Linux Mint

Linux Mint is a free and easy to use operating system.

Have you ever wanted to try out Linux but you’re not really a techie? Are you sick of Windows constantly updating and trying to track everything you do online? Or maybe you’re just tired of how much Apple devices cost?

Whatever your reason for wanting to try out Linux, Mint can satisfy all your PC needs and then some.

Linux Mint is a special fork of Ubuntu built to be fast and easy to use for all people. Even if you’ve never used Linux or Unix before, you’ll be able to use this operating system. The GUI (graphic user interface, like your start bar and notification windows in Windows) will be very familiar to Windows users and works just like it did on both iOS and Microsoft devices.

One thing people should be aware of though is that Linux doesn’t always support all the same hardware that Windows and iOS do; you’ll want to check your system compatibility on the Linux Mint website to find out more.

Another thing to remember is that this build doesn’t contain any audio or video CODECs; you’ll be able to download them with an easy GUI installer right from the desktop after installation, though.

All things considered, Linux Mint is a solid operating system and alternative to Windows and iOS for many users. You won’t know until you give it a try, so pick up an install today and check it out.

Pros

• Perfect for Users New to Linux Even if you’ve been a lifelong user of Windows you’ll still be able to work with Linux Mint right out of the box!
• Plenty of Cool Features Built Right In You’ll have access to a variety of productivity suites, internet software, a pleasant dark GUI and everything else you’d expect to find on a desktop PC without any of the bloat.
• Now Supports Steam, Spotify, Dropbox and Others Improved GNOME support means you’ll have access to all your favorite apps on Linux Mint without having to install Windows or iOS.
• 100% Free The cost of a standard Windows installation can run well over $150 for a new computer, not to mention the cost of upgrades over the lifetime of the product – but Linux Mint will always be free.

Cons

• No CODECs Installed by Default But Mint comes with a GUI app that will download all of your audio and video CODECs for you – this might just be seen as an unnecessary extra step for some.
• Lacks Flash Support This is an issue across all Linux distributions, not unique to Linux Mint. Most websites use HTML5 now, so not being able to run flash shouldn’t be a problem for most users.
• Some Hardware May Not Be Supported Some hardware like keyboard, graphics cards, network cards, Wacom tablets, etc. may not be supported natively in Linux, so always make sure you back up your current operating system before switching to a new one.