Once you have understood the pros and cons while shifting from Windows to Linux and decided in favor of the latter, the tougher part would be adjusting to the new environment. Thankfully, there are a few distributions of Linux which have an interface similar to that of Windows. While no Linux distribution can be like Windows 11/10, many of them do follow the Windows 7 model.
Linux distributions which look like Windows OS
Here are some Windows look-alike Linux distributions which you may like:
- Zorin OS
- Chalet OS
- Kubuntu
- Robolinux
- Linux Mint
- ReactOS
If you want to learn more about these operating systems, continue reading.
1] Zorin OS
This is perhaps one of the most Windows-like distribution of Linux. It is somewhat a replica of Windows 7, with the Start menu, Taskbar, etc. The speed of the OS distribution is appreciable. Zorin OS comes with a few pre-loaded utility apps that would make your job easier. Zorin can be downloaded from its website here.
2] Chalet OS
Chalet OS is the nearest we have to Windows Vista. Complete with the widgets and menus, the distribution is simple to use, yet efficient. Chalet’s Start menu is similar to that of Windows XP. It is basic and easy to handle. You can find a similar File Explorer in this distribution, which looks like the one of Windows 11/10. The latest version of the operating system is available here.
3] Kubuntu
While Kubuntu is a Linux distribution, it is a technology somewhere in between Windows and Ubuntu. Rather, the shift from Windows to Ubuntu is quite steep, so you could consider Kubuntu instead. Check more about it on the company’s website here.
4] Robolinux
If you miss Windows applications on your Linux distribution, Robolinux will allow you to install the same without any hassle. You can also copy your whole C: drive from Windows to Robolinux. Cool, isn’t it! The distribution can be downloaded from the company’s website here.
5] Linux Mint
One reason I included Linux Mint in this list is the because it’s versatile. Most Linux distributions are known for their speed and simplicity, while Windows has a lot more options. Linux Mint is pretty versatile. It is the nearest to Windows 11/10 amongst all Linux distributions. Get it from its website here.
6]ReactOS
ReactOS is a free, open-source reimplementation of Windows. Imagine running your favorite Windows applications and drivers in an open-source environment you can trust. That’s the mission of ReactOS.org.
Which Linux distribution is most like Windows?
As there are multiple Linux distributions, you can switch among various distributions to find the most suitable one for you. However, when it comes to the app’s availability, workflow, security, etc., you can trust Zorin OS, Chalet OS, Kubuntu, Linux Mint, etc.
What is the best Linux alternative to Windows 11/10?
If you have never used Linux before, it is recommended to start your journey with Ubuntu. You can find tons of apps, the user interface is very user-friendly, and so on. However, if you want to download a Linux distribution that looks like Windows 11/10, you may opt for Zorin OS or Linux Mint.
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KaranKhanna@TWC
Karan is a B.Tech, with several years of experience as an IT Analyst. He is a passionate Windows user who loves troubleshooting problems and writing about Microsoft technologies.
