Many people think they have to operate Linux via complicated commands. That is no longer the case, at least if you pick out the right distributions. Which Linux version suits you best? We introduce ten popular candidates.
Linux is the ‘brand’ that covers a lot of different operating systems. These are also called distributions. Linux programming code is public, so anyone can get started with the software and release their own distribution. This explains the overwhelming offer. A number of distributions are now very extensive, making them effortless to compete with Windows.
These operating systems are usually in Dutch and are well suited for performing frequently used computer tasks. To surf on the Internet, editing picture’s, Internet banking, playing games, creating documents and playing media are no problem at all.
In this article we will not go into all installation steps, but we will point out the possibility of installing Linux dualboot. That way, you try it out alongside your regular Windows 10 installation. If you don’t like it, you can just as easily remove it.
On to the ten Linux distributions worth a look.
Ubuntu Desktop
Ubuntu Desktop is perhaps the best known Linux distribution among home users. This operating system is extremely complete. Name a computer task and Ubuntu Desktop does have a suitable program on board. Unfortunately, the versatile nature of this operating system also has a downside. The recommended system requirements don’t lie.
Not every old machine has a dual-core processor with a clock speed of at least 2 GHz on board. In addition, this operating system requires 4 GB of ram and 25 GB of free disk space. But if your machine meets the conditions, you are guaranteed to enjoy this stable operating system.
After all, excellent programs are available for photo editing (GIMP), office purposes (LibreOffice), e-mail (Thunderbird) and surfing (Firefox).
Linux Mint
Of course also possible Linux Mint not missing. Even for the most die-hard Windows users, switching to Linux Mint is fairly painless. The navigation structure of Windows and Linux Mint is similar. For example, there is a task bar, while programs can be reached via a menu button. Moreover, all kinds of applications have been installed, so that you can use them immediately.
There are several editions of Linux Mint. Compared to MATE, Cinnamon looks nicer, while the latter puts less strain on the system. There are no major differences in functionality. Finally, a lightweight edition of Linux Mint is also available with Xfce.
CloudReady
CloudReady is based on Chromium OS, which in turn has Linux roots. An ideal operating system to transform an old laptop into a Chromebook. It is important to know that there are no programs available for CloudReady. This operating system is intended to work in the cloud as much as possible.
All kinds of online Google services are available within the menus for this. After logging into the Google account you can use any web app without restrictions. After installation, an English-language user environment will appear, but fortunately you can easily change it to Dutch.
LibreELEC
LibreELEC is a great choice if you want to use an old PC or laptop as a media player. After installation you only have access to the media program Kodi. Collect and play all films, series, TV programs and music. This can be done via locally connected storage carriers and other sources in the network.
LibreELEC especially has added value if you connect the computer to a television. The menu with large blocks is intended to be operated from the couch. Use a wireless keyboard and mouse or mce remote control with infrared receiver. Keep in mind that you can’t use any other programs besides Kodi.
Elementary OS
Attention Mac enthusiasts! MacOS is a great source of inspiration for the development team of Elementary OS. For example, the Dock with apps and the program windows seem to come straight from Apple’s operating system. In addition to a slick design, there is also no reason to complain in terms of functionality. Rotate multiple desktops next to each other and limit distractions by temporarily turning off all notifications with one mouse click.
Elementary OS provides relatively few programs. The makers prefer not to burden you with apps that you don’t use anyway. Fortunately, you can easily add fresh software via the available AppCenter. Furthermore, this operating system responds very quickly, so you don’t have to wait long anywhere.
Deepin
For the installation of Deepin just a moment, because downloading the installation file is painfully slow. Furthermore, the developer has dropped the 32bit version, so this operating system is only suitable for 64bit systems. If the mentioned disadvantages are not a stumbling block, you get a full-fledged Windows replacement. With a little imagination, Deepin even seems to come straight from Microsoft’s stable.
The colorful user environment and the start button at the bottom left feel immediately familiar. As with Windows, this start button gives users direct access to programs. Speaking of programs; quite a few of these are already pre-installed, such as a browser, office program and e-mail client. Although Deepin has Chinese roots, a Dutch translation is available.
Lubuntu
As the name suggests, Lubuntu partly based on the Ubuntu discussed earlier. An important difference is that Lubuntu makes hardly any demands on the hardware, so that it also functions flawlessly on old systems that are roughly ten years old. Still, this lightweight operating system allows users to perform all kinds of tasks. For example, the makers supply a simple word processor, drawing program and media player.
The included applications have been selected with care. The well-known browser Firefox is available for surfing purposes. By the way, don’t expect too much from the design, because you don’t have to expect graphic highlights. Everything is aimed at providing users with a smooth computing experience.
Peppermint OS
Many Linux distributions are derived from Ubuntu and Peppermint OS is a well-known example of this. This operating system is known for its low system requirements and minimalist user environment. So don’t expect all kinds of frills, because Peppermint only contains useful functions.
Furthermore, the developer places the initiative largely with the user. For this reason, few pre-installed programs are available, although you can download them via the integrated Software Manager. A handy option is that you can give frequently used web applications a place in the menu.
Ubuntu Studio
Is for creatives Ubuntu Studio an attractive option. Handy for those who place higher demands on an operating system in the field of audio, photo and / or video editing. For example, edit a raw file or flan a song together with a free audio program. Furthermore, Ubuntu Studio also has advanced software to design razor-sharp vector graphics.
Do programs like Ardor, Audacity, Guitarix, Inktscape, MyPaint, OpenShot Video Editor and Kdenlive have a light on? Maybe this operating system is something for you. Keep in mind that Ubuntu Studio is particularly suitable for machines with sufficient computing power because of all the graphical violence.
ZorinOS
The user environment of many Linux distributions looks a bit outdated, but that’s up to date Zorin OS certainly not the case. In terms of appearance, this operating system is a bit like Windows. The taskbar and start menu, for example, feel familiar. Interesting for people who are making the switch to Linux for the first time. The navigation structure is very clear, so that new users will find their way effortlessly.
The makers have already included the necessary software as standard, including the user-friendly office suite LibreOffice. Finally, pay attention to which version of Zorin OS you are installing. You can use the Core edition for free. There is also a lightweight version under the name Lite. According to the developer, it even works on systems that are fifteen years old.
Is there something for you?
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