From Elementary OS to Linux Mint: A Personal Distro Showdown

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ZDNET’s main points

• Both Elementary OS and Linux Mint are excellent options for beginners.
• Each distribution is tailored to a specific type of user.
• You can download and use both at no cost.

Linux offers a staggering variety of distributions, much like the countless pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. Their numbers reach into the thousands, spanning from beginner-friendly platforms to highly complex systems.

Unsurprisingly, if you’re just getting started with Linux, you’ll want to begin with a distribution that eases you into the world of open-source operating systems without any hassle. While every Linux enthusiast has their own top pick for newcomers, I believe the ideal choice really depends on your previous operating systems experience.

I want to discuss two distributions that are particularly suitable for users transitioning from either MacOS or Windows. Individuals who are new to Linux likely don’t want to jump into an operating system that feels completely foreign.

This brings us to Elementary OS and Linux Mint. Let’s determine which one is the better fit for you.

Elementary OS

I have a particular fondness for Elementary OS. I’ve even once referred to it as my all-time favorite distribution. I relied on it for several years and found it to be an absolute joy to use. Elementary OS features a sleek desktop design that will feel immediately intuitive to anyone used to MacOS. You’ll notice a bottom toolbar and a top bar, all wrapped up in a tasteful, elegant theme. All these elements combine to create a Linux distribution that is not only straightforward to navigate but also visually appealing.

Also: Elementary OS 8 upholds its legacy of a stunning, intuitive desktop

Built on the long-term support (LTS) version of Ubuntu, Elementary OS inherits the same dependability as its parent distribution, and it’s equally user-friendly, if not more so. The default theme is sophisticated and well-designed, making it very easy to interact with.

Upon logging in, you’ll see a dock and a top bar. The dock provides quick access to essential tools like the file manager, web browser, to-do list, calendar, music player, video player, image viewer, app store, and a button for adding new workspaces.

The top bar includes a desktop menu (on the far left), quick calendar access (in the center), and the system tray (on the far right).

No one, regardless of their Linux experience, will have any trouble with Elementary OS, especially if they’re coming from MacOS.

One of the first things you’ll notice when you open the desktop menu is the limited number of preinstalled applications. Don’t worry, because Elementary OS has a fantastic AppCenter for downloading additional software.

Elementary OS also raises the bar on security with its Secure Session feature, which strengthens privacy and security by requiring your permission before any application can access system resources like cameras or microphones. You can also configure screen time limits, define custom keyboard shortcuts, and more.

Who should use Elementary OS?

If you’ve been a MacOS user and are considering a switch (or just want to experiment) with Linux, Elementary OS is the distribution for you. With an interface inspired by Apple’s, a user-friendly app store for software installation, robust security features, and overall simplicity, you’ll feel right at home.

That doesn’t mean Windows users should overlook it, as Elementary OS is intuitive enough for anyone to pick up.

Also: The top Linux laptops of 2024

Elementary OS is an operating system that truly lives up to its name: using it is elementary, but that doesn’t mean it lacks power for everyday tasks.

What is Linux Mint?

If you’re transitioning from Windows, there’s a Linux distribution that’s perfect for you, and it’s called Linux Mint.

Linux Mint is widely regarded as the best distribution for beginners. One key reason is its commitment to a classic desktop layout. You’ll find a bottom panel, a start menu, a system tray, and desktop icons. And because Linux Mint is built on Ubuntu, you benefit from the same package management system and rock-solid stability.

While Elementary OS goes for a more contemporary look, Linux Mint might appear a bit dated. Rather than focusing heavily on visual flair, Linux Mint prioritizes simplicity, and it excels at it. Linux Mint is as easy to use as any operating system available today.

Also: I tested the latest Linux Mint 22.3 – it’s a showcase of refinement and quality-of-life improvements

While Elementary OS chooses to include only a minimal set of preinstalled software, Linux Mint comes packed with everything you need to hit the ground running. It includes productivity suites (like LibreOffice), multimedia players, chat applications, the ability to easily turn websites into web apps, and every utility you could think of. Once Linux Mint is installed, you’re ready to go.

And then there’s the system snapshots feature, which lets you create restore points. If anything goes wrong, you can revert your desktop to a previously working state. This uses Timeshift, which I’ve covered in How to create system restore points on Linux with Timeshift – and why you should.

In terms of customization, you get a theme application that lets you choose a theme, modify the appearance, and select a color scheme. Or you can dive into the advanced options for more detailed control over the look and feel.

Mint also provides a driver manager to simplify installing the correct drivers for your hardware components.

Who should use Linux Mint?

If you’re looking for a ready-to-use Linux solution that you can install and start using immediately, and you’re coming from Windows, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better choice than Linux Mint. No, it’s not nearly as visually stunning as Elementary OS, but it offers more built-in features, has a larger community, and has a faster development cycle (meaning you’ll receive new releases and updates more quickly).

Which one should you choose?

It’s straightforward: if you’re a MacOS user, go with Elementary OS. If you’re a Windows user, go with Linux Mint. Either way, both distributions are exceptional and will serve you well for years to come.

Also: The 6 Linux distros I predict will dominate 2026 – and why

If either of these distributions catches your interest, download an ISO (Elementary OS/Linux Mint), create a bootable USB drive, boot up, and install.

You won’t be disappointed.