How to make Linux look like MacOS for free – with a few simple ZorinOS tweaks
How to make Linux look like MacOS for free – with a few simple ZorinOS tweaks
https://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-make-linux-look-like-macos-for-free-simple-zorinos-tweaks/
Publish Date: 2026-06-29 05:00:00
Source Domain: www.zdnet.com
Jack Wallen/ZDNET
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ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Zorin OS can be made to look like the MacOS desktop.
- You can purchase a Pro license and do it the easy way.
- You can also achieve this via the free version.
The MacOS UI is pretty sweet. And, yes, I am a fan of Liquid Glass… so there.
If you’re a fan of the way the MacOS UI looks and feels, but you’re about to make the jump to Linux, consider Zorin OS as your landing spot.
With just a few quick tweaks, you can make the Zorin OS UI look quite similar to MacOS.
Also: Linux Mint vs. Zorin OS: I’ve tried both Windows alternatives, and here’s my winner
There are two ways to do this. The first (and easiest) is to purchase a Zorin OS Pro license. The big downside of the Pro version is that you’ll have to purchase a license with each major upgrade, as the Pro license for Zorin OS 18 will not transfer to version 19 (when it’s released). If you plan on sticking with one release for its full support cycle (five years), that’s great. However, if you like to install the latest/greatest OS, you’d have to purchase a new Pro license ($47.99) with every major release.
With the Pro version, all you have to do is open Zorin Appearance and select the MacOS layout.
With Zorin OS Pro, getting a MacOS layout is simple.
Screenshot by Jack Wallen/ZDNET
If you’re on a budget and still want to get the MacOS-like layout, you’re in luck, because I’m going to show you how. You’ll be surprised how easy it is.
Select the layout
The first thing to do is download a Zorin OS ISO, create a live USB drive, boot from it, and install Zorin OS. After that task is completed, boot the OS and log in. If the Zorin Appearance app doesn’t appear, open it from the desktop menu.
Also: Zorin OS vs. AnduinOS: How to pick the right Windows-like Linux distro for you
In the Zorin Appearance app, select the GNOME layout, which displays a single top bar.
The GNOME layout is the best starting point.
Screenshot by Jack…
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