The transition from Windows or OS X to Linux can be very hard for beginners since Linux operating systems have an almost entirely different user environment. Thankfully, there are hundreds of great Linux distributions out there that makes this transition as smooth as possible. In this short list, I will feature some of the best Linux distro’s out there that are suitable for individuals who are looking to jump from Windows or OS X to a completely free and open playground.
Linux Mint 17
Linux Mint is probably the best distro for people coming in from Windows. With that familiar start button and Windows-like user interface, Linux Mint will make all those Windows geeks feel right at home.
Currently ranking on top of the DistroWatch website, Linux Mint appears to be getting even popular than it’s big father, Ubuntu itself. You also get to choose from several different desktop environments for Linux Mint, including Mate, Xfce, KDE and Cinnamon. Personally, I prefer Cinnamon for its beautiful visual effects.
Linux Mint is not only beautiful and easy to use, but there’s also a massive and growing active community behind it. They will always be there to support you in difficulties you may run into while getting used to the OS.
Kubuntu and Lubuntu
Lubuntu and Kubuntu may be unfamiliar names for some people, but they are still two of the best Linux distributions available at the moment. Based on Ubuntu, Lubuntu Kubuntu both were made by communities of Free and Open Source enthusiasts.
Lubuntu comes with the familiar Windows user interface based on LXDE, so it’s perfect for Windows fans. The OS is also very light, speedy and energy-efficient, which means it will run on even the very lowest hardware. The easy to use environment of Lubuntu makes it easier to get familiar even for the Linux newbies who doesn’t have much knowledge in using command line tools. If you have a computer or a laptop with very low-specs, Lubuntu should be your first choice.
Kubuntu on the other hand focuses more on a beautiful user interface. It’s also very familiar to Windows and comes with plenty of small games that you can play through KDE Games website.
ElementaryOS Luna
ElementaryOS is well known for its gorgeous user interface that mimics MacOS. This one right here is the best Linux distro for people switching from Apple OS X. The current version of ElementaryOS, “Luna” comes with a beautiful interface and a dock that lets you easily access all your apps.
Even without a huge community, ElementaryOS has improved over the years while keeping its own standard of quality. Right now this is my favorite Linux distro of all. Latest release of the ElementaryOS, “Freya” is currently in the making and it will be released very soon.
Ubuntu 14.04
A Linux distro listing wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Ubuntu. The current Ubuntu 14.04 Long Term Service edition arrived with lots of polished services, making it the most stable Linux distribution out there. In my opinion, Ubuntu 14.04 LTS is the best thing we have right now close to a worthy rival to Windows and OS X.
If you feel crazy enough to try an entirely different platform on unfamiliar grounds, Ubuntu 14 is the best place to start. If you’re up for the challenge you will be amazed by the quality feel of this operating system. Constant updates and the supportive community will make it even more wonderful.
Now make your pick and try an OS, after all they’re all FREE!
(All images, trademarks shown on this post are the property of their respective owners)
Follow @nrjperera – Roshan Jerad Perera
