Linux is often seen as the operating system for computer experts, but that is not really the case. Linux in fact is not an operating system in itself, rather the core of an operating system, leaving the rest of it to be implemented by each individual “distro.” These distros vary widely, some being for advanced users and other being perfect for beginners. Here are some of the best distros for new Linux users:
- Ubuntu
Ubuntu is one of the most popular distros out there. It comes with a GNOME desktop environment. It is the distro that almost all of the most user friendly distros are based on, but its popularity means there is plenty of support when something inevitable goes wrong.
- Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS is a beginner friendly distro based off of Ubuntu developed by System76. It comes with a graphic installer, just like Windows would. It comes with a lot of pre-installed software, making it easy to use out of the box. It comes with GNOME, a very user-friendly desktop environment (GUI of the computer).
- Linux Mint
Linux Mint is another distro based off of Ubuntu. It offers multiple desktop environments, but uses Cinnamon, a desktop environment designed to give an experience as close to Windows as possible, by default.
- Zorin OS
Zorin OS is the first distro on this list not based on Ubuntu. It is designed specifically for newcomers to Linux, with an interface that closely resembles Windows. It aims to provide plenty of basic software out of the box to make the user experience very smooth.
- Elementary OS
Elementary OS is another distro that is not based on Ubuntu. It focuses on a clean and visually appealing design, resembling macOS. It aims to provide a simple, intuitive interface that is easy for beginners to navigate.
