If you’re thinking of getting into the world of Linux, you’ll be happy to learn that there are hundreds, if not more, distributions to meet your needs. However, some are more comfortable for beginners to use than others.
While Linux itself is just a kernel, thedistrosand operating systems that use Linux as their kernel can have different desktop environments (DEs), package managers, release models, and target audiences. Each of these things can impact the newcomer-friendliness of a distro. Another significant aspect of a distro that can matter a lot to a novice is its community. A large and active community can be a big help when you get stuck trying something on Linux.
Here are some of the best Linux distributions that I believe will suit most Linux newcomers.
5Linux Mint
Linux Mint, often touted as the most beginner-friendly Linux distro, is a comforting choice forthose transitioning from Windows. Its desktop environments, including the flagship Cinnamon, offer a familiar interface, making you feel right at home. The straightforward installation process and easy-to-understand options, including additional proprietary drivers and multimedia codecs, ensure a smooth start to your Linux journey.
The default installation has all the essentials you may need out of the box, and the Software Manager provides access to thousands of apps. There is built-in support for both DEB and Flatpak packages, and if you want, you can also enable Snap support.
Mint is based onUbuntu’s Long-Term Support (LTS) releases, providing you with rock-solid stability and a long support period. Moreover, you have access to a large, active community to help you out when you hit a snag.
Best for
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4Ubuntu
Ubuntu, known asthe most popular Linux distribution, is an excellent choice for beginners due to its massive user base and active community. This extensive support system, including official forums, subreddits, and the Ubuntu Wiki, ensures that you’ll always find help when you need it, making your transition to Linux smoother.
While Ubuntu’s GNOME desktop environment may not resemble Windows or macOS at first glance, many of its components share visual similarities with both competing operating systems. Therefore, it won’t be a massive learning curve to adapt to Ubuntu. Once you get the hang of its workflow, it can be pretty intuitive.
Thanks in large part to its popularity, Ubuntu has access to a vast repository of apps and utilities. The distro also has excellent hardware support, which ensures you won’t typically have a hard time finding drivers for your computer components and peripherals.
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3Zorin OS (Core)
Zorin OSis another great option for Linux novices, as it’s specifically designed for newcomers. Its default interface is easy to use and will feelquite familiar to Windows users. you may also tweak the OS appearance to make it more comfortable for you.
It’s based on Ubuntu LTS releases and comes with all the essential apps most computer users need. For more, there is always the platform’s software center that has a clean and minimal design. Like Linux Mint, Zorin doesn’t push Snap packages by default and supports DEB and Flatpak repositories. But you can enable Snap support if needed.
Another Zorin highlight is its Windows App Support package, which is built on top of theWine compatibility layerandthe Bottles appto deliver a seamless experience for running Windows programs.
Zorin OS boasts a modern and polished design, indicating that the developers have invested considerable effort in making it aesthetically pleasing.
Finally, if you have older hardware, you’re able to opt for Zorin OS Lite, a variant that utilizes theXfce desktop environment. However, Zorin plans to discontinue the Lite variant with version 19.
Download Zorin OS (Core)orLite
2Pop!_OS
Popular among creators, developers, and gamers,Pop!_OSis a Linux distro based on Ubuntu. One of its biggest highlights is thesuperior hardware support, especially for NVIDIA GPUs. It offers a dedicated ISO image with built-in NVIDIA drivers, providing a seamless configuration to enjoy your discrete GPU.
It uses a heavily customized version of the GNOME desktop environment that looks refined and distraction-free. If you’re seeking a modern and visually appealing distribution, Pop!_OS won’t disappoint you.
Like my other Ubuntu-based recommendations, it supports “.deb” andFlatpak packagesand packs a solid software center. There is also no Snap support by default, but you can enable the same if you want.
Another feature that Linux newcomers will appreciate is the creation of a recovery partition by default during the OS installation. So, if you unfortunately end up messing up your Pop!_OS install, you can restore it to its original state by using the recovery function.
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1Fedora
Unlike my other recommendations,Fedoraisn’t based on any other distro and is its own thing. It remains at theforefront of Linux developmentsby incorporating the latest stable versions of the software. So, if you are someone who wants to try out the latest without compromising on stability, Fedora is an excellent option.
Although Fedora’s flagship Workstation release utilizes the GNOME desktop environment, it offers various spins that employ other popular desktop environments, includingKDE Plasma, Cinnamon, and Xfce. For most beginners, I recommend starting with the Cinnamon spin. It’ll feel more familiar, especially coming from Windows. However, if you’re okay with a bit of relearning, GNOME is an excellent option.
It also has a vast and well-maintained software repository. Moreover, you’ll have access to a large community to help you out. Keep in mind, unlike Debian/Ubuntu and many of their derivatives, Fedora usesthe RPM package formatand the DNF package manager. You also get support for the Flatpak app package manager.
Download Fedora with GNOMEorCinnamon
Which Distro Should You Choose?
Thanks to a fantastic selection of Linux distributions that target newcomers or are generally easier to use, beginners have a wide range of choices. You can choose a distro with a familiar interface to the OS you’re coming from or opt for something that pushes you beyond your comfort zone.
For most Linux novices coming from Windows, Linux Mint and Zorin OS are two excellent options. Both offer a familiar layout and are ready for everyday tasks out of the box. Gamers will appreciate Pop!_OS and its NVIDIA-specific ISO images for seamless installation and driver support. Ubuntu is a well-balanced distribution, making it an excellent choice whether you just need something for everyday tasks or want a distro for gaming or programming. Its strong community is undoubtedly a plus point.
Fedora is ideal if you want to experience the latest in Linux development and are comfortable with a faster release cycle.
If you’re still unsure, why not try these Linux distros before installing them? There aremultiple ways to get a taste of Linux, including runninga distro in a virtual machine.
How to Get Started
Once you’ve finalized a Linux distribution, you can download its ISO image using the links I’ve shared. You’ll use this ISO to create a bootable USB drive to continue with the installation. Several tools are available for this purpose, and some distributions even offer their own specialized tools. However,RufusandbalenaEtcherare two solid options that won’t let you down. You can use Rufus on Windows, whereas Etcher issuitable for all popular operating systems.Ventoyisanother handy toolfor creating a bootable USB drive. It allows you to copy as many ISOs as you want.
Before installing your chosen Linux distribution, it’s essential toback up any critical filesfrom your existing operating system. Once you have backed up your computer, it’s time to insert the bootable USB drive and begin the installation. Ourhow to install Linux guidewill undoubtedly be helpful in your quest.
