Linux Mint vs. Elementary OS: I compared both distros, and here’s my advice

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ZDNET’s key takeaways

• Each elementary OS and Linux Mint are nice for brand spanking new customers.
• Every distribution appeals to a distinct sort of consumer.
• You’ll be able to set up and use each at no cost.

Linux has extra totally different distributions than a puzzle has items. They quantity within the 1000’s, and vary from the very straightforward to the extremely sophisticated.

Clearly, in the event you’re new to Linux, you are going to wish to begin with one thing that may painlessly introduce you to the open-source working system. Each Linux consumer has an opinion on which distribution is finest suited to new customers, however I’d argue that the selection relies on the place you are coming from.

I wish to handle two totally different distributions that make sense for customers coming from both MacOS or Home windows. Those that are new to Linux in all probability do not wish to migrate to an working system that appears nothing like what they’re used to.

Ergo: elementary OS and Linux Mint. Let’s have a look at which one is best for you.

elementary OS

I’ve a delicate spot in my coronary heart for elementary OS. In truth, I as soon as known as it my favorite distribution of all time. I used this distribution for years and located it to be an absolute delight. The elementary OS distribution provides a clear desktop that will likely be immediately acquainted to those that are accustomed to MacOS. You will discover a backside dock and a high panel, and a desktop that has a really tasteful theme. All of these parts come collectively to make a Linux distribution that’s not solely straightforward to make use of however pleasing to the attention.

Additionally: Elementary OS 8 continues the tradition of a beautiful, user-friendly desktop

Based mostly on the LTS launch of Ubuntu, elementary OS advantages from the identical reliability as present in its mothership, and it is simply as user-friendly (if no more so). You will discover the default elementary OS theme to be stylish and effectively thought out, making it very straightforward to work together with.

While you log into the desktop, you will discover a dock and a high bar. On the dock, there are fast launchers for issues just like the file supervisor, internet browser, to-do checklist, calendar, music participant, video participant, picture viewer, app retailer, and a button so as to add new workspaces. 

On the highest bar, there is a desktop menu (on the far proper), fast entry to the calendar (middle), and the system tray (far proper).

Nobody, no matter Linux expertise, can have even the slightest drawback with elementary OS, particularly in the event you’re coming from MacOS.

One of many first stuff you’ll discover, upon opening the desktop menu, is that there is little or no in the way in which of preinstalled purposes. That is OK, as a result of elementary OS has an important AppCenter for putting in software program.

elementary OS additionally ups the ante on safety with the addition of Safe Session, which boosts privateness and safety by requiring a consumer’s consent to ensure that purposes to entry system options (resembling cameras, mics, and so on.). It’s also possible to set display screen cut-off dates, create customized keyboard shortcuts, and extra.

Who’s elementary for?

In case you’ve been utilizing MacOS and wish to make the transfer (or at the very least take a look at out) Linux, elemntary OS is the distribution for you. With a UI that’s modeled after Apple’s, an app retailer that makes putting in software program straightforward, loads of safety, and ease of use, you will really feel proper at residence.

That does not imply Home windows customers needn’t apply, as elementary OS is simple sufficient for anybody to make use of.

Additionally: The best Linux laptops of 2024 

elementary OS is an working system that lives as much as its identify: in ease of use, it is elementary, however that doesn’t make it elementary in day-to-day performance.

What’s Linux Mint?

In case you’re coming from Home windows, there is a Linux distribution proper up your alley, and it is known as Linux Mint.

Linux Mint is usually thought-about the one finest distribution for brand spanking new customers. One of many causes for that is that it sticks with a really conventional desktop structure. You will discover a backside panel, a desktop menu, a system tray, and desktop icons. And since Linux Mint relies on Ubuntu, you get the identical package deal supervisor and stability.

The place elementary OS opts for a extra trendy look, Linux Mint may appear barely outdated. As a substitute of leaning exhausting into aesthetics, Linux Mint opts for simplicity, and it does an important job of attaining that. Linux Mint is as straightforward to make use of as any working system available on the market.

Additionally: I tried the new Linux Mint 22.3 – it’s a masterclass in polish and quality-of-life fixes

Whereas elementary OS opts to preinstall a naked minimal of software program, Linux Mint delivers every little thing you have to get going, proper out of the field. There are productiveness instruments (resembling LibreOffice), multimedia viewers, chat apps, the power to simply create internet apps out of an internet site, and all of the utilities you’ll be able to consider. As soon as you have put in Linux Mint, you are good to go.

After which there’s the system snapshots function, which lets you create restore factors. Ought to one thing go flawed, you’ll be able to roll again your desktop to a beforehand working state. This makes use of Time Shift, which I’ve coated in How to create system restore points on Linux with Timeshift – and why you should. 

So far as aesthetics, you get a theme app that permits you to choose a theme, change the looks, and decide a shade. Or you’ll be able to go to the superior choices and get a bit extra granular with the feel and appear.

Mint additionally provides a driver supervisor to make it simpler to put in the suitable drivers on your elements.

Who’s Linux Mint for?

In case you’re searching for a turn-key Linux answer you could set up and is able to exit of the field, and also you’re coming from Home windows, you would be hard-pressed to discover a higher possibility than Linux Mint. No, it isn’t practically as stunning as elementary OS, but it surely provides extra options, has a bigger neighborhood, and has a quicker growth cycle (which implies you will get new releases and updates quicker).

Which one is best for you?

That is easy: in the event you’re a MacOS consumer, go along with elementary OS. In case you’re a Home windows consumer, go along with Linux Mint. Both approach, each distributions are excellent and can serve you effectively for a really very long time.

Additionally: The 6 Linux distros I expect to rule 2026 – and why

If both of those distributions pursuits you, obtain an ISO (elementary OS/Linux Mint) create a bootable USB drive, boot up, and set up.

You will not remorse it.