6 Best Linux Distros for Beginners who to migrate from Windows
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For Windows users who want to try migrating to Linux, if you are still hesitant to choose an operating system foundation you are not alone.
Choosing the right distro is the most important step. Some Linux distros have a Windows-like UI and UX, making it easier to use.
On this article, Here are the 6 best Linux distro recommendations up to the time of , for newbie user looking to make the switch from Windows.
1. Linux Mint#

- Best Choice for Windows Users
Linux Mint. a distro suitable for migrating with a familiar look and interface similar to Windows, presents an easy-to-use experience because it is based on Ubuntu, suitable for beginners and minimalists.
Linux mint has several iso editions, including:
Cinnamon Edition
Sleek, modern, innovative
Xfce Edition
Light, simple, efficient
MATE Edition
Classic, traditional
2. Ubuntu#

– Populer, Stabil, dan Kompatibel
Ubuntu. the most popular Linux distro with extensive community support. It’s stable, has more compatible software, making it a top choice for beginners and developers alike. However, the GNOME interface can feel heavy on low-spec devices.
Here are the advantages of ubuntu in several ways:
Most popular distro with a large community
Updates and long-term support (LTS)
Suitable for general use and development
Ubuntu has several iso variants, including the following:
Gnome
Flavours
3. MX Linux#

- Lightweight, Debian-based, Stable
MX Linux is a Debian-based distro that is known for being very lightweight and stable. Equipped with a variety of useful system tools, MX Linux is suitable for users who want a fast and efficient system. However, its interface may feel less modern compared to Ubuntu or Linux Mint.
Xfce
Fluxbox
Fluxbox unites the speed, low resource use
KDE
KDE is well known for its advanced desktop Plasma
4. Zorin OS#

- Most similar to Windows, Easy to Use
Zorin OS, a Linux distro designed to feel like Windows, making it suitable for beginners. The free version is quite comprehensive, although some additional features are only available on the paid version. The community is also smaller than Ubuntu or Linux Mint, but it’s still an interesting option for Windows users who want to try Linux.
Here are some of the advantages that Zorin Os has:
The interface can be customized to look like Windows
Comes with familiar built-in applications
Light and fast performance
But Zorin Os has the following disadvantages including:
The free version has limited compared to the paid version (Zorin OS Pro)
Unpopular than Ubuntu or Linux Mint, hence a smaller community
It’s based on Ubuntu LTS, so software updates are not always up to date.
Zorin Os has several editions including::
Core
Edu
With educational software for schools and students.
Pro
premium experience with additional features.
5. Pop!_OS#

- Optimal for Productivity and Gaming
Pop!_OS, an Ubuntu-based distro developed by System76. This distro is designed for high productivity with features such as auto-tiling window manager and built-in NVIDIA driver support. Pop!_OS is perfect for users who need a fast system for multitasking and gaming. However, since it is based on Ubuntu, some applications may still rely on Snap, which could be less efficient for some users.
Here are the advantages of Pop!_OS for performance:
High performance with custom optimizations
Built-in NVIDIA drivers for gaming
Modern and minimalist look
Here are some isos that Pop!_OS has including:
LTS
LTS (NVIDIA)
With nvidia gpu for performance.
6. Manjaro#

- Ease of Arch Linux for Beginners
Manjaro offers a more user-friendly Arch Linux experience. With its rolling release model, users always get the latest software, as well as access to the vast Arch User Repository (AUR). However, due to the constant updates, there is a possibility of bugs after updates, making it more suitable for mid-level users and above.
Here are Manjaro’s advantages in several conditions:
Rolling release with high stability
Access to the latest software packages with AUR
Easier installation compared to Arch Linux installation
KDE
GNOME
modern desktop, easy and intuitive to learn.
XFCE
lightweight desktop. fast and low on system resources, while being rock solid.
Cinnamon
traditional desktop conventions. recommended for beginners.
Conclusion#
Here’s a comparison of each distro
Distro | Major Advantages | Disadvantages | Suitable for |
---|---|---|---|
Linux Mint | Windows-like appearance, stable, lightweight | Not always updated to the latest software | Windows users who want an easy transition |
Ubuntu | Most popular, many tutorials | GNOME heavy, Snap controversial | Beginners who want broad support |
MX Linux Lightweight, Debian-based, stable | Not as modern as Ubuntu, smaller community | Users who need a lightweight & stable system | |
Manjaro | Rolling release, AUR access, more user-friendly than Arch | Updates can cause bugs | Intermediate users who want the flexibility of Arch |
Pop!_OS Optimal for gaming and productivity | Small community, frequent updates | Gamers and high productivity users | |
Zorin OS | Windows-like interface, lightweight | Limited free version, small community | Users who want the Windows look |
Which Distro to Choose?#
As I’ve explained before, it all depends on the needs of each user. But I recommend one of the 6 above
FAQ#
Which Linux distro looks the most like Windows?
Linux Mint and Zorin OS are the two best choices as they have a familiar look for Windows users.
What is the best distro for older laptops?
MX Linux is a very lightweight and stable option for laptops with low specifications. Other alternatives are Linux Mint XFCE or Lubuntu.
Can Linux be used for gaming?
Yes, especially with Steam Proton and Lutris. Pop!_OS, Manjaro, and Ubuntu are some distros that strongly support gaming.
Can I run Microsoft Office on Linux?
Not directly, but you can use alternatives like LibreOffice or run Microsoft Office via Wine or PlayOnLinux.
What is the best distro for beginners?
Ubuntu and Linux Mint are the two best choices as they are easy to use and have many tutorials and active communities.