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ZDNET’s key takeaways

• Both elementary OS and Linux Mint are great for new users.
• Each distribution appeals to a different type of user.
• You can install and use both for free.

Linux has more different distributions than a puzzle has pieces. They number in the thousands, and range from the very easy to the incredibly complicated.

Clearly, if you’re new to Linux, you’re going to want to start with something that can painlessly introduce you to the open-source operating system. Every Linux user has an opinion on which distribution is best suited for new users, but I would argue that the choice depends on where you’re coming from.

I want to address two different distributions that make sense for users coming from either MacOS or Windows. Those who are new to Linux probably don’t want to migrate to an operating system that looks nothing like what they are used to.

Ergo: elementary OS and Linux Mint. Let’s see which one is right for you.

elementary OS

I have a soft spot in my heart for elementary OS. In fact, I once called it my favorite distribution of all time. I used this distribution for years and found it to be an absolute delight. The elementary OS distribution offers a clean desktop that will be instantly familiar to those who are accustomed to MacOS. You’ll find a bottom dock and a top panel, and a desktop that has a very tasteful theme. All of those elements come together to make a Linux distribution that is not only easy to use but pleasing to the eye.

Also: Elementary OS 8 continues the tradition of a beautiful, user-friendly desktop

Based on the LTS release of Ubuntu, elementary OS benefits from the same reliability as found in its mothership, and it’s just as user-friendly (if not more so). You’ll find the default elementary OS theme to be classy and well thought out, making it very easy to interact with.

When you log into the desktop, you’ll find a dock and a top bar. On the dock, there are quick launchers for things like the file manager, web browser, to-do list, calendar, music player, video player, image viewer, app store, and a button to add new workspaces. 

On the top bar, there’s a desktop menu (at the far right), quick access to the calendar (center), and the system tray (far right).

No one, regardless of Linux experience, will have even the slightest problem with elementary OS, especially if you’re coming from MacOS.

One of the first things you’ll notice, upon opening the desktop menu, is that there’s very little in the way of preinstalled applications. That’s OK, because elementary OS has a great AppCenter for installing software.

elementary OS also ups the ante on security with the addition of Secure Session, which enhances privacy and security by requiring a user’s consent in order for applications to access system features (such as cameras, mics, etc.). You can also set screen time limits, create custom keyboard shortcuts, and more.

Who is elementary for?

If you’ve been using MacOS and are looking to make the move (or at least test out) Linux, elemntary OS is the distribution for you. With a UI that is modeled after Apple’s, an app store that makes installing software easy, plenty of security, and ease of use, you’ll feel right at home.

That doesn’t mean Windows users need not apply, as elementary OS is easy enough for anyone to use.

Also: The best Linux laptops of 2024 

elementary OS is an operating system that lives up to its name: in ease of use, it’s elementary, but that does not make it elementary in day-to-day functionality.

What is Linux Mint?

If you’re coming from Windows, there’s a Linux distribution right up your alley, and it’s called Linux Mint.

Linux Mint is often considered the single best distribution for new users. One of the reasons for this is that it sticks with a very traditional desktop layout. You’ll find a bottom panel, a desktop menu, a system tray, and desktop icons. And because Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu, you get the same package manager and stability.

Where elementary OS opts for a more modern look, Linux Mint might seem slightly outdated. Instead of leaning hard into aesthetics, Linux Mint opts for simplicity, and it does a great job of achieving that. Linux Mint is as easy to use as any operating system on the market.

Also: I tried the new Linux Mint 22.3 – it’s a masterclass in polish and quality-of-life fixes

While elementary OS opts to preinstall a bare minimum of software, Linux Mint delivers everything you need to get going, right out of the box. There are productivity tools (such as LibreOffice), multimedia viewers, chat apps, the ability to easily create web apps out of a website, and all the utilities you can think of. Once you’ve installed Linux Mint, you’re good to go.

And then there’s the system snapshots feature, which allows you to create restore points. Should something go wrong, you can roll back your desktop to a previously working state. This uses Time Shift, which I’ve covered in How to create system restore points on Linux with Timeshift – and why you should. 

As far as aesthetics, you get a theme app that allows you to select a theme, change the appearance, and pick a color. Or you can go to the advanced options and get a bit more granular with the look and feel.

Mint also offers a driver manager to make it easier to install the right drivers for your components.

Who is Linux Mint for?

If you’re looking for a turn-key Linux solution that you can install and is ready to go out of the box, and you’re coming from Windows, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better option than Linux Mint. No, it’s not nearly as beautiful as elementary OS, but it offers more features, has a larger community, and has a faster development cycle (which means you’ll get new releases and updates faster).

Which one is right for you?

This is simple: if you’re a MacOS user, go with elementary OS. If you’re a Windows user, go with Linux Mint. Either way, both distributions are outstanding and will serve you well for a very long time.

Also: The 6 Linux distros I expect to rule 2026 – and why

If either of these distributions interests you, download an ISO (elementary OS/Linux Mint) create a bootable USB drive, boot up, and install.

You won’t regret it.