What is Linux Mint? Why do you use it?

Linux Mint is an operating system that provides a familiar Windows-like experience with more customization options. It offers user-friendly features and pre-installed open-source programs. By using the terminal, new options for efficiently utilizing the machine are added. If you're considering switching to Linux, one of the choices you might see is Linux Mint. However, what is it, and should you use it? Ad No ads found in the specified zone (native content).

What is Linux Mint?

Linux Mint can replace Windows on your machine but can also be used alongside it. It has a similar 'feel' to Windows but is very intuitive and allows for many settings to be customized according to your preferences.

Among the thriving Linux distributions, Linux Mint is based on the same architecture as Ubuntu, which is more widely known. She is maintained by a volunteer team led by Clement Lefebvre, a French computer scientist.

The focus of the Linux Mint team is on usability. Unlike other Linux distributions, Mint provides extensive assistance. This includes not being limited like Windows or macOS but also having some guardrails to help you get used to a new OS.

'Linux Mint vs Windows: What's Different?'

Mint can do almost anything you need. Installing Linux Mint is not as difficult as other distributions, but once installed on your machine, it requires minimal adjustment for migration from Windows.

For example, Mint operates through a graphical user interface (GUI), which is similar to Windows and has been since Microsoft rebuilt the experience before. (Mint actually uses multiple GUIs like Cinnamon, MATE, or XFCE.)

'Mint vs Ubuntu: Why Choose Linux Mint?'

Of course, if you're already planning to move from Windows, you might wonder why you should choose Linux Mint over Ubuntu. Here are reasons why you might prefer Linux Mint over the more popular and often called 'best' Linux distribution.

The debate between these two has been going on for years across many message boards, with great points made from both sides. While one side may have technical reasons to prioritize the other, I explain in my article 'Mint vs Ubuntu Comparison.' Overall, I consider this a personal choice.

For example, I switched mainly due to dissatisfaction with Windows. I was using Windows 8, which was the worst. Many changes were needed, and logging in required a Microsoft account. This did not respect my privacy.

However, I am used to Windows and do not want to completely relearn how to use a PC – using a mouse to operate a computer is often good.

I found Linux Mint to be the best choice because it felt like Windows. It had a start screen, programs could be found through menus, and many things could be done with a right-click. For example, customizing the desktop.

However, Ubuntu felt more like Mac, which I did not like before. It had a start screen, programs could be installed from GUI windows, and there was a helpful forum – Ubuntu also does. This is about preferences, so it's a different topic.

I used both previously but recommend Mint after choosing it. If anyone is considering switching, I recommend trying the same method. Both OSs are great and work very well without being corporate flipsides.