Linux can be exciting but intimidating for new users. The sheer number of Linux distros can be overwhelming when deciding where to start. However, choosing good Linux distro for beginners can make the transition easier and help you take advantage of their flexibility, stability, and powerful tools.
A Linux distribution, or distro, is an operating system built around the Linux kernel. Each distro has features, interfaces, and tools for different needs, making it an excellent option for personal computers, workstations, and servers. This article will cover the 7 best Linux distros for beginners and what they’re good for.
Top 7 Good Linux Distro for Beginners
1. Ubuntu LTS: The easiest Linux distro for beginners
When it comes to beginner-friendly Linux distros, Ubuntu always tops the list. Developed by Canonical, Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distros, known for its user-friendliness and massive community support.
User Interface: Ubuntu uses the GNOME desktop environment, a modern and sleek graphical user interface (GUI) that’s easy to use and looks good.
Key Features:
- LTS releases get 5 years of security updates and bug fixes
- Huge software and tools repository, accessible through the Ubuntu Software Center
- Installs software quickly so that beginners can set up applications with no hassle
- It has good hardware support so it works with most devices even during dual boot with Windows
Whether you’re looking for web applications, multimedia support, or office productivity, Ubuntu LTS provides a solid and polished experience. It’s a great choice for users coming from other operating systems.
2. Linux Mint: A distro for beginners with user-friendliness
Linux Mint is another great option, especially for those coming from Windows. It’s based on Ubuntu and has the same stability but with a more traditional desktop experience.
Desktop Environments: Linux Mint has multiple desktop environments: Cinnamon (default), MATE, and Xfce. Cinnamon is very user-friendly and looks like Windows.
Key Features:
- User-friendliness with a minimal learning curve
- Pre-installed multimedia codecs for audio and video playback
- Simple package management and software installation through the Software Manager
- It supports older hardware well, making Linux Mint the ideal distro for personal computers with limited resources
Linux Mint is the perfect balance of simplicity and functionality, an excellent choice for beginners.
3. Zorin OS: A Windows-like Linux experience
The developers created Zorin OS to help Windows users easily transition to Linux. Its focus on mimicking the Windows interface means new users will feel at home.
User Interface: Zorin OS Core Edition has a customizable desktop environment that can look like Windows or macOS. So it’s approachable for users familiar with those operating systems.
Key Features:
- User-friendly interface with pre-installed tools for everyday tasks
- Good hardware support for easy setup, even on older devices
- Built-in disk encryption
Zorin OS is great for beginners who want a polished Linux distro with minimal learning and good out-of-the-box performance.
4. MX Linux: A stable and versatile distro
MX Linux is based on Debian Stable and combines its stability with user-friendliness. Known for its balance of simplicity and performance, it’s for beginners and advanced users.
Desktop Environment: The default Xfce desktop environment is lightweight, so MX Linux is perfect for older hardware. KDE Plasma is also available for those who want a more customizable experience.
Key Features:
- Pre-installed MX Tools for system management tasks
- Active community forums and extensive documentation to help beginners troubleshoot
- It has lightweight system requirements, which works well for older PCs
Choose MX Linux if you want a beginner-friendly Linux distro that grows with you as you learn.
5. Elementary OS: Sleek and minimalistic
Elementary OS is a beautiful Linux distro designed with simplicity and beauty in mind. Often compared to macOS, it’s all about a distraction-free and user-friendly experience.
User Interface: The Pantheon desktop environment is clean and minimalistic with intuitive navigation.
Key Features:
- Privacy-first approach with built-in disk encryption
- Stable release cycle for long-term performance
- An App Center for software installation with a curated selection of apps
Elementary OS is for users who want aesthetics and ease of use with a stable system for everyday tasks.
6. Linux Lite: Lightweight and simple
The distribution developers designed Linux Lite as a perfect Linux distro for beginners, especially for older or lower-spec hardware. It’s all about ease of use without sacrificing the essentials.
Desktop Environment: The Xfce desktop environment is lightweight and full-featured, perfect for new users.
Key Features:
- Pre-installed software for web browsing, document editing, and multimedia tasks
- Extensive documentation and active forums for community support
- User-friendly with intuitive tools for software installation
Linux Lite’s lightweight and accessibility makes it one of the best newbie starting points.
7. Manjaro Linux: Arch made easy
Manjaro Linux is based on Arch Linux but removes the complexity that makes Arch hard for beginners. It’s not the easiest Linux distro but it’s beginner-friendly, so new users who want to learn can use it.
Desktop Environments: Manjaro has multiple desktop environments, Xfce (default), KDE Plasma, and GNOME so you have options.
Key Features:
- They have a rolling release model for the latest software updates.
- Huge repositories with top-notch hardware support and software installation tools
- Highly customizable desktop environments for those who want to tweak their experience
Manjaro Linux is for users who want a beginner distro that grows into advanced features.
Why choose the best Linux distro for beginners
Choosing a good Linux distro for beginners means you can focus on learning without getting bogged down by technical issues. Here’s why:
- User Friendliness: Beginner distros like Ubuntu and Linux Mint are about ease of use with intuitive interfaces and preconfigured settings
- Desktop Environments: A simple and customizable desktop environment like Xfce or GNOME can make a big difference
- Community Support: Active forums, efficient documentation, and tutorials simplify troubleshooting and learning
- Hardware Compatibility: Great hardware support for all kinds of devices, even older hardware
- Learning Curve: Starting with a distro for beginners reduces frustration and helps you build confidence as you learn Linux
Also worth considering
While the above distros are suitable for Linux users, here are a few more:
- Fedora Linux: This is for those who want to try the latest Linux features.
- Ubuntu Server: This is for learning server administration, and it is less for desktop use.
- Arch Linux: This is for advanced users who want to build their own distro from scratch.
- Red Hat Enterprise Linux: It is not so beginner-friendly for corporate environments and IT professionals.
How to start with Linux
Once you’ve chosen a distro, follow these steps:
- Test Before Installing. Most Linux distros have live versions you can run from a USB drive to try the interface and features without installing.
- Install Linux. Follow the installation guide of your chosen distro. Back up your data if you’re dual-booting with Windows.
- Learn the basics. Get to know the command line, package management, and desktop environment.
- Join the community: Engage with forums, active communities, and extensive documentation to troubleshoot and learn.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which Linux distro is best for beginners?
Ubuntu LTS and Linux Mint are often considered the best Linux distros for beginners due to their user-friendly interfaces, excellent hardware support, and extensive community resources.
2. Can I use Linux on older hardware?
Yes! Developers design distros like Linux Lite and MX Linux to run efficiently on older or less powerful hardware.
3. Is Linux good for daily use?
Absolutely. Linux offers stable systems, excellent hardware support, and a wide range of applications for web browsing, multimedia, and office tasks.
5. How do I choose the right desktop environment?
Try GNOME (Ubuntu) or Pantheon (Elementary OS) if you prefer modern, sleek designs. Consider Xfce (Linux Lite, MX Linux) for a lightweight, traditional feel.
Start Your Linux Journey
Choosing good Linux distro for beginners is all about your needs and preferences.
Whether you want user-friendliness, excellent hardware support, or a polished interface the above distros—Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Zorin OS, MX Linux, Elementary OS, Linux Lite, and Manjaro Linux— can do the job.
Go ahead and start your Linux adventure! Try the live versions and find your distro! Freedom and flexibility await. Book a 10-minute intro call to learn how to start with Linux today!
