Do you want to switch from Windows 10/7 or macOS, but looking for some best beginners’ Linux distros to install on your laptop or pc, then here are some options…
The days were gone when Linux was just a command line with a simple GUI meant to use by only geeks. Now, there are so many popular open-source distributions are available that are not only beautiful and easy to understand but also offer an inbuilt software manager to install various software with just one click.
Also, the installation of Linux OS is not complicated anymore, most of the available ones come with a GUI installer. However, if you are new to Linux and don’t know which one to choose out of dozens available out there then here are some hank-picked ones to ponder upon.
Top 5 Best Linux Distributions for Beginners in 2021
Well, Ubuntu and Debian are always there to use by newcomers, however, they might need somewhat more in terms of package management and interface, so here are some.
1. Zorin OS- Windows 10 like UI
Zorin OS is one of the best Linux distributions with a similar interface to Microsoft Windows. It is specially designed for new Linux users who are switching from Windows 10/7 or macOS and looking for the best alternative in Linux distros. Just like Linux Mint, the Zorin Os is also a derivative of Ubuntu, which means you can run all the Debian software, either by using the GUI software manager or command line via APT.
It is available in three editions- Ultimate, Core, Lite, and Education. Zorin OS also offers almost everything you need to get started, in addition to Firefox, Chromium, Opera as a browser, there is also a media player, mail client, LibreOffice office suite, multi-messenger, and image processing.
The Core edition along with others is available to download free of cost. However, the Ultimate version of Zorin OS is available at $39 because developers of the Zorin have loaded it with additional desktop layouts and a larger app scope, as well as pre-installed open source games.
Ther is also a light edition that is also available as a 64-bit image (ISO) and a 32-bit image (ISO) and is aimed specifically at users with older systems – with an age of up to 15 years.
Key Points note:
- Beautiful Linux with Interface similar to Windows 10
- Offers macOS like dock as well
- Out of the box, all applications a user needs
- Available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of old laptops and PCs
2. Linux Mint- Windows 7 alternative
Whenever we talk about the best Linux distros for new users or beginners, the Linux Mint will be there. It is because of Windows 7 like interface, stability, and compatibility with all major open-source software and packages. Out of the box, Linux Mint comes with all applications we need to perform day-to-day tasks such as LibreOffice, Firefox, Music & Video players, and more.
The best thing is because based on Ubuntu, beginners can easily find hundreds of tutorials and guides to learn Linux Mint and command line in a better way. Unlike Ubuntu that uses GNOME, Linux is available in Cinnamon, Xfce, and MATE. However, Cinnamon is much popular among netizens.
This Windows-like Linux also offers an inbuilt software manager to install the applications easily without using a command-line terminal. If you are ready to give it a try then see our article- Download and create Linux Mint latest version bootable USB drive…
Key points to remember in Linux Mint
- Windows 7 Like Interface
- Support of Ubuntu Community tutorial and guides
- Stability
3. MX Linux- A fast alternative to Ubuntu
MX Linux for beginners is relatively a new one as compared to Ubuntu, however, much faster than it, and being a mid-weight operating system can be installed on low-resource PC or laptops as well. It is available with Xfce4, KDE, and Fluxbox as GUI Desktops, Xfce4 & Fluxbox are for those who want MX Linux to remain lightweight and snappy whereas KDE suits people who would like to have a beautiful interface without compromising the system’s performance.
It is based on Debian and antiX, “MX Linux” and an interesting distribution that is becoming more and more popular.
“MX Linux” has many features to make working with Linux easier for you. For example, you can install it on a USB stick directly using its built-in tool called “MX Live USB Generation” and then always carry it with you. Owners of Nvidia graphics cards will be pleased that they can download a proprietary driver. Furthermore, it has a software manager and an extra repo as well. Download MX Linux
Key things:
- Fast Linux distro
- Stability and easy to use
- Fast package installation via MX Test Repo, Debian Backports, and Flatpaks.
- Fluxbox for low hardware powered machines
- 64-bit and 32-bit versions
Learn –How to install Slax Linux Distro on USB
4. Elementary OS- macOS like
This one is inspired by macOS, that’s why if you are already an Apple OS desktop or laptop user then you would feel similar in terms of appearance. Elementary OS uses the Pantheon desktop environment along with its own App Center to offer various packages for installation. However, by default there would not be a wide range of applications and the users have to get them installed as per their needs.
People usually love it because of its sleek interface and based on Ubuntu, thus they have two benefits in one. However, Windows users perhaps take some time to adapt it due to the dock and top Taskbar placement.
Key points to remember for this beginner-friendly Linux
- macOS similar rich and sleek interface
- AppCenter to easily install software
- Fewer apps out of the box
Also See: 4 Best Lightweight Linux Distros to Install on USB
5. Manjaro -Arch-based Linux
Some people could debate how an Arch-based Linux distro can be a beginner and user-friendly Linux distribution. However, believe me, Manjaro is. First thing, it is available in multiple desktop environments such as Gnome, XFCE, KDE Plasma, Cinnamon, Mate, Budgie, LXDE, LxQT, OpenBox, i3, Bspwm, and Awesome. This removes the hassle of installing some Desktop environment in which a new user is comfortable, s/he can start with the one, they like, out of the box.
Second, inbuilt hardware detection will easily detect the hardware of the PC or laptop to install an open-source or propriety driver, for example, the one for Nvidia GPU.
In addition to the above, it comes with a Software Center that offers integration of multiple repositories such as official Arch, Snap, FlatPak, and even AUR. This gives users on Manjaro a wide range of package installation options that otherwise need to add an extra repo manually in other Linux operating systems.
However, as compared to other Linux given in this list of best open source OS for beginners, most of them are on Debian or Ubuntu. Whereas Manjaro is Arch-based, so this gives you a chance to expose yourself to something other than traditional RPM or DEB ones.
Arch Linux doesn’t have a huge source of online tutorials or guides, thus if some problem occurs, then sometimes the users would feel left out.
Well, if you are new to Linux, then give it a try, after all, what is the fun if you are switching to Linux and didn’t learn or face anything new. Download Manjaro Linux ISO
Key benefits of Manjaro Linux distro for Beginners
- Nice package Management using GUI software manager
- Rolling releases ensure the latest features
- Beginner-friendly Arch-based Linux distribution
- Mutilple Desktop Envrioenemtn options
- Few Learning curves will be there, especially while using the Command line
Know more about Manajro like OS- 9 Best Arch Based Distros with GUI for 2021
6. Deepin, best Linux UI for beginners
Deepin is mainly popular for its User interface which is quite refreshing in the world of Open-source operating systems. It is based on Debian and not only has a unique user interface but also comes with all applications you would require on your computer.
However, this needs a good resource or modern computer otherwise you would face some performance issues because of its highly sleeked icons and overall UI effects.
The OS doesn’t deprive of apps and also we can install all popular ones using its App Center, yet it is not much voguish among netizens because its origin is mainland China. However, that should not be a problem, if still for you, then you can use only the DEE Desktop environment on Ubuntu – Here is the tutorial on that- How to install Deepin DDE on Ubuntu 20.04
Deepin comes with several applications built via the DTK (Deepin Tool Kit) which are very nice such as music, player, screenshot tool, Screen Recorder, Remote Assistant, and more…
Key points to remember
- Nice and one of the best User interface
- Based on Debian
- Easy to use and understand
- Needs a good resource PC or laptop
- Comes with a load of user-friendly Apps
Closing thoughts on popular Linux for newcomers
Apart from these, you can also explore various Ubuntu versions such as Ubuntu KDE, and don’t forget Debian itself. However, if you go through the above list then you can start with either Zorin or Linux Mint and later Manjaro would be a nice option to go. After all, there is no best Linux distro for the beginner or advanced users, it all depends on your requirements and the one which could do your all jobs easily without making you annoying.
Other Articles:
- Top 10 Linux Distros of September 2020
- How to install Virtualbox on Manjaro Linux
- 3 Best free video players to download for Linux
- Install Clouds Windows 10 VM on Ubuntu
You just forgot Linux TT (free) and windowsFS (paid), (the nearest GNU/Linux faced as Windows).
Deepin was once a very nice and good OS but now the new distro is horrendous. App store doesn’t work, software won’t install and just takes a long time to load.