As Windows 10 approaches end of support in 2025, many users are considering upgrading to Windows 11, purchasing a new computer, or considering other operating systems if their current hardware meets the requirements. I am forced to make a decision. One such option is Linux. Linux offers a viable, inexpensive, and feature-rich alternative.
Linux is more than just a backup plan. It’s a full-featured operating system comparable to Windows and macOS, with reliability, security, ease of use, and no licensing fees. If you’re used to the Windows 10 interface, moving to Linux may seem scary, but some Linux distributions are specifically designed to make the process as smooth as possible. Below are four great options for Windows users who want to migrate to Linux without sacrificing comfort or functionality.
Read more: How to use SCP commands on Linux
KDE Neon
It’s a powerful, customizable tool that’s familiar yet offers endless flexibility.
KDE Neon introduces the KDE Plasma desktop environment, known for its highly configurable nature. Out of the box, KDE Plasma looks a bit like Windows 7 and feels familiar. However, users can not only easily adjust the interface to more closely resemble Windows 10 or 11.
Main features
- highly customizable: Whether you want the classic Windows look or something completely different, KDE Plasma lets you change almost every aspect of the interface.
- User-friendly and Ubuntu-based: Powered by Ubuntu, KDE Neon offers great hardware awareness and ease of use, making it ideal for new Linux users.
- Variety of desktop options: For those interested in alternatives, you can also convert KDE Plasma to a macOS-like layout or create your own hybrid interface.
This combination of familiarity and adaptability makes KDE Neon an excellent choice for both beginners and veteran Linux users. And best of all, it’s completely free.
A premium Linux distribution that provides a Windows-like experience.
Zorin OS
Zorin OS It meets the demands of users looking for a sophisticated operating system that balances ease of use with visual appeal. It includes multiple desktop layouts that are specifically focused on mimicking the Windows interface. The free version includes a Windows 10-like layout, while the Pro version ($47.99) adds even more options, including one that mirrors Windows 11.
Also read: How to install VirtualBox on Windows 11
Main features
- Windows-like experience: Zorin OS is instantly familiar to Windows users due to its preconfigured layout.
- Various layout options: As you become more familiar with Linux, you can switch to a layout inspired by macOS or native Linux environments, such as GNOME or KDE Plasma.
- Beginner friendly: Zorin OS is designed to be approachable for new users and offers advanced features for those who want to dig deeper.
Zorin OS’s sleek design and variety of options make Linux as modern and accessible as other proprietary operating systems. It is available for free, and the Pro version offers additional features.
blend OS
A modern, secure Linux option slightly similar to Windows 11.
blend OS is a little-known but very promising Linux distribution. It combines a sleek interface inspired by Windows 11 with the robustness of an unchanging operating system. This immutability prevents unintended changes to core components and ensures system stability and security.
Main features
- secure and immutable: BlendOS is immutable, which greatly reduces the risk of system corruption, making it a reliable choice for critical tasks.
- Multiple desktop environments: Users can choose between GNOME, KDE Plasma, Xfce, Cinnamon, Deepin, MATE, or LXQt desktops according to their preference.
- Broad application support: BlendOS supports multiple package managers (pacman, apt, Flatpak) and can enable Android app support and Fedora’s dnf package manager.
- Perfect for tech-savvy users: BlendOS is powerful but suitable for users with intermediate or advanced computer skills. You can easily install tools like Wine (for running Windows applications) and Steam (for games) to extend its functionality.
BlendOS is ideal for users who want a secure, cutting-edge Linux experience with customization and expansion options.
linux mint
It’s simple, stable, and easy to use, making it a practical alternative for Windows users.
linux mint Designed with ease of use in mind. By default, it features the Cinnamon desktop environment, which includes familiar Windows-like elements such as the Start menu, taskbar, system tray, and desktop icons. These similarities help reduce the learning curve for users migrating from Windows.
Main features
- Familiar interface: The Cinnamon desktop environment is intuitive for anyone familiar with Windows. You can also choose a version with Mate or Xfce desktop.
- Hardware compatibility: Like KDE Neon, Linux Mint is built on Ubuntu, ensuring smooth hardware support and regular updates.
- Community-driven development: Linux Mint has an active and responsive community, ensuring robust support and a stable release cycle.
Linux Mint provides a practical and inexpensive alternative for users looking for a stable and easy-to-use Linux distribution.
