Why I Transitioned from Windows 11 to Linux—Discover the Best Distro for Beginners

Transitioning from Windows to Linux can initially seem intimidating, but selecting the right distribution can simplify the process. Among the numerous options available, Linux Mint stands out as the ideal choice for many users.

7 Superior Performance and Battery Efficiency

One of the most immediate advantages you’ll notice after switching to Linux Mint is a remarkable enhancement in system performance. In nearly all scenarios, Linux Mint operates quicker than Windows, primarily because it places significantly less strain on your hardware. This efficiency allows your system to devote more resources to demanding applications, leading to an overall improvement in performance.

Linux Mint's System Monitor and Windows' Taskbar

In addition to performance gains, Linux Mint also contributes to better battery longevity. Although the increase in battery life can vary based on the age and capacity of your device’s battery, many users still report favorable results. It is worth noting that, in certain cases—particularly with older or malfunctioning batteries—Windows may outperform Linux Mint in terms of battery efficiency due to its adeptness at managing power-consuming features.

However, relying on Windows to maximize battery life often results in a noticeable decline in performance. For instance, if you utilize a Windows 11 laptop in battery-saving mode, you’ll experience a sluggish interface. Conversely, Linux Mint manages power utilization more effectively, ensuring your system remains responsive while enhancing battery longevity. Even if the improvement in battery performance isn’t pronounced compared to Windows, the consistent performance enhancement is a compelling trade-off.

6 Familiar User Interface

One significant hurdle for users transitioning from Windows to Linux is the unfamiliarity of alternative interfaces. While many Linux distributions boast user-friendly designs, it often takes time to adjust to their layouts. Fortunately, Linux Mint mitigates this challenge by providing a desktop interface that mirrors Windows closely.

Linux Mint desktop with a calendar app and a file browser open

While it’s not an exact replica, Linux Mint offers familiar elements such as a taskbar, start menu, system tray, and easily navigable icons. Basic functions like window management, file operations, and taking screenshots closely resemble their Windows counterparts, making the learning curve significantly less steep for new users. The interface is not only intuitive and modern but also highly customizable, allowing users to tailor it to their preferences as familiarity grows.

5 Enhanced System Utilities

A primary reason why Windows may feel sluggish at times is the excessive bloatware often pre-installed. While tools like the Windows 11 Debloater exist to remedy this, the initial setup process in Windows can be laborious.

In contrast, Linux Mint offers an extensive suite of pre-installed utilities that allow users to hit the ground running post-installation. There’s no need to seek out essential tools or codecs—everything is available from the outset. Furthermore, the Software Manager and Update Manager surpass their Windows equivalents, such as the Microsoft Store and Windows Update, in both functionality and user experience.

Linux Mint’s Software Manager facilitates the discovery, installation, and management of compatible software from a single interface, complete with categorized listings and user reviews. Such functional features position Linux Mint as a model for system utilities that Windows would do well to adopt. Additionally, the Driver Manager for hardware installations is more accessible than Windows’ Device Manager. Users also benefit from Warpinator, a local file-sharing tool reminiscent of AirDrop.

4 Increased Software Compatibility

For some time, the lack of software options and gaming experiences has posed challenges for Linux users. However, with Steam’s adoption of Proton—an innovative compatibility layer for running Windows games on Linux—this issue is gradually diminishing. Users can now install Steam via the Software Manager, expanding their gaming horizons.

Keep in mind that this remains an emulation layer, so performance might not match native Windows experiences. Yet, depending on your hardware specifications, playing AAA titles with near-native performance may be achievable.

While gaming on Linux can be a mixed experience, application availability is decidedly more favorable. There are plenty of alternative tools to well-known programs like Photoshop, Lightroom, and Microsoft Office. Furthermore, with Wine available to emulate Windows applications on Linux, the landscape of software compatibility has seen significant improvements.

3 Lightweight Hardware Requirements

Linux is an excellent option for rejuvenating aging laptops, thanks to its minimal hardware needs. Linux Mint requires just 2GB of RAM (4GB is recommended), 20GB of disk space (with 100GB preferred), and a display resolution of 1024×768—meaning most operational PCs can run it effectively.

In contrast, Windows necessitates at least 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, UEFI Secure Boot support, TPM 2.0, and a minimum display resolution of 720p. Such stringent requirements often prevent older PCs from supporting Windows 11, even when they are technically capable.

As systems approach minimum specifications, their performance declines. However, Windows typically struggles more than Linux Mint when operating near its minimum thresholds, promising a smoother user experience for older machines when using Linux.

2 Reliable System Updates

Windows Updates have long been a source of frustration, largely due to their unpredictability and adverse effects on system stability. In contrast, Linux Mint leverages Ubuntu’s Long-Term Support (LTS) framework, ensuring a steady stream of updates and security patches without the typical bugs that can plague Windows updates.

Linux Mint’s Update Manager works synergistically with Timeshift, a built-in utility that routinely creates system snapshots, a significant upgrade to Windows’ System Restore. This functionality enhances stability by allowing users to recover easily should an update malfunction and makes scheduling updates more manageable.

1 Enhanced Privacy and Security

The most significant difference between Windows and Linux Mint lies in the latter’s superior focus on user privacy and security.

For starters, Linux Mint doesn’t incorporate telemetry data collection by default, unlike Windows and macOS, which often gather extensive user data in the background. With Linux Mint, users can enjoy a heightened level of privacy without the worry of built-in tracking.

Moreover, as an open-source platform, Linux Mint’s code undergoes constant scrutiny by security professionals, allowing vulnerabilities to be identified and addressed swiftly. While users may not personally audit the code, the transparency of open-source software enhances security on a broader scale.

sdecoret /Shutterstock / Linux

From a security standpoint, Linux Mint comes equipped with an array of built-in tools, such as ClamAV (an open-source antivirus solution) and AppArmor, which restrict application permissions. Furthermore, installations from the Software Manager are exclusively drawn from official repositories, ensuring that users only download verified software.

Although switching operating systems can be a challenging endeavor, the increasing hardware demands, AI burdens, and persistent bugs associated with Windows 11 make Linux Mint a compelling alternative for users looking for a smoother and more efficient computing experience.

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