Are you looking for a Linux distro that’s suitable for new users who are willing to start an exciting Linux journey? Well, you’re at the right place. These days, Linux Mint is giving a tough competition to Ubuntu as it’s very beginner-friendly. Our other top recommendations are Zorin OS (which looks a lot like Windows operating system) and lightweight Linux Lite.
The beauty of Linux lies in the plethora of option available to the users. While some call it Linux distro fragmentation, I love to call it Linux’s strength. It allows the users to choose a Linux distro suitable for their needs and learn new things. The same choice allows one to find a beginner-friendly Linux distro, gaming distro, gaming distro, etc.. So, without further delay, let me tell you about the most suitable Linux distros for new users:7 Best Linux Distributions For Beginners or New Users
1. Linux Mint
Linux Mint is one of the most popular Linux distributions around. Over the years, it has grown to become one of the chief competitors of Ubuntu Linux, its parent operating system. It’s known to provide one of the most polished and complete desktop experiences to a beginner. If someone asks me to recommend the best Linux distro for beginners, I promptly say Linux Mint.
So, what has inspired this answer? Does Linux Mint work just like Windows operating system? Well, the answer lies in the fact that Linux Mint was created with a goal to provide an out-of-the-box experience to the newbies. Unlike many other Linux distros, you don’t need to install plugins, media codecs, components like Java, etc. This means that it really cares about the average and new users. It turns out to be equally good on laptops and powerful desktops. In my experience, Linux Mint also turns out to be the best Linux distro for Windows users who are making a shift to the world of Linux.
There are four major editions of Linux Mint: Cinnamon, MATE, KDE, Xfce
Why Choose Linux Mint?
- Near perfect desktop experience
- Cinnamon desktop is a great option
- Full access to Ubuntu software repo
- Great community
- Out-of-box codecs plugins
Visit Linux Mint’s website here.
2. Ubuntu
If you’re a regular reader of Fossbytes or a Linux enthusiast, Ubuntu needs no introduction. In the past, I’ve also written a dedicated post on the benefits of Ubuntu. Many of those benefits can also be listed as the reasons to call Ubuntu as one of best Linux distros for new users. This Debian-based Linux distribution also enjoys the status of the most popular open source operating system in the world. Recently, even Microsoft ported official Ubuntu binaries in its Windows 10 operating system to enable the Linux subsystem in Windows.
Due to its popularity, Ubuntu gets all the attention it deserves. Every new release is more polished and comes loaded with new features and improvements. Many PC makers like Dell and System76 design specific series of machines that come with preinstalled Ubuntu Linux. After conquering the desktop world, Ubuntu has also managed to gain big in the cloud. But, it’s a tale that we’ll discuss in another article. Another thing, its releases come with the latest kernel, that’s why it supports a huge range of hardware.
The recognized Ubuntu flavors are Ubuntu, Ubuntu GNOME, Ubuntu Kylin, Edubuntu, Lubuntu, Xubuntu, Ubuntu MATE, Ubuntu Studio, Ubuntu Budgie
Why Choose Ubuntu?
- Tons of free software in Software Center
- Vast Ubuntu community
- Lots of flavors to suit your needs
- Compatible with most hardware
Visit Linux Ubuntu’s website here.
3. Zorin OS
While one can argue that Canonical has worked hard to develop Ubuntu and make it popular, there are many other operating system developers who have dedicated themselves to create one of the finest Linux distros for beginners. Apart from Linux Mint, Zorin OS is another major player that has focused itself on user-friendliness and usability.
Zorin OS calls itself a replacement for Windows and macOS. It comes loaded with everything that one needs to complete daily tasks. With a Windows-like interface that’s built with beginners in mind, Zorin OS is easily the best Linux distro for Windows users. Its Windows 10-styled desktop is great at making things easier for a Windows lover. It also ships with a skinned version of Ubuntu Software that answers a beginner’s most software needs.
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