In this article, we’ll look at Linux distributions best suited for beginners. This will help new Linux users choose their first distribution.

Let’s face it, Linux can be hugely complex for new users. But Linux itself is not the source of this complexity. Instead, it’s the “novelty” factor that causes it. Not to be nostalgic, but I remember the first time I used Linux, I didn’t even know what to expect. I loved it, but at first it was like swimming against the current.

Not knowing where to start can be a source of frustration, especially for those who have no concept of running anything other than Windows on a PC.

Linux is not just an operating system, it is an idea: a place where people can grow together and suit each other’s different needs. We have already introduced:

  • The best Linux distribution for Windows users
  • Best lightweight Linux distribution
  • The best Linux distribution for hackers
  • Best Linux game distribution
  • The best Linux distribution for privacy and anonymity
  • Looks like the best Linux distribution for MacOS

In addition, there are some distributions that cater specifically to the needs of newcomers. Here are some such Linux distributions for beginners. You can also watch in videos and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more Linux-related videos.

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Linux distribution best for beginners

Keep in mind that this list is in no particular order. The main criteria for compiling this list are ease of installation, out-of-the-box hardware and software, ease of use, and availability of software packages.

1, the Ubuntu

If you’ve researched Linux on the Internet, chances are you’ve come across Ubuntu. Ubuntu is one of the leading Linux distributions, and it’s the perfect place to start your Linux journey.

Ubuntu is seen as a human-friendly Linux because Ubuntu has put a lot of effort into universal usability. Ubuntu doesn’t require a lot of technical knowledge to use it. It breaks the notion that Linux = command-line trouble. This is one of the main advantages of Ubuntu’s surge to where it is today.

Ubuntu provides a very convenient installation program. This installer describes the installation process in plain English (or whatever major language you want). You can even try Ubuntu before you actually perform the installation process. The installer provides simple options:

  • Remove the old operating system to install Ubuntu.
  • Install Ubuntu with Windows or any other existing operating system (a selection list of operating systems to boot is provided at each boot).
  • Let advanced users configure partitions themselves.

Beginner’s tip: If you’re not sure what to do, choose the second option.

Ubuntu uses GNOME for its user interface. It’s simple and efficient. You can search for anything from apps to files by pressing the Windows key. What could be simpler than that?

There are no driver installation issues because Ubuntu comes with a hardware detector that detects, downloads, and installs the best drivers for your PC. In addition, the installation comes with all the basic software, such as a music player, video player, office suite, and some time-killing games.

Ubuntu has excellent documentation and community support. The Ubuntu forums and Ask Ubuntu provide considerable quality support for almost all aspects of Ubuntu. Chances are some of your questions have already been answered, and the answers are for beginners.

Check out and download Ubuntu from the official website.

Linux Mint Cinnamon

For years, Linux Mint has been the number one Linux distribution on Distrowatch. I must say, this is a worthy throne. Linux Mint is one of my personal favorites. It’s elegant, elegant, and provides a superior computing experience right out of the box.

Linux Mint has a Cinnamon desktop environment. New Linux users still getting used to Linux software will find Cinnamon very useful. All software is grouped into categories and very accessible. While this isn’t an exciting feature, it’s a huge benefit for new users who don’t know the names of Linux software.

Linux Mint is fast and works fine on older computers. Linux Mint is built on the solid foundation of Ubuntu. It uses the same software repository as Ubuntu. As for the Ubuntu software repository, Ubuntu only pushes software to it after extensive testing. This means that users don’t have to deal with the unexpected crashes and glitches that some new software is prone to, which can be truly unacceptable to new Linux users.

Windows 7 enthusiasts who haven’t actually upgraded to Microsoft’s Windows 10 will find Linux Mint lovely. The Linux Mint desktop is very similar to the Windows 7 desktop. Similar toolbars, similar menus, and similar tray ICONS will definitely look familiar to Windows users.

Personally, I’m more inclined to recommend Linux Mint to newcomers to the Linux world, because Linux Mint does impress users enough to make them embrace it. For me, Linux Mint should be at the top of the list of Linux for beginners.

Check out Linux Mint here for the Cinnamon version.

3, Mr Zorin OS

Most computer users are Windows users. When a Windows user gets a Linux, he has to go through quite a bit of a “de-knowledge process”. A lot of these operations are hardwired into our muscle memory. For example, every time you want to launch an application, the mouse moves to the lower left corner of the screen (the Start menu). So if we can find something on Linux that alleviates these problems, that’s half the battle. Enter the Zorin OS.

Zorin OS is a highly polished Linux distribution based on Ubuntu, made entirely for Windows Refugees. While almost every Linux distribution is available to anyone, some people may be reluctant to use it when the desktop seems too unfamiliar. Zorin OS avoids this hurdle because of its apparent resemblance to Windows.

Package manager is a new concept to Linux novices. That’s why Zorin OS comes with a huge (and I mean really big) list of pre-installed software. Anything you need is probably already installed on Zorin OS. As if that weren’t enough, Wine and PlayOnLinux are also pre-installed, so you can run your favorite Windows software and games here, too.

Zorin OS comes with an amazing theme engine called “Zorin Look Changer”. It offers some important customization options and presets that can make your operating system look like Windows 7, XP, 2000 or even a Mac, and you’ll feel right at home.

It is these features that make Zorin OS the best Linux distribution for beginners. Check out the Zorin OS website for more information and to download the operating system.

4, Elementary school OS

We’ve looked at Linux distributions for Windows users, so let’s offer something for MacOS users as well. Elementary OS rose to fame very quickly and is now consistently listed among the top releases due to its aesthetic nature. Inspired by MacOS, Elementary OS is one of the most beautiful Linux distributions out there.

Elementary OS is another Ubuntu based operating system, which means the operating system itself is definitely stable. Elementary OS comes with Pantheon desktop environment. You’ll notice the resemblance to the MacOS desktop right away. This is an advantage for MacOS users switching to Linux because they will be very comfortable with the desktop, and it really simplifies the process of making the change.

Its menu is simple and can be customized according to user preferences. The operating system is zero intrusive, so you can really focus on your work. It comes with a very small amount of pre-installed software. As a result, new users are not put off by the sheer volume of content. But hey, it has everything you need right out of the box. If you need more software, Elementary OS has a neat AppCenter. It’s easy to access and easy to use, everything is in one place and you can get all the software and upgrades you need with one click.

Experience shows that Elementary OS is really a great piece of software. It’s definitely worth a try.

5. Linux Mint Mate

Many people who come to learn about Linux want to give old computers a new lease of life. With the popularity of Windows 10, many well-configured computers of a few years ago have become overwhelmed. A quick Google search suggests installing Linux on such a machine. That way, you can keep them up for a while. If you’re looking for an operating system that can run on older computers, Linux Mint Mate is a great Linux distribution.

Linux Mint Mate is very lightweight and resource efficient, and still a beautiful distribution. It runs smoothly on computers with less computing power. The desktop environment doesn’t have all the bells and whistles. But it’s as functional as any other desktop environment. The operating system is non-invasive and allows you to have a productive computing experience without getting in your way.

Similarly, Linux Mint Mate is based on Ubuntu and has the advantage of a large and solid Ubuntu software repository. It comes preloaded with the minimum amount of required software. Provides easy driver installation and setup management.

Even if you only have 512 MB of ram and 9 GB of hard disk space (the more the better), you can still run Linux Mint Mate.

The Mate desktop environment is very simple and easy to use. This is indeed a huge advantage for Linux beginners, and all the more reason to try Linux Mint Mate.

6, Manjaro Linux

All right. Any longtime Linux user will say it’s a sin to introduce a novice to Arch Linux, even just in the general direction. But listen to me.

Arch is considered an expert Linux because of the complexity of its installation process. Manajro and Arch Linux share common origins, but they are very different in other ways.

Manajro Linux has a great installer for beginners. Many things are automated, such as driver installation using “hardware detection.” Manjaro greatly solves the hardware drivers that plague many other Linux distributions. Even if you have any problems, Manjaro has great community support.

Manjaro has its own software repository, which maintains the latest software. While providing users with the latest software is a priority, it is based on ensuring that stability is not compromised. This is one of the main differences between Arch and Manjaro. Manjaro delays the release of packages to ensure that they are absolutely stable and do not cause a rollback. You also have access to the Arch User Repository (AUR) on Manjaro, so you can always get everything you need.

If you want to learn more about Manjaro’s features, read my colleague John’s Manjaro Linux experience and why he’s fascinated by it.

Manjaro Linux has XFCE, KDE, Gnome, Cinnamon, and more desktop environments. Check out the official website.

To install any of the above six operating systems, you need to create a bootable USB drive. Use this guide if you are currently using Windows. Mac OS users can follow this guide.

Which Linux distribution do you choose is best for beginners?

Linux may have a learning curve, but it’s something everyone won’t regret. Go one step further and get an ISO file and try out Linux. If you’re already a Linux user, please share this post and help people fall in love with Linux this season of love. Come on!

Via: itsfoss.com/best-linux-…

Author: Aquil Roshan

This article is originally compiled by LCTT and released in Linux China