A wave of innovation in the Linux desktop world has consistently aimed to lower the barriers for users considering a shift away from Microsoft’s ecosystem, but rarely has this mission been embodied so thoroughly as with AnduinOS. Built upon the solid foundation of Ubuntu, AnduinOS is a Linux distribution that intentionally mimics Windows 11's visual identity and user interactions, extending beyond superficial theming to deliver an experience that is uncannily familiar to Windows users. Over the course of a weekend’s hands-on trial, the distinctions between imitation and genuine usability quickly became the central theme, raising important questions about authenticity, adaptability, and the paths forward for both Windows converts and seasoned Linux enthusiasts.
The pursuit of making Linux approachable is not new. From the days of Lindows and Zorin OS to contemporary themes, developers have repeatedly tried to soften the learning curve for Windows switchers. What distinguishes AnduinOS, however, is its all-in philosophy: the illusion is not just skin-deep, but woven into every aspect of the user interface and basic workflow.
From the very first boot, AnduinOS envelops users in a desktop that speaks the visual language of Windows 11. The centered taskbar, familiar “Start” button, system tray, and even the design of file and system icons feel almost native to anyone acquainted with Microsoft’s flagship OS. AnduinOS leverages a heavily customized GNOME desktop—rounded corners, fluent-styled menus, and slick animations replicate the aesthetics with startling effectiveness.
This commitment to mimicry delivers a remarkable out-of-the-box experience. Unlike most Linux distros where tweaking and tuning are part of the rite of passage, here everything is already perfectly themed. There’s no need to hunt for icon packs or manually reconfigure the desktop. This turnkey approach strikes at the core of what makes an operating system accessible to newcomers: instant recognizability and comfort.
Default applications are wisely chosen: Dolphin for file management (a nod to KDE efficiency), Spectacle for screenshots, and a suite of tools that successfully echo the Windows experience in usability and shortcut consistency. The adoption of Discover as the standard software center, paired with Flatpak support, makes software installation straightforward for the uninitiated and power users alike.
One of the most impressive aspects is how rarely the user feels compelled to break the illusion. Consistent keyboard shortcuts, a polished notification area, and easily switchable light/dark modes contribute to a genuinely cohesive environment. Even subtle details—like the way menus animate or how icons reflect Windows’ design—sustain the fantasy.
The installation typically completes in under ten minutes on a modern SSD-based PC. Impressively, post-installation configuration is minimal: screen resolution, network connectivity, and keyboard layouts “just work.” Light and dark theme toggling is reliable and doesn’t break UI consistency—something that often plagues more ambitious desktop themes. AnduinOS recognizes dual-boot Windows setups and configures GRUB accordingly, allowing easy switching between operating systems at boot.
AnduinOS distinguishes itself from earlier imitators by not feeling “cheap” or hastily assembled. Where some theme-heavy distros have historically sacrificed functionality for appearance, AnduinOS finds a balance. It’s undeniably a Linux desktop, but one that persuades with charm instead of demanding endless patience.
However, those whose digital lives are tethered to proprietary applications or exotic hardware configurations may still find themselves reaching for their familiar Windows partition. No skin, however artfully applied, can fully substitute for deeply integrated features or seamless plug-and-play support.
For some, AnduinOS will remain a charming curiosity; for others, it may well become the on-ramp to a new computing journey, one that is both inviting and empowered by the flexibility of Linux. Its very existence underscores how much the Linux desktop has evolved, and how determined developers remain in making freedom, choice, and beauty accessible to everyone—sometimes, by simply wearing a very convincing disguise.
Source: xda-developers.com I spent a weekend with this Linux distro built to look like Windows 11, and it’s much closer than I thought it would be
The pursuit of making Linux approachable is not new. From the days of Lindows and Zorin OS to contemporary themes, developers have repeatedly tried to soften the learning curve for Windows switchers. What distinguishes AnduinOS, however, is its all-in philosophy: the illusion is not just skin-deep, but woven into every aspect of the user interface and basic workflow.From the very first boot, AnduinOS envelops users in a desktop that speaks the visual language of Windows 11. The centered taskbar, familiar “Start” button, system tray, and even the design of file and system icons feel almost native to anyone acquainted with Microsoft’s flagship OS. AnduinOS leverages a heavily customized GNOME desktop—rounded corners, fluent-styled menus, and slick animations replicate the aesthetics with startling effectiveness.
This commitment to mimicry delivers a remarkable out-of-the-box experience. Unlike most Linux distros where tweaking and tuning are part of the rite of passage, here everything is already perfectly themed. There’s no need to hunt for icon packs or manually reconfigure the desktop. This turnkey approach strikes at the core of what makes an operating system accessible to newcomers: instant recognizability and comfort.
Usability Beyond Surface Beauty
Performance and Everyday Use
Once initial impressions give way to daily routines, AnduinOS proves it’s not just a visual doppelgänger. The distribution is stable, responsive, and runs admirably even on modest hardware—thanks in large part to Ubuntu’s robust underpinnings and GNOME's mature optimization. Essential tasks such as web browsing, writing, streaming, and simple multimedia work present no stumbles or slowdowns. There’s evidence of careful curation here: the system is not weighed down with bloat, nor stripped so bare as to be inconvenient.Default applications are wisely chosen: Dolphin for file management (a nod to KDE efficiency), Spectacle for screenshots, and a suite of tools that successfully echo the Windows experience in usability and shortcut consistency. The adoption of Discover as the standard software center, paired with Flatpak support, makes software installation straightforward for the uninitiated and power users alike.
One of the most impressive aspects is how rarely the user feels compelled to break the illusion. Consistent keyboard shortcuts, a polished notification area, and easily switchable light/dark modes contribute to a genuinely cohesive environment. Even subtle details—like the way menus animate or how icons reflect Windows’ design—sustain the fantasy.
Integration and Theming Fidelity
That said, some cracks inevitably appear. Venture into deeper system settings or less commonly used utilities, and GNOME’s Linux roots become visible. Dialog boxes and configuration panels, while themed, still follow the structure and terminology of a Linux desktop. Unavoidably, some popups or utility apps revert to a more generic GTK look, briefly shattering the Windows mirage. Anyone who’s themed Linux before knows this is a perennial challenge and not easily remedied without enormous engineering effort.Installation Experience: Simple and Reassuring
Setting up AnduinOS is as frictionless as Ubuntu itself. The distribution employs the friendly Ubiquity installer, guiding users through region, language, disk partitioning, and user account creation with a clear and reassuring process. Both newcomers and Linux veterans will find little to surprise or confuse them.The installation typically completes in under ten minutes on a modern SSD-based PC. Impressively, post-installation configuration is minimal: screen resolution, network connectivity, and keyboard layouts “just work.” Light and dark theme toggling is reliable and doesn’t break UI consistency—something that often plagues more ambitious desktop themes. AnduinOS recognizes dual-boot Windows setups and configures GRUB accordingly, allowing easy switching between operating systems at boot.
Hardware and Compatibility Requirements
Hardware compatibility is robust, but not universal. AnduinOS currently supports only x86_64 architecture with ACPI compliance, and works with both UEFI and legacy BIOS firmware. ARM-based hardware is not supported—a limitation prospective users should be aware of. The developers recommend a 2GHz dual-core processor, 4GB of RAM, and 20GB of free disk space as minimums, making the system broadly accessible but not viable for legacy or ultra-low-end devices.Hidden Costs and Lingering Limitations
Where the Illusion Breaks
Despite the thorough theming, AnduinOS cannot entirely abolish its Linux DNA. Some Windows key combos—especially those tied to deep system integration—don’t always translate perfectly. Certain preinstalled and third-party apps may ignore theming conventions, presenting a jarring contrast to the otherwise unified desktop. While not devastating, these inconsistencies remind users that the resemblance is only skin deep.Software Compatibility Hurdles
Perhaps the most significant barrier for Windows migrants is the enduring issue of application compatibility. If your workflow relies on Windows-only software—such as specialized productivity apps, proprietary games, or industry-standard creative tools—AnduinOS cannot bridge that gap natively. Wine and virtual machines remain viable options for running select Windows programs, but their results are unpredictable and can add friction for less experienced users. This is a longstanding challenge for all desktop Linux distributions and remains unsolved in AnduinOS.Hardware Support and Peripheral Issues
Although most mainstream hardware works out of the box, the experience is not always seamless. Some features—like fingerprint readers or advanced touchpad gestures—may not be recognized due to limited driver support or the lagging pace of open-source hardware integration. Peripheral compatibility, while much improved over the years, can frustrate users accustomed to Windows’ near-universal plug-and-play reliability.Day-to-Day User Experience: Cohesion and Practicality
For casual computing needs, AnduinOS consistently hits its mark. The system’s stability, sensible defaults, and attractive visuals combine to create a daily-driver environment that is inviting rather than intimidating. The “Windows 11” look isn’t just a novelty here—it serves as a bridge, helping tentative users feel at home while quietly introducing them to Linux’s underlying philosophies.AnduinOS distinguishes itself from earlier imitators by not feeling “cheap” or hastily assembled. Where some theme-heavy distros have historically sacrificed functionality for appearance, AnduinOS finds a balance. It’s undeniably a Linux desktop, but one that persuades with charm instead of demanding endless patience.
Advantages for Switchers and Explorers
Lowered Learning Curve
For users considering the move away from Windows—perhaps due to licensing or privacy concerns—AnduinOS supplies a pathway that minimizes shocks. Familiar layouts, visual cues, and menu structures bring predictability, reducing the daunting sense of strangeness that many first-time Linux users encounter.Ease of Customization and Flexibility
More advanced users retain GNOME’s beloved flexibility under the hood. While the goal is clear consistency with Windows 11, AnduinOS does not lock down customization options. Power users can fine-tune themes, hotkeys, and system settings, or sidestep the Windows theme entirely if they so choose.Dual-Boot and Tinker-Friendly
The intelligent GRUB configuration ensures that Windows is only ever a reboot away. This dual-boot friendliness is a boon for anyone testing the waters, as it enables experimentation without forfeiting access to familiar workflows and critical Windows-only software.Inherent Risks and Underlying Realities
The Danger of Over-Promising
One persistent risk with projects like AnduinOS is raising user expectations too high. The illusion of Windows can make shortcomings—however minor—feel more jarring. Partial app compatibility, rare but possible hardware glitches, and the occasional break in theming risk undermining trust for those who expect perfection. Realistic marketing and robust user documentation are critical in setting clear expectations for the transition.Security and Maintenance Considerations
While Ubuntu’s foundations guarantee timely updates and vast community support, themed or heavily modified desktops can introduce an extra layer of maintenance complexity. Future changes in GNOME, Ubuntu base packages, or upstream code could break aspects of the carefully constructed illusion. The AnduinOS development team will need to remain vigilant with updates and patches to avoid frustrating interruptions for their user base.Fragmentation and Longevity
Themed Linux distributions often struggle with maintaining momentum over the long haul. If upstream changes in GNOME or Ubuntu outpace the project’s maintenance efforts, gaps may appear. Users seeking long-term stability should monitor the project’s update cadence and responsiveness to security advisories.Is AnduinOS the Future for Windows Migrants?
AnduinOS demonstrates that a Windows-like Linux experience no longer has to be superficial or plagued by half-measures. Its blend of aesthetic faithfulness and genuine usability sets it apart from earlier imitations and makes a compelling case for a new wave of switchers. For users whose needs are met by the default software offerings—or who are ready to embrace Linux alternatives—the transition is easier, more comfortable, and, frankly, more fun than it has ever been.However, those whose digital lives are tethered to proprietary applications or exotic hardware configurations may still find themselves reaching for their familiar Windows partition. No skin, however artfully applied, can fully substitute for deeply integrated features or seamless plug-and-play support.
Conclusion: A Convincing Disguise with Real Potential
AnduinOS is ultimately more than just a clever masquerade. It successfully bridges the gap between novelty and practicality, functioning as a capable daily-driver for a surprisingly broad swath of users. Its thoughtful implementation of the Windows 11 aesthetic doesn’t come at the expense of performance or usability. The result is a distribution that welcomes curious tinkerers, privacy advocates, and those ready to explore open-source computing—without asking them to abandon everything they find familiar.For some, AnduinOS will remain a charming curiosity; for others, it may well become the on-ramp to a new computing journey, one that is both inviting and empowered by the flexibility of Linux. Its very existence underscores how much the Linux desktop has evolved, and how determined developers remain in making freedom, choice, and beauty accessible to everyone—sometimes, by simply wearing a very convincing disguise.
Source: xda-developers.com I spent a weekend with this Linux distro built to look like Windows 11, and it’s much closer than I thought it would be