9 of the Best Linux Distros for Windows Users - Make Tech Easier

If you're just getting started with Linux or making the move from Windows, you’ll likely want a user-friendly, GUI-driven operating system that feels familiar. With so many Linux distributions available, some are specifically designed to mirror the Windows experience, easing the transition by offering a recognizable interface. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top Linux distros ideal for Windows users who are ready to make the switch.

Tip: Gamers should look into Linux distros with strong Steam support, such as SteamOS or Chimera OS.

Table of Contents

• 1. Top All-Around Pick: Kubuntu
• 2. Best for Beginners: Linux Mint
• 3. Top Debian-Based Option: MX Linux
• 4. Best Ubuntu-Based Choice: Zorin OS
• 5. Most User-Friendly: Elementary OS
• 6. Best for Compatibility: Qubes OS
• 7. Most Unique Option: Solus
• 8. Ideal for Older Hardware: Linux Lite
• 9. Best for Advanced Users: Fedora

1. Top All-Around Pick: Kubuntu

Kubuntu is essentially Ubuntu but powered by the KDE Plasma desktop environment, which delivers a classic, Windows-like interface—perfect for users coming from Windows. Unlike some minimalist Linux setups, Kubuntu includes a full suite of tools out of the box, including a file manager, text editor, and system utilities for hardware management.

Additionally, Kubuntu supports desktop widgets and extensions reminiscent of Windows 7 or even Rainmeter. You can add a live clock, system monitor, or other desklets to personalize your desktop and keep track of CPU usage, memory, and time.

2. Best for Beginners: Linux Mint

Linux Mint, built on Ubuntu, distinguishes itself by rolling back certain design choices made by Canonical. It offers three official editions, each centered on a different desktop environment: Cinnamon, MATE, and XFCE.

Cinnamon is the flagship edition, combining a sleek, modern look with a layout that feels instantly familiar to Windows users. It leverages GPU acceleration for smooth animations and visual effects like transparency and drop shadows, while maintaining a conventional desktop layout.

MATE provides a more retro experience, resembling the classic Windows XP interface. It’s lightweight and efficient, featuring a simple window manager and minimal visual effects—ideal for older systems.

XFCE, meanwhile, is optimized for performance. While less flashy than Cinnamon or MATE, it’s highly efficient and perfect for older or less powerful machines.

3. Top Debian-Based Option: MX Linux

MX Linux is a fast, stable, and secure Debian-based distribution that combines Debian Stable’s reliability with the lightweight XFCE desktop. This results in a responsive system that maximizes your hardware’s potential.

What sets MX Linux apart is its inclusion of visually appealing features. For example, it ships with Conky by default, allowing users to create customizable desktop widgets similar to Rainmeter on Windows—perfect for monitoring system stats in real time.

4. Best Ubuntu-Based Choice: Zorin OS

If you're fond of the Windows 10 or 11 interface, Zorin OS is an Ubuntu-powered distro designed to mimic that experience. It offers a polished, intuitive desktop that feels both modern and familiar.

By default, Zorin OS supports multiple desktop layouts, including a sleek GNOME 3 setup resembling macOS and a traditional Windows 10/11-style interface. This flexibility lets you tailor the look and feel to your preference.

Built from the ground up for Windows migrants, Zorin OS integrates Wine to run Windows applications natively. It also boasts excellent documentation, making system maintenance and troubleshooting straightforward—even for newcomers.

Good to know: Explore tools that let you build your own custom Linux distribution.

5. Most User-Friendly: Elementary OS

Elementary OS is a clean, minimalist Linux distro that both Windows 11 and macOS users will find instantly recognizable. Features like multitasking views, a “Do Not Disturb” mode, and picture-in-picture support enhance productivity and usability.

At its core, elementary OS is Ubuntu-based and runs the custom Pantheon desktop, which can emulate either macOS or Windows 11 aesthetics. It comes with native apps for email, web browsing, file management, and media playback.

The built-in AppCenter offers both free and paid applications, and when combined with Ubuntu’s vast software repositories, ensures you’ll never lack essential tools for your workflow.

6. Best for Compatibility: Qubes OS

Qubes OS is a security-focused Linux distribution that uses virtualization to isolate different parts of your system. It runs multiple secure virtual machines (called “qubes”) to separate tasks like browsing, work, and banking.

What makes Qubes OS stand out for Windows users is its ability to run Windows applications in a dedicated, isolated VM. This means you can use Windows-only software without exposing your main system to potential threats—ideal for privacy-focused users who still rely on certain Windows programs.

However, this advanced setup requires a modern CPU with virtualization support and at least 6 GB of RAM, so it’s not suitable for older hardware.

Tip: Discover how to host your own private Tor website for anonymous publishing online.

7. Most Unique Option: Solus

Solus is a standalone Linux distribution built specifically for desktops and laptops. It features the elegant Budgie desktop environment, which is intuitive and appealing to both new Linux users and long-time Windows users.

One of Solus’s standout features is its “curated rolling release” model. This means the system stays up-to-date with the latest software while maintaining stability through careful package selection.

It comes preloaded with useful apps like Firefox, Nautilus file manager, and GNOME MPV for media. Highly customizable and thoughtfully designed, Solus delivers a cohesive and enjoyable computing experience.

8. Ideal for Older Hardware: Linux Lite

For Windows users stuck with older PCs, Linux Lite is a lightweight, Debian-based distro that breathes new life into aging hardware. It’s fast, simple, and easy to use.

Powered by the XFCE desktop, Linux Lite offers a layout very similar to Windows 7, complete with a start menu and taskbar—making the transition seamless. Its intuitive interface is perfect for Linux newcomers, and since it’s lightweight, you won’t need to upgrade your machine every time a new version is released.

FYI: Check out other top lightweight Linux distros you can install today.

9. Best for Advanced Users: Fedora

Fedora is a cutting-edge Linux distribution that serves as the upstream source for Red Hat Enterprise Linux. It includes the latest kernel updates and supports the newest hardware, making it ideal for users with modern systems.

A major advantage of Fedora is its default support for Flatpak, allowing quick installation of popular cross-platform apps like Spotify, Discord, and Slack. It’s also an excellent choice for those interested in learning how Linux systems work under the hood.

Like Zorin OS, Fedora offers comprehensive documentation to help you manage, maintain, and troubleshoot your system with confidence.

Diving into the world of Linux distros is just the beginning of your journey with this powerful OS. To go deeper, learn how to safeguard your data using tools like Shufflecake to create hidden, encrypted filesystems.

Image credit: Kari Shea via Unsplash and Wikimedia Commons. All edits and screenshots by Ramces Red.

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