Installing a Linux distribution should be the least of your concerns when selecting one, as doing so is a monumental undertaking in and of itself. There are several Linux distributions available, but picking the best one involves extensive research, tolerance, endurance, and determination. Okay, maybe not the last one, but look! Some of the top Linux distributions for newcomers are listed below. We’ll briefly discuss each distro’s features and the benefits of picking it over the others in this list.
The abundance of choices Linux users have is what makes it so beautiful. Some refer to it as the fragmentation of Linux distributions, but we prefer to refer to it as Linux’s strength. It enables users to select a Linux distribution that fits their needs and learn new skills. A beginner-friendly Linux distribution, a lightweight distribution, a distribution for gamers, etc. can all be found using the same selection.
Best Linux Distributions For New or Novice Users
Here are a few of the top distributions to get you going. Please take note that these are not listed in any particular order of preference; you may select any of these based on your personal preferences:
1. Linux Mint
One of the most well-known Linux distributions is Linux Mint. It has developed over time to become one of Ubuntu, its parent operating system,’s main rivals. It is well known for giving a newcomer one of the most complete and well-polished desktop experiences. If someone asks us to suggest the top Linux distribution for beginners, Linux Mint will unquestionably be at the top of our lists.
What makes Linux Mint such a great distribution for novices, then? How is Mint adaptable to the average Windows user? The reason Linux Mint was developed is so that beginners may use it right out of the box. With Mint’s vast collection of pre-bundled tools, Windows users can switch to Linux Mint without any remorse. It turns out to perform admirably on both powerful PCs and laptops.
Linux Mint comes in three different major editions: Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce.
Why Choose Linux Mint?
- Near-perfect desktop experience.
- Cinnamon desktop is feature-rich yet lightweight.
- Full access to Ubuntu software repositories.
- Great and responsive community.
Visit the Linux Mint’s website here.
2. Ubuntu
It goes without saying that Ubuntu is a fantastic pick, but why? This is as a result of the distro’s extended tenure in the Linux market and rising popularity. It was developed because Debian was once difficult to install and continues to be so today.
Every each edition is more polished and packed with new features and enhancements; several PC manufacturers, including Dell and Lenovo, provide computers with Ubuntu already installed on them. Following its success on desktops, Ubuntu has also made significant progress in the cloud. The substantial user base and online forums of Ubuntu are yet another important benefit for new Linux users.
One of Ubuntu’s drawbacks is that it encourages users to utilize Snaps rather than the quicker Flatpak and apt package managers. This is terrible news for an operating system based on the Linux kernel because Linux is meant to be open source and unobtrusive.
Ubuntu is available in a variety of variants, including Ubuntu Kylin, Edubuntu, Lubuntu, Xubuntu, Ubuntu MATE, Ubuntu Studio, Ubuntu Budgie, and Kubuntu, in addition to the already well-known vanilla Ubuntu.
Why Choose Ubuntu?
- Tons of free software in the Software Center
- Vast community
- Lots of flavors to suit your needs
- Compatible with most hardware
Visit the Ubuntu website here.
3. Pop!_OS
There’s no need to introduce Pop!_OS. Due to some of its distinctive features, such as Pop Shell and a different distribution that has NVIDIA drivers preinstalled, it has been able to amass a tremendous amount of popularity in recent years, making it one of the top distributions for gaming.
And that isn’t all. It is relatively stable because it is an Ubuntu-based distribution. Pop!_GNOME used to be the OS’s default desktop until recently, when System76 made the decision to create its own environment, dubbed COSMIC, based on GNOME. Overall, it is unquestionably among the greatest Linux distributions for both newcomers and gamers. The distribution will shortly transition to the brand-new COSMIC desktop environment, which was created using the Rust programming language.
Why Choose Pop!_OS?
- Flatpak support
- Great stability
- A great number of nifty features like Window tiling, etc
- Separate ISO for laptops/PCs with NVIDIA GPUs
Visit the Pop!_OS website here.
4. Zorin OS
Despite the fact that Canonical undoubtedly put in a lot of effort to develop and popularize Ubuntu, many other operating system developers have devoted their time to building one of the best Ubuntu-based Linux distributions for beginners. In addition to Linux Mint, Zorin OS is a significant contender that emphasizes usability and user-friendliness.
Zorin OS bills itself as a replacement for Windows and macOS, and while we’ll let you make that decision, it comes packed with all the tools need to carry out daily chores. Zorin OS is undoubtedly the greatest Linux distribution for Windows users, including a Windows-like interface that was created with beginners in mind. For someone who has only ever used Windows and wants to convert to Linux, its Windows 10-inspired desktop is fantastic.
Why Choose Zorin OS?
- Focus on user-friendliness
- Windows-like interface
- Great out-of-the-box experience
- Appealing desktop effects
- Feature-packed media software
Visit the Zorin OS website here.
5. elementary OS
Although it is frequently cited as one of the most beautiful Linux distributions available, this visually gorgeous desktop is much more than that. The developers of elementary OS refer to it as a quick and open alternative to Windows and macOS. We’ll let you make that decision, but we can declare with certainty that Elementary OS is among the top distributions for newcomers.
Contrary to other distributions, elementary has a lot of intriguing features. It’s simple, charming, and intuitive. The designers of elementary are masters of design, and its operating system guards against user confusion brought on by an abundance of choices.
The OS has a basic dock at the bottom and a panel at the top, which make it visually appealing. This beginner-friendly Linux distro comes with a number of preinstalled programs that all adhere to a simple design. Overall, if a new user doesn’t want to practice terminal magic, this Linux version is pretty clean. Pantheon is the default desktop environment in Elementary OS.
Why Choose elementary OS?
- Visually appealing
- Stable and lightweight
- Clean looking desktop
- A lot of useful, pre-installed software
Visit the elementary OS website here.
6. MX Linux
When it comes to its strengths, MX Linux, a collaboration between the MEPIC community and the antiX Linux distribution, places itself differently. MX Linux describes itself as a midweight operating system, in contrast to other distros that describe themselves as lightweight or performance-focused.
The ease of installation and recognizable appearance of MX Linux help new users feel comfortable using it. This Debian GNU/Linux-based system also has quite decent hardware detection and automatic configuration for a seamless experience right out of the box. This beginner-friendly distribution makes use of Xfce as its default desktop environment.
Why Choose MX Linux?
- A unique midweight approach
- Familiar Xfce desktop environment
- Easy installation and configuration
Visit the MX Linux website here.
7. Solus
The independent Linux distribution Solus was created from the ground up. It adheres to the rolling release methodology of the “Install Today. Updates Forever” model, which guarantees frequent update delivery. The Solus team has developed its own Budgie desktop environment in addition to providing installation discs with a variety of desktop environments.
The beautiful and modern design of the Solus will appeal to Linux newcomers. Even though Solus has a smaller range of dedicated software than other distros, the programs are highly developed, making the included software really usable. The distribution is renowned for providing a trouble-free, seamless experience with hardware difficulties. As anticipated, the installation goes without a hitch, and you can quickly have a functional system up and running.
It is one of the greatest distributions for programming because it includes development tools that are already pre-bundled. It is also among the top non-Ubuntu-based distributions available.
Why Choose Solus?
- Beautiful user interface
- Easy installation
- Regular updates and excellent hardware support
Visit the Solus website here.
8. Deepin Linux
Deepin Linux is another visually appealing Linux distribution for novices, similar to elementary OS. Deeping was developed by the Chinese Linux community to offer a useful Linux desktop environment. Deepin is unique in that it has one of the easiest installation processes.
A new user might benefit from Deepin Linux’s simple and uncluttered user interface. The modern-looking icons and color scheme are eye-catching. To manage all settings, users, themes, wallpapers, etc., you must visit the right panel in order to access the system settings.
In terms of apps, Deeping Linux is successful in attracting new Linux users. It has a ton of helpful preinstalled software, including LibreOffice, the Chrome browser, the Nautilus file manager, the Deepin media player, the USB Creator, and the Nautilus media player. Deepin feels like a breath of new air, even for seasoned users. So, feel free to give it a shot. The Deepin Desktop Environment (DDE) is a component of Deepin Linux.
Why Choose Deepin Linux?
- Deepin’s own desktop environment is visually pleasing
- Beautiful and pleasant experience
- Custom installer and system settings
Visit the Deepin Linux website here.
9. Manjaro Linux
Manjaro is our third personal favorite Linux distribution on this list of the best Linux distributions for beginners, behind Linux Mint and elementary OS. For those who are sick of Ubuntu or distros based on Ubuntu, Manjaro is among the greatest non-Ubuntu Linux distributions. There are several excellent reasons why it is frequently referred to as Arch Linux for people. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that its learning curve is steeper than that of alternative options.
One of the fastest-growing Linux distributions available is Manjaro, which is based on Arch Linux. It’s a visually appealing and user-friendly Linux distribution that seems to be the ideal alternative to Windows. Manjaro strives to enhance the usability of Arch Linux by maintaining its own package repositories.
It has an installer built in for quick installation. Remember that Manjaro is a rolling Linux distribution, which means that updates are always being made. A beginner would adore Manjaro’s ease of switching between several Linux kernels, which is another fantastic feature. Xfce and KDE are the two main Manjaro Linux versions. There are further community editions.
Why Choose Manjaro Linux OS?
- Power of Arch Linux without hassle
- Easy to use
- Rolling Linux distro
- Great distro for Gaming
- Fast growing community
Visit the Manjaro Linux website here.
10. Linux Lite
Want to use a Linux distribution that is friendly to your old computer and suited for new users? You ought to give Linux Lite a try in that case. It requires little of you, as the name would imply. It is pre-configured and is completely working. It is based on the Ubuntu LTS versions. Why does that matter? It implies that a new Linux user won’t have to install additional applications in order to carry out daily tasks. Firefox, GIMP, LibreOffice, Thunderbird, VLC media player, and other programs are included.
For Windows users who want to explore the world of Linux, Linux Lite includes a menu that is comparable to Windows. For streamlined operation, it also offers automated upgrades. Therefore, Linux Lite is the best option if you want to test out Linux on your old laptop or PC. By default, Linux Lite uses the Xfce desktop environment.
Why Choose Linux Lite?
- Very lightweight Linux distro
- A great choice for Windows users
- Easy to use
- Optimized for old hardware
- Pre-installed software
Visit the Linux Lite website here.
Honorable Mentions for the Best Linux Distributions
There are a select few Linux distributions that shine brighter than stars in this huge, unending sea, but the shadow of more powerful stars looms over them. Here are some further top Linux distributions:
- Fedora – For daily use.
- openSUSE – For IT professionals.
- Garuda Linux – For Gaming.
- EndeavourOS – A Manjaro alternative.
- KDE Neon – A good-looking distro.
