When a long time Windows user plans to switch to Linux, he/she generally wants a Linux like Windows 7 or a Linux like Windows XP.
This is understandable as switching to Linux from Windows could be overwhelming. If one gets a familiar interface, it becomes a bit easier to navigate. This is not just my opinion, people actually Google for Linux that looks like Windows.
Now the question arises, is there actually any Linux distro like Windows? And the answer is yes, there are Linux OS like Windows and we are going to see the best Windows look alike Linux distros.
Best Linux distributions that look like Windows
While many long time Linux users scorn at the idea of a Linux distribution imitating Windows’ looks.
But making the switch from Windows to Linux is not always easy for everyone. Partially because our computer experience is built on Windows and adapting to Linux sometimes needs a tad bit effort. And if looks could help, why not?
Anyway, Linux is all about sharing and caring. That’s why we at It’s FOSS, had a little team brainstorming session to bring the best and convenient distros for people coming from Windows. Let’s get right into it, shall we?
Chalet OS
If windows 10 made you switch to Linux and you’re a fan of the old Windows 7 looks and feel, Chalet OS is definitely for You.
See what I mean? Chalet OS offers the comfort and homely feel of Windows 7 coupled with the stability, customizability, security and other awesome features of Ubuntu 16.04.
Extensive care has been taken to make Chalet OS a native experience to Windows users. You can see the Window detailing has been customized to make it look exactly like Windows 7.
Chalet OS developers understand it can be a scary experience switching to Linux from Windows after spending our entire life on Windows machines. That’s why they have put in some home grown applications that make this switch so easy.
I know You might have made some heavy changes to the way your Windows PC looked and might want to have the same experience on Linux too.
That’s where the Chalet OS Style Changer comes in. With so many presets, you can set almost all the themes offered on Windows here too. That too with just a click. Want more customization? Hey, It’s Linux. You’re welcome.
Then there’s the Chalet OS “Start Point”. I suggest you have a look at this simple yet useful piece of work even if you’re a seasoned Linux user. For beginners, this software will launch your Linux experience light years ahead (I know, I know it’s a measure of distance and not time. But It just sticks brah ;p).
Want to know what Linux’s got in the gaming department. Check out Start Point. Or need some productivity stuff? Check out Start Point. Start Point is this guide to applications on Linux. It has got hand-picked titles which I can guaranty, will satisfy all your computing needs. It’s really a smart inclusion to Chalet OS.
Chalet OS might be created with the intention of helping out Windows refugees adjust to Linux, But it’s not at all a bridge. It is a complete Home and Business computing solution in itself.
If you are thinking of running a Window like Linux on your PC, Chalet OS would be my first choice to burn you a DVD or a Live USB. Go with it already!
Zorin OS
The thing about changing operating systems is, a lot of habits and muscle memory thingies we formed on our old OS really become a nuisance and become huge hindrances in our adjusting with the new OS. For example, hitting the F5 button repeatedly, checking for virus everytime we plug in a pen drive and… Okay okay, I’ll stop chiding Windows.
But you do agree it’s an issue. Is in not?
Enter Zorin OS. Ask any seasoned Linux user which OS a Windows refugee must get and most of the time it will be Zorin OS. Why ? Let’s see some reasons.
Zorin OS is a Linux distro like Windows in terms of the looks. The Start like application launcher, The bottom, icon indicator area, they’re all made to make the newcomers feel at home. There are lot other tools and applications that make Zorin OS a good choice.
Another thing I want to talk about is applications. Well, when I first had installed Ubuntu, I had tried to install Chrome by running the windows installer for the same (Without Wine too). Go ahead take a moment and have a laugh.
But I bet someone else can relate to me. The package managers can be a puzzle on Linux. That’s why Zorin comes with a very big list of day to day applications pre-installed. A good set of games, Rhythmbox music player, GIMP for image editing, OpenShot video editor, Firefox, LibreOffice and many more applications will allow you to do all the regular stuff without any further issue.
Zorin OS has Software Center and you can use it to get any software you want with just a few clicks. And if you want to install Windows software on Linux, Why the hell not? Zorin’s got Wine and PlayOnLinux up and running and they’ll handle windows software effortlessly.
Zorin OS has a tool called the “Zorin Look Changer” which is basically a theme changer and customizer on steroids. It lets You change basic looks, then chose presets like Windows 7, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Ubuntu, Mac and more. See for yourself.
Zorin OS has a lot more such customizations and useful tools, like the Zorin Web Browser Manger which will help inexperienced Linux freshers install their favorite browser quickly and easily.
Zorin OS developers have done quite a brainy work here. Even my teammates here at It’s FOSS suggest Zorin to all the Windows users who want to check Linux out. It is great.
Kubuntu
If you looked up the web or discussed about moving to Linux, you probably already came across Ubuntu. I do agree Ubuntu is a good place to start your Linux journey. But I’d suggest you try Kubuntu instead of the default Ubuntu that has Unity desktop environment.
Confused about various types of Ubuntu? Kubuntu is a flavor (a variant featuring some changes in per-installed software list as well as the default desktop environment) of Ubuntu. It runs the KDE which is polished and elegant.
Ubuntu has very different desktop layout than that of Windows. This combined with other differences can be a lot to take in. If you are running Kubuntu, at least the menu and indicators won’t be new and you’ll be more comfortable with the desktop.
The application launcher is very accessible and finding applications by navigating the sub menus is absolutely handy. Once you know what applications you will be using, you can invoke the search by pressing alt+spacebar. Start to type in the application name and the matching cases will drop down. You can easily pick the application you want.
You know, although not my favorite, I think KDE is the best desktop environment for Linux.
You’ll find Kubuntu a superior quality environment and although a learning curve is involved, I still suggest Kubuntu to newcomers as the curve is not really steep and it won’t be long before you get a hang of things.
If I was to suggest a flavor of Ubuntu to a Windows user, it’ll be Kubuntu hands down. A Linux OS like Windows and an official flavor of Ubuntu, there is nothing more to ask for.
Linux Mint
Linux Mint, as many of you might know, is one of the heavyweights of Desktop Linux world. You will find Linux Mint in almost all the top Linux Distros list.
You might be wondering what it’s doing in this article. Well, It’s here because of its simplicity. Its desktop environment, Cinnamon is similar to Windows 7 and is one of the most adored desktop environments. That style just rocks whether on Windows or on Linux.
If you are terribly addicted to working on a Windows machine (nobody said that was a bad thing), your productivity will not hamper at all on Linux Mint.
Why, you ask? The Linux Mint menu is located in the same position as the Windows start so when you move the cursor to the bottom right just like you did on Windows, You won’t be disappointed. LM has “activate on hover” for Menu. So that’s a bonus. The applications are arranged under categories so finding applications in a new OS won’t be an issue.
The Software Manager is a minimalistic and simple tool for finding and downloading additional software on Linux Mint. Since Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu, you’ll find a very large number of applications for all your computing needs. A simple browse and click will get you anything you need.
Gaming on Linux is a major factor that prevents ‘the switch’. I agree gaming is not the same on Linux as it is on Windows. But we are definitely not in the stone age of gaming. Check out this list of Top 10 games for Linux.
Steam also supports Linux. It more than supports Linux. Steam recommends Linux. Steam brings the latest and the greatest of gaming titles to Linux. FYI Deus Ex: Mankind Divided will soon be available on Linux. Yay!
One thing about Linux Mint though. If you install it as a beginner, you can still continue to use it even after you feel you’ve gotten more acquainted with Linux. A lot of advanced Linux users use Linux Mint too. It’s the number One Linux distro on Distrowatch. It’s just that good.
Well, there you have it, people. These Windows like Linux distros will help you make the switch from Windows to Linux easier, especially if you are a new to Linux world. If you liked this, I recommend reading about the best Linux distributions for beginners.
Tell us which was Your “transition distro” and also some tips beginners might find useful. Do share this article and help someone find love with Linux.
I started with zorin os 9 after widows xp was no longer supported.
I even did some collegues switch to it.
Now I'm on linux mint 18.2 after having 18.1 (both cinamon) and I wont go to windows ever again.
Try BeeFree OS is inspired from Ubuntu, Windows 7 and Linux Mint. Install application offline using wizard.
Hi there, what about ReactOS? It is touted as the free Windows-like OS all this while.
ReactOS isnt linux
or is it?
ReactOS is not stable at all.
I started with the original Red-hat. It was very difficult and that was the reason to go back to windows. Later I started with Sabayon in yellow and brown, and I liked it. I could do all kind of things that was not possible in windows. And -are jou sure- there was -are jou sure- vista -are jou sure- I was sure! It became Fedora and I liked it until those tiles. After a few other distro's I landed on Xubuntu and never left that anymore. Sure!
Usually it's the other way round. People start with Ubuntu and then move to distros like SUSE:)
in windows my hard disk of 500gb i create 4 partitions C,D,E,F and use C for windows files and D for the software applications i had downloaded, E for storing my data, F for my other interests. In linux i get often confused about the names and number of partitions i can create. Most of the time i end up using two partitions with strange names. I have upgraded from 500gb to 1 TB hard disk. My desire is to keep 500gb for my windows and 500gb for linux distros. i wish to duel boot with windows and linux and in Linux partition i would like install at least some 3 different distros for each allotting 80gb for linux files and common parititons one for my downloads and other for special files - in all in Linux parition i would like to have totally 5 partitions. ( 80 + 80 + 80 + 120 + 120 ) In all the 1TB hard disc should have 9 partitions - four for windows and 5 for linux. How to go about it. I would love install mint, debian, centoz. I do have gparted and have used to create parition for windows and sometimes Linux ( swap, root, home) I had tried the Grub and corrupted my windows files when i wished to delete Linux partition and remove the grub. I belive with some guidance i can try again. I have all how to install vidoes from youtube about l linux distros and have ISOs of all flavours and desktop environments. Just for information i am 69, basically from accounts background (manual)Any one to guide?
Here is the answer to all your problems Virtual box . once u learn it ,30 minuets to learn u can download all os and never need to worry about partition if u have any problems u can reach me on mail search me on face book miresh shah
Hello Sir, it's good to know you're interested in trying out Linux again. I'd suggest you first install Windows. After Windows installation, you can install Linux and not vice versa. And you can access the windows drives from Linux OS but not Linux partitions from windows. And also make the 120+120 partitions in ntfs so that you can access them from all your OSs. Any Linux distro will be suited for accounting. Try the GNU Khata accounting software once you install Linux. About the drive confusion, give them a label using gparted. Hope you have a good time with Linux.
I have a win 10 pre-installed laptop and want to dual boot Ubuntu on it. I want to repartition it in such way that only 200gb of my 1tb storage is alloted to windows and else is given to Ubuntu. It would be really helpfull of someone to help me through the repartition process
always backup your data through windows back up (full image back up),then go to partition manager and make a partition as per ur needs . then install ubuntu. I suggest 100 gb max given to one os . rest leaves as normal hd space. try virtual box , free and easy
I live in Southeast Texas and I really wanted to switch from Ubuntu to Linux Mint. Last time that I gave it serious effort was several months ago. What has killed the transition for me are that there are no good mirrors for downloads and updates in my geographical reason. I believe it was the website which told me to use a mirror as it will be faster than the main site and to reduce traffic on the main site, but every single mirror available to me that I tried (most of them!) was slower than the main site (determined by download speed and pinging the mirror site manually). So it completely killed off my transition to Linux Mint. Hopefully in the future, this will not be the case. And I have never been an KDE person, even though it's beautiful (but the last time I used or saw KDE was years ago). Currently, I am happy with Unity though I may try KDE again.
I meant to type region but I was not paying attention.
Another one here who went from Ubuntu to Mint. I kept 10.4 way past support date because of Unity - started with Mint Mate because it still used Gnome 2, now on Mint 18 w/ Cinnamon. No serious complaints, I rarely game, and love LibreOffice (have used it since the fork from OpenOffice). I have a work-supplied MacBook Pro that has to use OS X because of company policy, but I was allowed to put LO on that too, and use it much more than i use MS Office for Mac.
I've been using Ubuntu mate for a long time and I really enjoy it, a comfortable experience with lots of customizes on the UI.
WOW, i find this post extremely ridiculous, do people not do their homework before actually reviewing and posting articles ? All of those distro's except chalet looks nothing like windows and chalet is SO outdated ...
want to see a real windows look alike ? check here :
ChaletOS "outdated"?
If going from position no. 150 to no.39 in about 3 months is a sign that it is an "outdated" distro, then it would be safe to deduce that there are a bunch of Linux users who like the retro style.
Bro, Chalet is "outdated"? How? It's based on Ubuntu 16.04. Did Ubuntu launch the 20.04 that we are ignorant of? And I don't think anybody would agree with you saying Zorin OS doesn't look like Windows. Even though it IS in the eye of the individual.
I've been 3 years with Linux Mint on a dual boot with Windows 7 but still cannot make the transition to full time use of Linux. The reason is that for several years I've been running paperless and cannot find a way to get the multifunction device to scan documents ... despite using the manufacturer's drivers designated for the make and model of MF device I use. Neither can I find any replacement devices that are guaranteed to work with Linux. For me, this is a major obstacle!
apt-get install simple-scan
I don't like Ubuntu and Mint because of Canonicals policy. But I like KDE, because you can widely change the look of the desktop, if you want to the look of windows. The best distribution I found, which uses KDE and the sources of Debian, is "SolydK"!
I started with Cinnamon, I am now very happy using Mint. It does everything I want it to do.
There are 2 major issues I've had with Linux distributions, as a new convert.
1. UEFI. Some distros still don't like to install on a Windows 7/8 UEFI computer. As a nubie I haven't the skills to sort out a non-running partial install. Especially when I want a dual boot system.
2. WiFi. Again some distros don't recognise my WiFi dongle, even on the live version.
I suppose the 3rd issue I have had to deal with is disk partitioning. This is a knowledge issue caused by the differences between Microsoft and Linux naming conventions and I'm getting better.
One thing I have noticed is that most Linux distros are much better at rendering on my 19 inch H-P screen out of the box than Native Windows. You gotta install Windows and then look for a driver update, often manually. Linux distros generally do that automatically.
I agree with many others that it does not need to look like windows for Windows converts. What it does need to do is work out of the box.
I live in public housing (mostly seniors and disabled). Recently they have had courses where they teach computer fundamentals and the end of which one gets a decent desktop setup. Nice. The course is taught, for some odd reason, on laptops running Windows 7 but the rigs that you get all run standard Ubuntu. And guess what? No one seems to have any problems with the transistion :) I am almost positive that the reason is simply that once most of these people are given a browser they are used to, they are pretty much good to go.
Yes true most use the windows 7 because they knew the computer came with that. The senior citizens use computer mainly for email, browze web. once they have the same browser like firefox, crome, etc., they must be feeling relaxed and enjoy using the linux and it makes no difference.