The best Linux distros if you come from the Microsoft ecosystem

With the end of support for Windows 10 just around the corner, many are looking for an alternative operating system. Windows 11 isn't an option for many computers, and macOS is relegated exclusively to Apple computers. The solution? Here's what we're looking for. The best Linux distros you can try if you're coming from the Microsoft ecosystem.

The best Linux distros if you come from the Microsoft ecosystem

Migrating from Windows to Linux may seem like a leap of faith, especially for those who have been immersed in the Microsoft ecosystem for years. But the experience doesn't have to be so traumaticIt's more like changing cars: everything feels different at first, but you soon discover many similarities and even some improvements. Are you seriously considering it?

In this article I present you the best Linux distros (distributions) with a smooth learning curve and a familiar, stable, and modern user experienceYou may have heard of some, such as Linux Mint, Ubuntu, or Fedora, which are the most popular. Others, such as Zorin or Elementary, have been making waves in recent months as decent alternatives to Windows.

Of course, changing operating systems implies Learn to use alternatives to the Windows applications you used every dayBrowser, office suite, media player, email client, image editor, etc., for every Windows application, there's a Linux equivalent. With a little patience and practice, you'll learn to use them and get results just as good as those you got with Microsoft.

Linux Mint – Stable and familiar

Mint stands out among the best Linux distros for those coming from the Microsoft ecosystem. And no wonder, since its desktop environment Cinnamon It is designed to look and function like the classic Windows 7/10 desktop. First notes many similarities: The bottom bar with the start menu on the left, open app icons, system tray, and clock on the right… It’s almost impossible to get lost.

In addition to being very intuitive, Linux Mint comes loaded with all the essentials: Firefox Thunderbird (mail), LibreOffice (alternative to Microsoft Office), VLC (media player) and GIMP (basic image editing). It also has a driver management tool, which easily detects installed hardware. And if that weren't enough, its installer is one of the easiest and most guided in the Linux world.

Zorin OS – The friendliest gateway

For those coming to Linux after years in the Microsoft ecosystem, Zorin OS It may be the friendliest gateway of all. It's among the best Linux distros because it practically It is a copy of Windows 7/10, but with exceptional performanceAnd this is true even on older or low-end computers.

In my personal experience, I was able to verify how Zorin OS It handled the demands of multitasking quite well.: navigation, text and image editing, multimedia playback, etc. In addition, it has a slightly stocked app store, and even a mobile app for synchronizing Android phones.

Ubuntu – The Customizable Giant

We're still on the hunt for the best Linux distros if you're coming from the Microsoft ecosystem, and Ubuntu is another great option, especially if you're looking for stability and customization. The purest version of Ubuntu doesn't look much like Windows in terms of visuals, but you can opt for its friendlier variants, such as Kubuntu or Ubuntu Mate.

Kubuntu It is an official variant of Ubuntu that uses the KDE Plasma desktop environment, known for its polished aesthetics and high degree of customization. On the other hand, if you prefer a more classic and lightweight experience, similar to Windows XP/7, Ubuntu Mate It is perfect for you. Either option is easy to master. for those who are more accustomed to the Microsoft interface.

Best Linux Distros Fedora Workstation – Ideal for Developers

It's true that Fedora doesn't seek to imitate Windows and is more aimed at developers and IT professionals. However, Its Workstation version is quite friendly to new users., especially if you're coming from the professional Microsoft world. If you're curious and want to dive headfirst into open source, Fedora Workstation is one of the best Linux distros to start with.

If Windows is backed by Microsoft, Fedora Workstation It is sponsored by Red Hat, the enterprise open source giant. This means that, as an operating system, It is constantly updated and maintains a close connection with new technologies. Naturally, it has excellent support for development tools like Docker, Podman, and Flatpat, and a strong focus on security by default.

Elementary OS – Strong macOS flavor

Want to make the jump from Windows, but Apple's operating system isn't among your options? Then you can give macOS a try by installing Elementary OS, one of the best Linux distros in terms of ease of use. This distribution is based on Ubuntu, but uses its own desktop environment, called Pantheon. Although it resembles macOS more than Windows, offers a smooth and consistent experience which is also convenient for those leaving the Microsoft ecosystem.

Elementary OS has been around for over 10 years, and during that time it has received significant aesthetic, stability, and security improvements. It has a minimalist yet modern interface, with a menu bar reminiscent of the macOS Dock and native applications such as Mail, Calendar, Music, and Files. From your software store, or AppCenter, you can install free and paid applications, all reviewed and without bloatware.

Anduin OS – Windows 11, is that you?

Finally, when we talk about the best Linux distros if you come from the Microsoft ecosystem, we cannot ignore the impact that it has had Anduin OSFresh out of the oven, This distro based on Ubuntu and Debian was released in 2025 as an alternative to Windows 11.. It's not just a visual theme: its GNOME 48 environment is deeply modified to offer very familiar menus, shortcuts, and workflows.

As a user of this Linux distro, I can say that Anduin OS has surprised me with its fluidity and stability. It offers various customization options and is compatible with the extensive repository of Linux applications. It has recently gained significant popularity and has climbed the ranks on sites like DistroWatch, where it has a good rating and very positive comments.