Elementary OS vs. Linux Mint: I compared my once favorite distro to the Windows alternative
Elementary OS vs. Linux Mint: I compared my once favorite distro to the Windows alternative
https://www.zdnet.com/article/elementary-os-vs-linux-mint/
Publish Date: 2026-05-12 21:12:00
Source Domain: www.zdnet.com
Linux Mint and Elementary
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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,…
