Windows-like Linux Distros

Beginners Distro Hopping
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continued… @Papadad111 you know, yesterday, call it good timing (if you find it interesting) I came across this Linux distro that, I think, might just be what you are looking for:

Wubuntu…

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  • Edit: Actually, NO - The Wikipedia page airs some serious concerns. So probably skip to the other two options below or use at your own risk!

Zorin

If not, based on your intro message, also give Zorin a look:

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  • Why? It’s for Windows users switching to Linux with a familiar UI and no learning curve.
  • Pros:
    • Windows-like desktop (with themes for Windows 7, 10 or 11).
    • Comes with LibreOffice, web browser and media players pre-installed.
    • Zorin Appearance tool to change the layout.
  • Best For: Windows users looking for a plug and play Linux experience with minimal setup.

Ubuntu Budgie

Oh, also check out Ubuntu Budgie:

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  • Why? It has a polished and easy to use interface for beginners but is lighter than standard Ubuntu.
  • Pros:
    • Simple and modern design with a Windows-like taskbar.
    • Ubuntu based so great software support.
    • Light on resources so good for older or mid range hardware.
  • Best For: Users looking for something elegant but still easy to use.
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@hydn. Many thanks. I have downloaded Zorin but not tried it yet. Budgie looks good as does most all Linux distros. I will load on virtualbox and post back on my opinions of them

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My pleasure!! Enjoy the journey, there’s no destination with Linux. We are all learning more about it daily and trying new options including distros. Recently, I gave Fedora Silverblue and Vanilla Linux a go. That was my first time trying immutable distros. Keep us posted.

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One note from my experience: Installing to a VM can be helpful for general look but in some circumstances it may prevent a full evaluation with some hardware. If you encounter such an issue, you can install the OS to a fast USB flash drive (e.g. Samsung FIT 32GB) and then do the evaluation by running from that USB. (Of course, this requires your device to have a fast USB port, also.) But this allowed me to do the hardware tweaks, etc. I needed to completely evaluate. Just something to keep in mind.

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@hydn and @Ironrod…Thank you both. Ironrod, I just purchased 2 fast USB’s, so your advice is welcome and I will do that. Going to try Zorin later on and I’ll post back on my findings.

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I might be missing something in this thread, but what about Linux Mint? I feel like it feels most conventions Windows users would be comfortable with.

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My very first Linux experience coming off of Windows was using Linux Mint. I used that for several years. The layout was very familiar. Task bar and menu on the bottom. That is one thing most Windows users look for.

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Exactly, while also not trying to enforce Windows-isms and providing a coherent and well-curated system.

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