributions are known for their speed and simplicity, while Windows has a lot more options. Linux Mint is pretty versatile. It is the nearest to Windows 11/10 amongst all Linux distributions. Get it from its website here.

Which Linux distribution is most like Windows?

As there are multiple Linux distributions, you can switch among various distributions to find the most suitable one for you. However, when it comes to the app’s availability, workflow, security, etc., you can trust Zorin OS, Chalet OS, Kubuntu, Linux Mint, etc.

What is the best Linux alternative to Windows 11/10?

If you have never used Linux before, it is recommended to start your journey with Ubuntu. You can find tons of apps, the user interface is very user-friendly, and so on. However, if you want to download a Linux distribution that looks like Windows 11/10, you may opt for Zorin OS or Linux Mint.

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13 Most Beautiful Linux Distros That You’ll Love [2021 Edition]

L inux users have the liberty to enjoy unparalleled freedom while choosing the Linux distributions as per their needs. Using different open source technologies, the developers keep creating something new and surprising for enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll be listing some of the most beautiful Linux distros that will not fail to impress you.

If you’re looking for a perfect and good-looking Windows replacement or distro hopping, at the end of this article, we’re pretty sure you’ll decide to install at least one of the distros. Let’s get started:

Most Beautiful Linux Operating Systems For 2021

1. elementary OS

After Linux Mint and Zorin OS, elementary OS is probably the most popular Ubuntu-derivative. It promotes itself as a “fast and open” replacement for macOS and Windows. There are tons of Linux distros around that are widely used, but elementary OS focuses mainly on non-technical users who are fed up with Windows, and young developers who are new to the open-source world. Its development started as a set of themes and apps designed for Ubuntu, so the visual appeal shouldn’t turn out to be surprising.

This beautiful Linux distro borrows some tricks from macOS for its slick interface that prefers to deliver a clutter-free experience to the users. The OS ships without many default Ubuntu applications, replacing them with many lightweight alternatives. It comes with the homegrown Pantheon desktop environment that looks polished and delivers with a lightweight experience. In case you’re having a tough time adapting to Ubuntu’s recent shift from Unity, you can give elementary OS a try.

Why use elementary OS?

• macOS-like look
• Lightweight and efficient DE
• Selected set of applications

2. Kubuntu

Kubuntu was the first Linux distros that I tried and I was left surprised by how amazing KDE really is for people who value customizations over everything else. As you might have guessed by the name, it is also an Ubuntu-based distro.

Everything from the UI to the animations is extremely polished and definitely feels a notch above and different from the other distros. As soon as you log in, you’ll be greeted with a splash screen and then a beautiful wallpaper that will definitely leave a smile on your face. It is also very stable thanks to Ubuntu. Overall, it is one of the best-looking distros on this list.

Why choose Kubuntu?

• Highly customizable KDE desktop environment
• Rock-solid stability
• Ease of use

3. Feren OS

Feren OS is based on Linux Mint. What makes it one of the most visually attractive Linux distro is its tweaked Cinnamon desktop environment. It promises to deliver an experience that’ll match beat aesthetics of macOS and Windows operating systems. Feren OS is a rolling release Linux distribution.

The look and feel of Feren OS are familiar; there are a Windows-like start button and taskbar that have all the useful icons. The start menu is intuitively designed as clicking on an option opens a submenu. The Theme Changer tool lets you play with icons, setup, background, etc., so, do check it out. Overall, Feren OS, apart from being a beautiful Linux distribution and eye candy, it’s familiar and innovative.

Why use feren OS?

• Familiar desktop, start menu
• Clean, flat design
• Modern looks, beginner friendly

4. Linux Mint

Aimed at providing the best experience possible for users switching from Windows, Linux Mint doesn’t shy away from looking good. The Cinnamon desktop environment in Linux Mint has grown exponentially and is now better than ever.

Coming to its looks, you can evidently say that it has a Windows XP’ish feel to it. Thanks to the Ubuntu base, it is also extremely rock solid. Overall, it’s a pretty good-looking distro for beginners who’re just starting out with Linux.

If you want to install Linux Mint alongside Windows, do make sure to check out our how to Dual-boot Linux Mint with Windows 10 article

Why choose Mint?

• Great distro for Windows users
• Easy to use
• Cinnamon Desktop looks and feels great

5. Deepin

Deepin Linux is an open-source, Chinese Linux distribution that aims to offer a clean and visually appealing interface to Linux users. The new versions of the operating system take a lot of inspiration from Apple’s macOS and the implementation is very well done. It features a homegrown desktop named “Deepin Desktop Environment,” or DDE.

Deepin Linux, one the prettiest Linux distros around, also comes with Hot Corners and Gestures that make your Linux desktop experience refreshing. Another striking feature of Deepin is its pleasing installer, which makes sure that your experience isn’t sub-par at any stage. It comes with Deepin Store that provides lots of applications that aren’t available in the Ubuntu Store.

Why choose Deepin?

• Innovative features
• Visual appeal
• Deepin Store
• Simple and easy-to-use installer

6. Solus OS

While this list features many derivatives of popular Linux distros, Solus tries to set itself apart from that crowd. In a very short period of time, Solus has established itself as one of the fastest growing and coolest Linux distros around. It follows the minimalist approach and sports a flat and modern look. It earns the tag of one of the most breathtaking Linux distros around with the help of its Budgie desktop environment.

Budgie desktop is built on top of GNOME but it doesn’t feature Shell. There’s the main menu to access the available applications. On the right side of the screen, you get Raven, which hosts applets, notifications, etc. Solus isn’t exclusively being marketed as the best distro for developers but, it does come with a lot of developer tools built-in.

Why choose Solus?

• One of the fastest-growing new distros
• Budgie desktop
• Support for Snaps
• Things just work out of the box

7. Chrome OS

Users who aren’t well acquainted with Linux or Chrome OS will be surprised to see this entry on the list of best-looking Linux distros. For those who don’t know, Chrome OS is actually a Gentoo Linux-based distribution created by Google. Consider Google Chrome as its desktop environment and it mainly supports web applications.

Credits: PCMag

So, if you’re looking for a neat, clean-looking option for regular web browsing and video streaming purposes, Chrome OS is the perfect option. Google also made it easier to run Linux apps on Chrome OS and made Chromebooks even more appealing.

Why Chrome OS?

• Lots of low-cost Chromebook options to choose from
• Perfect for web-centric workloads
• Always-synced Google account on all devices — it’s only a positive if you prefer that kind of thing

8. Nitrux

Nitrux is the newest Linux distro on this list of most beautiful operating systems for 2021. You’ll take a single look at the distro and find that it has been created with design in mind. It’s worth noting that Nitrux is based on the Ubuntu unstable dev branch and ships with the Nomad Desktop environment.

The developers of Nitrux OS have worked hard to distinguish themselves from the usual crop of Linux distros shipping with KDE desktop. It’s also important to mention that the same team behind the current Nitrux distribution had previously created another distro with the same name. This cool distro ships with custom-made software. It’s based on a rolling release model and only available for 64-bit systems.

Why choose Nitrux OS?

• Own custom-made apps
• Beautiful desktop UI
• Minimalist approach

9. KDE Neon

If you are a KDE loyalist who is looking for a beautiful and lightweight Linux experience, look no further. KDE Neon calls itself the provider of the latest and greatest KDE software packaged on a rock solid Ubuntu LTS base. As for the looks, KDE Neon developers know how to master the flat-looking themes. There are a number of useful widgets that you can add to the desktop with ease. Distro’s menu is straightforward and user-friendly.

The strength of KDE Neon also lies in its promise of delivering a rock solid desktop with its cutting edge features. With this good looking Linux distro, you get the stability of LTS, get all the stuff done, and enjoy a slick experience. The software choice too is pretty balanced. Go ahead and try this Linux eye candy as your daily driver.

Now, if you’re confused about what’s the difference between Kubuntu and KDE Neon; when new features are added to KDE to get them you’ll have to wait for Canonical to update Ubuntu whereas KDE Neon is a rolling release and you get to try the new features as soon as a new update is released.

Why use KDE Neon?

• Latest KDE software
• Solid Ubuntu LTS base
• Bug-free, beautiful, flat theme

10. Pop!_OS

System76’s Pop!_OS has outnumbered a lot of Linux distros on this list in terms of popularity and is one of the most beautiful Linux distributions. It came into existence when Canonical decided to ditch Unity and move to GNOME.

While its desktop is based on GNOME, it bears a distinct appeal and minimalistic approach. If you’re bored with your current desktop and an Ubuntu-based and cool-looking Linux distro appeals to you, look no further.

Why choose Pop!_OS?

• Fresh look, minimalist approach
• Soothing color themes
• Designed for creatives in the computer science field

11. Zorin OS

Zorin OS is one of the most popular Linux distros on this list for 2021. Started in 2008, over the years, this visually appealing Linux desktop has established itself as a perfect Windows replacement. Zorin OS is based on Ubuntu, hence you won’t need to learn new stuff. The installation process is also very similar to Ubuntu.

This Linux distro also comes with a useful set of applications that make your daily life easier. Zorin also comes with built-in Wine compatibility layer to let you install your favorite Windows applications inside Linux. Shipped with the GNOME desktop, Zorin really shines and aims to become your daily driver.

Why choose Zorin OS?

• Resembles Windows
• Great support and very stable
• Polished and rock solid Linux desktop experience

12. Manjaro Linux

Manjaro is my favorite Linux distribution and keeps popping up in almost all many lists of best Linux distros due to its versatility, speed, great looks, low-resource usage, and performance. Based on Arch Linux, this beautiful open-source operating system focuses a lot on making the Linux usage experience a lot smoother. The primary Xfce desktop with Manjaro tweaks looks very pleasing with its green theme.

Why choose Manjaro?

• A very helpful and fast-growing community
• The versatile distro that’s easy to use
• Fast and lightweight

13. Ubuntu

Well, would you look at what we have here. A contender that you probably never expected to see on this list, Ubuntu. I’ve already mentioned Ubuntu over a thousand times before and here I am again. Ubuntu is the sole reason for the existence of most of the distros on this list.

The upcoming Ubuntu 21.04 Hirsute Hippo beta is out and, while it doesn’t ship with GNOME 40, from a beginner’s point of view, it might still look like a pretty good-looking Linux distro for daily use.

If you want to know the new features in Hirsute Hippo or GNOME 40, make sure to check out our Ubuntu 21.04 Hirsute Hippo features and GNOME 40 features.

Why choose Ubuntu?

• Great for beginners
• Rock-solid stability
• Great customization options

Which One Do You Think Is The Prettiest?

That’s pretty much it in this most beautiful Linux distros article. If you’ve made it this far, you probably know which one to pick.

The distros on this list are just the thin end of the wedge. Do you know distros that deserve to be on this list? Let us know in the comments section below.

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