Zorin OS experienced a significant increase in downloads following the release of Windows 10. Within a two-day stretch, Zorin OS had over 100,000 downloads, which was a record for the distribution. Meanwhile, Linux Mint has been one of the most popular distributions for some time. Given that both of these distributions are enjoying a continued rise in popularity, along with the end of Windows 10 support, you might be looking at one or the other to serve as either your first or your next Linux distribution. Do a quick search and you'll find countless articles claiming why one is better than the other (or why one is better than them all).
That probably doesn't help you decide which Linux distribution to try. Let me see if Cyber Dog, with ZDnet’s help, can help you with that decision.[1]
Linux Mint: Who is it for?
Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu, so it enjoys a rock-solid and user-friendly base. On top of that, Ubuntu has outstanding hardware recognition, thanks to the HWE (Hardware Enablement) kernel, which is found in Ubuntu Long-Term Support (LTS) releases. The HWE kernel offers better support for newer hardware while maintaining system stability. On top of that, Linux Mint defaults to the Cinnamon desktop environment. Cinnamon will be instantly familiar to new users because it's laid out like any standard PC desktop, with a panel, start menu, system tray, and clickable icons. Cinnamon is incredibly easy to use, but not terribly flexible.
That lack of flexibility is a choice, as it ensures a stable environment that is more challenging to break than, say, Xfce.
So, right out of the gate, you have a solid base and a user-friendly desktop environment. Those two elements alone make for an operating system that anyone can reliably (and enjoyably) use. Linux Mint has a near-zero learning curve for Windows users. And then, there's the lack of telemetry. Linux Mint does not spy on you, push ads on you, or include any unwanted features (such as AI).
Additionally, Linux Mint:
- Uses a minimal amount of RAM (especially compared to Windows)
- Performs brilliantly on older hardware
- Is optimized for SSDs with proper TRIM support
- Offers several power modes for better power management
- Allows for theming, applets, desklets, and advanced workspace management
So, who is Linux Mint ideal for? Windows 10 users who want to leave Microsoft OSes and don't want to deal with any sort of learning curve.
- Those with older or newer PCs.
- Users who want a rock-solid OS.
- Users who value their privacy.
- Users who want long-term support.
- Zorin OS: Who is it for?
OK, let’s visit yet another distribution that's based on Ubuntu. Earlier, Zorin OS has seen an impressive uptick in popularity since October 2025. Those who've been using or testing Zorin OS for years already know why this Linux distribution is one of the best options for new and old users alike.
Zorin OS is as easy to use as any operating system on the market. Sure, I can make that claim about several Linux distributions, but Zorin OS takes that ease-of-use to new levels. First, there's the desktop environment. Zorin OS allows you to select from four different layouts. You can also purchase the Pro version for a one-time fee of $47. The Pro version gives you six additional layouts (including a MacOS-like option), so you can have the exact desktop interface you want. Thanks to the Zorin Appearance app, you can switch the desktop layout any time you like.
Now let's see another operating system do that with such ease. To make this even more appealing, each of the desktop layouts is highly polished and refined. The developers have gone to great lengths to make sure the UI is stunning, no matter which layout you select.
Zorin OS has another cool trick up its sleeve. Let's say you forget that you're not using Windows and you download a Windows app to install. You double-click on that .exe or .msi file to launch the installer, and Zorin OS will instead inform you of Linux-compatible alternatives you can install. For example, if you were to download an installer for MS Office, Zorin OS would most likely recommend you install LibreOffice.
How handy is that? Like most Linux distributions, Zorin OS also includes a GUI app store that makes installing applications incredibly easy. With the Zorin OS app store, you get categorized app browsing, a powerful search tool, one-click installation, Flatpak and Snap integration, and tons of apps from which to choose (both open-source and proprietary). Because Zorin OS uses an Ubuntu base, you get the same level of hardware compatibility as found in Linux Mint. You also get a good collection of preinstalled software, including:
- LibreOffice
- Firefox
- Thunderbird
- GIMP
- VLC Media Player
From the start, Zorin OS is ready to go. And with Flatpak/Snap integration, you can easily install the proprietary apps you need, such as Spotify and Slack.
On top of those features, Zorin OS also includes:
- Zorin Connect - to create a seamless connection between Linux and Android
- Painless upgrades
- Pre-installed gaming tools (such as Steam and Lutris)
- Outstanding accessibility tools
- Does not collect any data and doesn't include AI
- Built-in window snapping
Which one is for you? Let’s make this easy for those who might still be wondering which one to choose. The breakdown is simple.
- Use Linux Mint if you want a modern, stable, and privacy-respecting operating system that offers serious hardware support, ease of use, and a Windows-like UI.
- Use Zorin OS if you want a modern, stable, and privacy-respecting operating system that offers serious hardware support, multiple desktop layouts to choose from, simplifies syncing with your Android phone, and supports both Flatpak and Snap applications.
In all honesty, you cannot go wrong with either choice. In the end, if you want a more modern-looking desktop environment, go with Zorin OS. If you prefer to stick with the old-school, Windows-like layout, Linux Mint is your best choice.
This article is shared at no charge for educational and informational purposes only.
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[1] https://www.zdnet.com/article/linux-mint-vs-zorin-os-i-compared-the-two-windows-alternatives-and-heres-my-advice/
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