Linux Mint – The most Windows-friendly free operating system.
Linux Mint is a free Linux distribution based on Ubuntu and known for its ease of use, stability, and elegant interface. It’s especially popular with former Windows users because it looks and feels like Windows—without ads, licensing hassles, or heavy resource use.
Mint is one of the best choices if you want to try Linux but don’t want to mess with the terminal or learn a brand-new interface from scratch. Instead, you get a classic Start menu, familiar shortcuts, and an interface that feels like home—just faster and free of clutter.
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🎯 Features and user experience
Linux Mint comes in three editions with different desktop environments: Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce. Cinnamon is the default and most modern, while MATE and Xfce are lighter and faster—great for older hardware.
The system ships with a set of preinstalled apps that cover most needs:
- 1 for documents and spreadsheets
- Firefox for browsing
- Pix for image viewing
- Celluloid for video playback
- Timeshift for system snapshots and backups
Installation is as easy as on Ubuntu, and the software is maintained by a dedicated developer team that delivers frequent updates and security fixes.
🔐 Security and updates
Linux Mint inherits Ubuntu’s reliable package management and security model, but stands out by giving you more control over updates. You choose which updates to install and when—ideal if you want stability without the risk of something breaking after a major update.
The Timeshift feature is especially valuable: You can take snapshots of the entire system so you can always roll back if something goes wrong.
👶 Is Linux Mint good for beginners?
Yes—arguably the best. Linux Mint feels almost like a leaner, faster version of Windows, and many users won’t notice much difference in daily use. Mint also has a huge global community and plenty of English guides online.
🎮 Software and compatibility
Mint uses .deb packages and has access to Ubuntu’s vast software catalog via the Software Manager, which works a bit like an app store. You can install everything from Spotify and Steam to GIMP and Visual Studio Code with a few clicks.
However, the same rules as on Ubuntu apply: Not all Windows software runs natively. Apps like Photoshop and Microsoft Office require alternatives (or Wine/Proton solutions), and there are many great free options.
📊 Comparison with Ubuntu
| Feature | Linux Mint | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | Classic/Windows-like | Modern/GNOME |
| Performance | Lighter and faster | A bit heavier |
| Updates | User-controlled | Automatic and centralized |
| Ease of use | Very high | High |
📥 Download link
👉 Download Linux Mint
(Choose the Cinnamon edition for the most modern experience)
Top 5 tips for Linux Mint
1. Enable faster mirrors and update everything
After installation, always switch to the fastest software sources to maximize download speed:
- Go to Menu → Software Sources → Official packages (main).
- Click “Select the best server” so the system automatically finds the fastest mirror.
- Then open Update Manager and install all updates.
➡️ This ensures stability, security, and faster updates.
2. Install essential codecs and drivers
Many multimedia formats and hardware need extra software:
- Use the “Welcome Screen” → “Install codecs” to play video and music.
- Go to Menu → Driver Manager to find and install recommended drivers (especially for NVIDIA/AMD graphics cards and Wi‑Fi).
➡️ Avoid issues with video playback and graphics glitches—get it working right from the start.
3. Customize the desktop with Desklets, Themes, and Applets
Linux Mint gives you easy ways to change appearance and functionality:
- Try Desklets (small widgets for the desktop, e.g., weather and system monitor).
- Change the theme via Menu → Themes—find dark layouts, macOS-like styles, and more.
- Right‑click the panel and choose “Add applets to the panel” for extras like a CPU monitor, shortcuts, etc.
➡️ Make the system personal and efficient for your needs.
4. Use Timeshift for automatic backups
Linux Mint includes Timeshift preinstalled—a brilliant tool for system restore:
- Start Timeshift and choose RSYNC as the method.
- Configure weekly backups and keep 3–5 restore points.
- Use it if an update or driver installation fails.
➡️ Restore your system in minutes without losing files or apps.
5. Learn keyboard shortcuts and use the terminal effectively
Keyboard shortcuts save time—here are some important ones:
- Ctrl + Alt + T: Open terminal
- Alt + F2: Run command
- Super (Windows key) + L: Lock the screen
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgradeUpdate system and packages.
df -hCheck disk usage.
➡️ The more you learn the terminal, the more powerful and efficient your Linux Mint experience becomes.