Cinnamon
Most popularOffers a modern and full-featured desktop environment with robust features.
- RAM: 2GB+ (4GB recommended)
- Feel: Modern and sleek
Linux Mint
User-friendly, elegant, and powerful desktop experience
Based on
Ubuntu
Desktop
Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce
Release cycle
LTS (~2 years)
Best for
Home users, beginners
What is Linux Mint?
Linux Mint is a popular desktop Linux distribution based on Ubuntu. It is designed to offer a more complete out-of-the-box experience by including additional software that the average user will need.
Linux Mint is renowned for its user-friendliness and elegant interface, making it an excellent choice for those new to Linux. It prioritizes ease of use and multimedia support.
The philosophy of Linux Mint is to produce a modern, elegant and comfortable operating system which is both powerful and easy to use. It aims to be a bridge between the technical complexity of Linux and the simplicity desired by most users.
Editions
Linux Mint comes in multiple editions. Same base system, different interfaces.
MATE
ClassicProvides a classic desktop experience with a focus on simplicity and efficiency.
- RAM: 1GB+ (2GB recommended)
- Feel: Traditional and fast
Xfce
LightweightA lightweight desktop environment designed for older hardware or users who require a fast, efficient system.
- RAM: 512MB+ (1GB recommended)
- Feel: Fast and efficient
Key features
Elegant User Interface
Linux Mint provides an elegant and modern user interface that is both visually appealing and easy to use.
Comprehensive Out-of-the-box Experience
Comes with a full suite of applications, including multimedia codecs, ensuring a smooth user experience from the start.
Customizability
Offers a wide range of customization options, allowing users to personalize their desktop environment to their liking.
Security and Stability
Based on Ubuntu LTS releases, Linux Mint ensures long-term support, stability, and security updates.
Software Manager
An easy-to-use software manager that simplifies the installation and management of software packages.
Performance
Optimized for speed and efficiency, providing a responsive and fast experience even on older hardware.
System requirements
| Minimum | Recommended | |
|---|---|---|
| RAM | 1 GB | 2 GB+ |
| Storage | 20 GB | 100 GB+ |
| Display | 1024×768 | 1920×1080 |
| Boot | UEFI or Legacy BIOS | |
Compare Linux Mint
See how Linux Mint stacks up against other popular distros.
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FAQ
Is Linux Mint free?
Yes, Linux Mint is completely free to download, use, and distribute. It is released under an open-source license.
Is Linux Mint beginner-friendly?
Absolutely, Linux Mint is designed with beginners in mind, offering a user-friendly and intuitive interface that is easy to navigate.
Can I try Linux Mint without installing it?
Yes, you can try Linux Mint directly from a live USB or DVD without installing it on your hard drive.
What is the release cycle of Linux Mint?
Linux Mint follows an LTS release cycle, with major updates approximately every two years and regular security updates.
Is software compatibility an issue on Linux Mint?
Linux Mint supports a wide range of software, and with its Software Manager and compatibility layers like Wine, most user needs are covered.
What makes Linux Mint different from other distros?
Linux Mint is known for its focus on user-friendliness, multimedia support, and an elegant interface, making it ideal for both newcomers and experienced users.
Ready to try Linux Mint?
Download the ISO and create a bootable USB to test it out.