If you’re looking to try out Linux for the first time, it’s important to choose a distro that caters to your needs and skill level. Fortunately, there are several Linux distributions designed specifically for beginners that offer an easy-to-use interface, plenty of documentation, and a helpful user community.
Choosing a Linux distribution (distro) can be a daunting task for beginners, given the numerous options available in the market. Each distribution has its own features, design, and functionalities, which can be confusing for new users. However, certain Linux distros are more beginner-friendly than others and can serve as a great starting point for those new to the Linux world.
Some Linux distros are often designed with simplicity and ease of use, making them a great choice for first-time users who may not be familiar with Linux command lines. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most popular Linux distros for beginners.
Best Linux Distros For Beginners
1. Ubuntu
Ubuntu is a free and open-source Linux distribution that is widely regarded as one of the most beginner-friendly Linux distributions. Its easy installation process and user-friendly interface make it a great choice for first-time Linux users. The distribution is based on Debian and uses the GNOME desktop environment, which is simple and easy to navigate.
Ubuntu also boasts a large and active community that provides support for both new and experienced users. The Ubuntu Software Center has an extensive collection of applications that you can install with ease. Ubuntu’s repository contains thousands of applications that you can install via the terminal or graphical package manager.
One of the biggest advantages of Ubuntu is its compatibility with a wide range of hardware. Ubuntu has good support for both laptops and desktops, and it works seamlessly with a variety of peripherals such as printers, cameras, and other devices. Ubuntu also has an LTS (Long-Term Support) release, which is great for users who want a stable and secure operating system.
Minimum Requirements for Ubuntu :
- 2 GHz dual-core processor or better
- 4 GB RAM or more
- 25 GB storage space
2. Zorin OS
Zorin OS is a Linux distros that’s designed to look and feel like Windows or macOS, making it an ideal choice for users who are used to those operating systems but want to switch to Linux. The interface is sleek and modern, with a user-friendly design that’s easy to navigate.
It comes with a range of applications that cover most users’ needs, including LibreOffice, GIMP, and Firefox. Zorin OS also supports running Windows applications through Wine, making it a great choice for users who want to use both Linux and Windows applications on the same machine.
One of the standout features of Zorin OS is its ability to switch between different desktop layouts. Users can choose between the Windows 10-like layout, a traditional GNOME desktop, or a macOS-style layout.
his makes it an ideal choice for users who want to experiment with different desktop layouts or who are used to a particular layout and don’t want to change. Zorin OS also has a range of accessibility options, including the ability to magnify the screen and use an on-screen keyboard, making it a great choice for users with disabilities.
Minimum Requirements for Zorin OS :
- 1 GHz dual-core processor or better
- 2 GB RAM or more
- 25 GB storage space
- Intel or Nvidia graphics card
3. ElementaryOS
ElementaryOS is a Linux distribution that’s designed to be simple and user-friendly. It’s based on Ubuntu and comes with a custom desktop environment called Pantheon. The interface is minimalistic and elegant, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use.
The default applications are carefully chosen to cover most users’ needs, including the Epiphany web browser, the Geary email client, and the Files file manager. The AppCenter allows users to browse and install additional applications, with a focus on high-quality, well-designed apps.
One of the standout features of ElementaryOS is its attention to detail. Every aspect of the user interface has been carefully designed and crafted, from the icons and fonts to the animations and transitions. This makes for a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing user experience.
ElementaryOS also has a range of accessibility options, including the ability to zoom the screen, use high-contrast mode, and use the Orca screen reader, making it a great choice for users with disabilities.
Minimum Requirements for ElementaryOS :
- 1 GHz dual-core processor or better
- 4 GB RAM or more
- 15 GB storage space
4. Linux Mint
Linux Mint is a popular Linux distribution that’s known for its ease of use and user-friendliness. It’s based on Ubuntu and comes with the Cinnamon desktop environment, which is designed to be simple and intuitive. The interface is clean and modern, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use.
The default applications cover most users’ needs, including the Firefox web browser, the LibreOffice office suite, and the VLC media player. Linux Mint also comes with a range of system tools, including a software manager, update manager, and backup tool.
One of the standout features of Linux Mint is its stability. The distribution is designed to be reliable and rock-solid, with a focus on long-term support. This makes it an ideal choice for users who want a stable and dependable operating system that won’t break or crash.
Linux Mint also has a range of customization options, allowing users to tweak the interface and desktop layout to suit their preferences. The distribution also supports a range of desktop environments, including Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce, making it a versatile choice for users who want to experiment with different desktop layouts.
Minimum Requirements for Linux Mint
- 1 GHz x86 processor or better
- 1 GB RAM or more (recommended: 2 GB)
- 15 GB storage space (recommended: 20 GB)
5. Deepin
Deepin is a Debian-based Linux distribution known for its elegant, user-friendly interface and robust features. The deepin desktop environment, which is the highlight of this distribution, is simple, intuitive, and attractive. The interface has similarities to macOS, which makes it a popular choice for former Apple users. The deepin application store also has a good collection of pre-installed apps that make using the distribution a smooth experience.
In terms of performance, Deepin is resource-intensive and requires a minimum of 4 GB of RAM for a smooth operation. The distribution comes with a variety of customization options, including its own dark mode that works with both GTK and Qt applications. The software center has both open-source and proprietary applications that you can install with ease. Additionally, the distribution has built-in support for popular multimedia codecs, making it a great option for multimedia enthusiasts.
Deepin also comes with the necessary system tools that any user would need, including a screenshot tool, a disk utility tool, and an application to configure your network. The distribution also supports cross-platform file transfers and its own native cloud service, making it a great option for people who want an integrated and secure cloud solution.
Minimum Requirements for Deepin :
- 2 GHz dual-core processor or better
- 4 GB RAM or more
- 50 GB storage space
6. Solus
Solus is an independent Linux distribution that offers a unique desktop experience with its own Budgie desktop environment. Solus is built from scratch and is optimized for modern hardware. The distribution has a simple and attractive interface, and the Budgie desktop environment is easy to use and navigate.
Solus offers a curated selection of software, which makes it a great option for users who prefer quality over quantity. The distribution has its own software center, which offers a good selection of applications, including popular proprietary applications. The software center has a user-friendly interface and makes it easy to install and manage your applications.
Solus is also known for its excellent hardware support. The distribution has good support for both laptops and desktops, and it works seamlessly with a variety of peripherals such as printers, cameras, and other devices. Solus also has good gaming support, and it comes with Steam pre-installed.
One of the unique features of Solus is its rolling release model. This means that the distribution receives updates continuously, and there is no need to perform a full system upgrade every few years. The rolling release model ensures that you always have access to the latest software and features.
Minimum Requirements for Solus :
- 1 GHz or faster 64-bit processor
- 4 GB RAM
- 20 GB of disk space
- Graphics card capable of 3D acceleration
7. Manjaro Linux
Manjaro Linux is an Arch-based distros that aims to be simple, fast, and easy to use. It is known for its user-friendly interface and intuitive installation process. It is suitable for beginners, as well as advanced users who prefer a rolling release model. Manjaro is available in several different desktop environments, including Xfce, KDE, GNOME, and Cinnamon.
One of the main benefits of Manjaro is its rolling release model, which means that users always have access to the latest software updates and bug fixes. The system is designed to be stable and reliable, with rigorous testing before updates are released to the public.
Another advantage of Manjaro is its support for the AUR (Arch User Repository), which provides access to a large number of user-created packages. This makes it easy to install a wide range of software, including applications that are not available in the official repositories.
Manjaro also includes a number of useful tools, such as the Manjaro Settings Manager, which makes it easy to configure system settings and manage hardware drivers. The Manjaro Hardware Detection tool is also very helpful, as it automatically detects and installs the necessary drivers for most hardware.
Minimum Requirements for Manjaro Linux :
- 1 GHz or faster 32-bit or 64-bit processor
- 2 GB RAM
- 30 GB of disk space
8. Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS is a Linux distros developed by System76, a company that specializes in building Linux-based computers. Pop!_OS is designed to work seamlessly with System76 hardware, but it can also be used on other systems. It is based on Ubuntu and uses the GNOME desktop environment.
One of the key features of Pop!_OS is its focus on productivity. It includes a number of productivity-focused tools, such as the Pop!_Shop, which makes it easy to install and manage applications, and the Pop!_Shell, which provides a more efficient workflow by organizing windows into workspaces.
Another advantage of Pop!_OS is its support for Nvidia graphics cards. The distros includes a special version of the Nvidia driver that is optimized for performance and stability. Pop!_OS also includes a number of other useful tools, such as the System76 Driver tool, which makes it easy to install and update hardware drivers, and the Tiling Script, which provides a quick and easy way to set up a tiling window manager.
Minimum Requirements for Pop!_OS :
- 2 GHz dual-core processor
- 4 GB RAM
- 16 GB of disk space
- Intel or NVIDIA graphics
9. EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS is an Arch-based distribution that is designed to be lightweight, fast, and easy to use. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced users who want a rolling release model. EndeavourOS includes a number of different desktop environments, including Xfce, KDE Plasma, and GNOME.
One of the main benefits of EndeavourOS is its user-friendly installation process. It uses the Calamares installer, which provides an easy-to-follow graphical interface that guides users through the installation process.
EndeavourOS also includes a number of useful tools, such as the EndeavourOS Welcome tool, which provides easy access to the documentation, the forum, and the wiki. The tool also makes it easy to install and remove software, manage system updates, and configure hardware.
Another advantage of EndeavourOS is its support for the AUR (Arch User Repository), which provides access to a wide range of user-created packages. This makes it easy to install software that is not available in the official repositories.
Minimum Requirements for EndeavourOS :
- 64-bit processor
- 2 GB RAM
- 20 GB of disk space
10. Linux Lite
Linux Lite is a free and open-source Linux distribution that is lightweight and designed to be easy to use for users who are transitioning from Windows. The operating system is based on the long-term support (LTS) release of Ubuntu, and it features a clean and simple interface that is familiar to Windows users. Linux Lite is known for being fast and stable, and it has a low resource footprint, making it ideal for older computers and netbooks.
One of the standout features of Linux Lite is the inclusion of a number of useful tools and utilities that are designed to help users get the most out of their system. For example, the Lite Welcome application provides a one-stop-shop for new users to learn about the operating system, while the Lite Software application makes it easy to find and install additional software.
Another benefit of Linux Lite is the inclusion of the Whisker Menu, which is a customizable application launcher that makes it easy to find and launch applications. Additionally, Linux Lite features a number of lightweight and easy-to-use applications, such as the Firefox web browser, the VLC media player, and the LibreOffice productivity suite.
Minimum Requirements for Linux Lite :
- 1.5 GHz processor
- 1 GB RAM
- 25 GB of disk space
11. MX Linux
MX Linux is a midweight Linux distros that is based on the Debian stable branch. The operating system is known for being fast, stable, and lightweight, making it a great choice for users who are looking for a fast and reliable Linux distros.
One of the standout features of MX Linux is the inclusion of a number of useful tools and utilities that are designed to help users get the most out of their system. For example, the MX Tools application provides a one-stop-shop for configuring and managing the system, while the MX Package Installer makes it easy to find and install additional software.
MX Linux also features a number of lightweight and easy-to-use applications, such as the Firefox web browser, the VLC media player, and the LibreOffice productivity suite. Additionally, MX Linux includes a number of custom tools and scripts that are designed to make the system easier to use and customize.
Minimum Requirements for MX Linux :
- 32-bit or 64-bit processor
- 512 MB RAM
- 5 GB of disk space
12. Pinguy OS
Pinguy OS is an Ubuntu-based Linux distribution that comes preloaded with all the essential applications and tools that an everyday user would need. It is designed with a focus on user experience and ease of use. Pinguy OS uses the GNOME desktop environment and offers a highly polished and modern UI that makes it stand out among other Linux distributions.
One of the significant features of Pinguy OS is the Pinguy Builder, which allows users to create their custom versions of the operating system, tailored to their specific requirements. It includes a large collection of software for multimedia, gaming, office work, and more. It also comes with a one-click backup tool that makes backing up the system easy and effortless.
Pinguy OS is suitable for beginners and experienced users alike. The installation process is straightforward, and the operating system is easy to use. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and fully-featured Ubuntu-based Linux distribution.
Minimum Requirements for Pinguy OS :
- 1 GHz processor
- 768 MB RAM
- 20 GB of disk space
13. Fedora KDE Plasma
Fedora is a community-driven Linux distribution sponsored by Red Hat. It is known for being a cutting-edge distribution that incorporates the latest technologies and features. Fedora with KDE Plasma is a spin-off of the Fedora distribution that uses the KDE Plasma desktop environment.
KDE Plasma is a highly customizable desktop environment that offers a lot of flexibility in terms of the look and feel of the system. It includes a vast array of widgets and plasmoids that can be added to the desktop to provide quick access to applications and system settings.
Fedora with KDE Plasma is ideal for users who want a stable and reliable Linux distribution with the latest features and technologies. It is a great choice for developers and power users who want access to the latest software tools and programming languages. The installation process is straightforward, and the system is easy to use.
Minimum Requirements for Fedora with KDE Plasma :
- 1 GHz or faster processor
- 1 GB RAM
- 10 GB of disk space
14. Peppermint OS
Peppermint OS is a lightweight Linux distros that is based on Ubuntu. It is designed to be fast and responsive, even on older hardware. It uses the LXDE desktop environment, which is known for being lightweight and customizable.
Peppermint OS comes with a preconfigured Ice application that allows users to create web applications from any website. It also includes a wide range of applications for web browsing, office work, multimedia, and more. The installation process is straightforward, and the system is easy to use.
Peppermint OS is an excellent choice for users who want a lightweight and fast Linux distros. It is suitable for older hardware, as well as modern systems. It is ideal for users who spend a lot of time on the web and want an operating system that is designed with web applications in mind.
Minimum Requirements for Peppermint OS :
- 1 GHz or faster processor
- 1 GB RAM
- 10 GB of disk space
15. Modicia OS
Modicia OS is a Linux distros based on the Ubuntu operating system. It is designed to provide users with an intuitive and easy-to-use desktop environment that is optimized for productivity. The developers of Modicia OS have worked hard to ensure that the operating system is easy to install and configure, making it a good choice for users who are new to Linux.
One of the standout features of Modicia OS is the desktop environment. It is designed to be clean and modern, with a simple and easy-to-navigate user interface. The desktop environment is based on the Xfce desktop environment, which is known for its lightweight and fast performance. The developers have added their own touches to the desktop environment, including custom themes and icons that give the operating system a unique look and feel.
Modicia OS comes pre-installed with a variety of useful applications that are designed to help users be productive. The software suite includes LibreOffice, a full-featured office productivity suite, GIMP, a powerful image editing tool, and a variety of other applications for managing email, browsing the web, and more. The software is easy to use and well-integrated into the desktop environment, making it a good choice for users who need to get work done.
Another important feature of Modicia OS is its focus on security. The operating system comes pre-installed with a variety of security features, including a firewall and an anti-virus program. The developers also work hard to keep the operating system up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates. This makes Modicia OS a good choice for users who are concerned about the security of their computer and their data.
Minimum Requirements for Modicia OS :
- 64-bit processor
- 1 GB RAM
- 10 GB of disk space
How to Choose the Best Linux Distro for Beginners?
Choosing the best Linux distro for beginners can be overwhelming, as there are many different options available. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a Linux distro for beginners :
- User-Friendly Interface – Beginners should look for a Linux distro that has a user-friendly interface, so that they can easily navigate the system and access applications without having to use the command line.
- Compatibility – It’s important to choose a Linux distro that is compatible with your hardware. Check the system requirements before selecting a distro to ensure that it will run smoothly on your computer.
- Community Support – It’s helpful to choose a Linux distro that has an active and supportive community, as this can provide assistance and resources for beginners who may have questions or encounter issues.
- Software Availability – Consider the software that you need to run on your Linux system. Some software may only be available on certain Linux distros, so make sure to choose a distro that supports the applications you need.
- Updates and Security – Look for a Linux distro that has a good track record of regular updates and security patches to ensure that your system is up-to-date and protected from potential security threats.
Overall, the best Linux distro for beginners will depend on personal preferences and needs. It’s a good idea to research different distros, read reviews, and even try out a few on a virtual machine before making a final decision.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Linux distro for beginners requires careful consideration of a number of factors such as ease of use, user interface, available applications, system requirements, and support. The right Linux distribution can provide a stable, secure, and customizable computing environment that is ideal for those who are new to Linux.
Some of the most popular Linux distros for beginners include Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Zorin OS, and Elementary OS, which are known for their user-friendly interfaces and extensive documentation and community support. By taking the time to research and evaluate different Linux distros, beginners can find the one that best suits their needs and helps them to explore the world of open-source software.