As the sunset date for Windows 10 looms on the horizon, the reality facing millions of PC users is growing ever more pressing: after October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially pull the plug on support, updates, and most importantly, security patches for the world’s most popular desktop operating system. For the owners of aging hardware—especially laptops released between 2015 and 2019—the message from Microsoft is clear: upgrade to Windows 11, or risk being left vulnerable. But with Windows 11’s strict system requirements, including TPM 2.0, UEFI Secure Boot, and far steeper demands on RAM and storage, many still-capable machines are simply not given a seat at the next-gen OS table.
Does this mean it’s time to consign your reliable workhorse to the tech scrapyard, dooming it to landfill? Absolutely not. As proprietary operating systems move toward more aggressive hardware obsolescence, the open source world continues to offer viable lifelines for older PCs. For those of us committed to digital sustainability, Linux isn’t just a fallback—it’s arguably a superior way forward.
The specter of Windows 10’s end-of-life (EOL) isn’t just about the loss of feature updates. The far more serious issue is the cessation of security updates. Without these, vulnerabilities will remain unpatched, exposing users to new threats. For context, the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and other authorities strongly recommend against using unsupported versions of operating systems, given the severe risks posed by unaddressed exploits or malware.
But while Microsoft is keen to move users to Windows 11, it’s not a free-for-all upgrade. Here are the official minimum requirements for Windows 11, according to Microsoft’s documentation:
In real-world usage, these specs barely get the OS running, let alone deliver a good experience. For productive daily use—think dozens of browser tabs, office work, light creative apps—reputable sources point to at least 8-16GB of RAM, an SSD, and a recent multi-core CPU.
But what if your laptop, like the Lenovo ThinkPad X390 described here, falls short—lacking, for example, TPM 2.0 or UEFI Secure Boot? Should it really be relegated to the trash heap? This is where Linux becomes not just a viable alternative, but a breath of new life for older but still serviceable machines.
To evaluate this, I put three less-often-hyped but increasingly popular Linux distros through their paces: CachyOS, Linux Mint, and Zorin OS. The test bed? A six-year-old Lenovo X390—a machine that’s unlikely to enjoy official Windows 11 support without risky workarounds.
Strengths:
Strengths:
Strengths:
But there’s a caveat. Linux isn’t a panacea for every use case. If your work depends on industry-specific Windows-only software, or you’re locked into an all-Microsoft workflow (with enterprise device management and bespoke integrations), dual-booting or using a virtualized Windows instance may be necessary. Likewise, while gaming on Linux has made huge strides with Steam Proton and Lutris, compatibility is still not 100%—especially for games with intrusive anti-cheat mechanisms.
For the vast majority of home users—and especially students, writers, web workers, and developers—the Linux desktop now offers an interface and feature set as straightforward as Windows, with greater control over updates, privacy, and performance.
With a little preparation, some USB juggling, and a willingness to explore, your “ageing” laptop can enjoy a new chapter—secured and productive, far from the landfill. As mass hardware obsolescence accelerates, the sustainable, secure, and cost-effective path is not just possible—it’s already here.
Source: Tom's Hardware Before Windows 10 goes EOL, I'm testing three alternative Linux distros to save my 6-year-old laptop from the landfill
Does this mean it’s time to consign your reliable workhorse to the tech scrapyard, dooming it to landfill? Absolutely not. As proprietary operating systems move toward more aggressive hardware obsolescence, the open source world continues to offer viable lifelines for older PCs. For those of us committed to digital sustainability, Linux isn’t just a fallback—it’s arguably a superior way forward.
Why Consider Linux? The End of Windows 10 Support and Its Consequences
The specter of Windows 10’s end-of-life (EOL) isn’t just about the loss of feature updates. The far more serious issue is the cessation of security updates. Without these, vulnerabilities will remain unpatched, exposing users to new threats. For context, the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and other authorities strongly recommend against using unsupported versions of operating systems, given the severe risks posed by unaddressed exploits or malware.But while Microsoft is keen to move users to Windows 11, it’s not a free-for-all upgrade. Here are the official minimum requirements for Windows 11, according to Microsoft’s documentation:
| Requirement | Minimum Spec |
|---|---|
| Processor | 1GHz or faster with 2+ cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or SoC |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage | 64GB |
| UEFI, Secure Boot capable | Yes |
| TPM version | 2.0 |
| GPU | DirectX 12 compatible |
| Display | 720p or higher |
But what if your laptop, like the Lenovo ThinkPad X390 described here, falls short—lacking, for example, TPM 2.0 or UEFI Secure Boot? Should it really be relegated to the trash heap? This is where Linux becomes not just a viable alternative, but a breath of new life for older but still serviceable machines.
The Case for Linux on Older Laptops
Linux has a well-deserved reputation for efficiency and adaptability. Unlike the Windows ecosystem, which increasingly enforces hardware obsolescence, Linux distributions (distros) can be tailored to run on everything from modern powerhouses to humble decade-old laptops. But not all Linux flavors are created equal when it comes to user experience for ex-Windows users. Ease of installation, hardware compatibility, and the availability of familiar applications matter immensely for a smooth transition.To evaluate this, I put three less-often-hyped but increasingly popular Linux distros through their paces: CachyOS, Linux Mint, and Zorin OS. The test bed? A six-year-old Lenovo X390—a machine that’s unlikely to enjoy official Windows 11 support without risky workarounds.
The Contenders: Alternative Linux Distros Worth Testing
CachyOS: Speed and Modernity from the Arch Family
CachyOS bills itself as an Arch Linux-based distro designed for “lightning-fast speeds and stability.” Unlike vanilla Arch, which is famously do-it-yourself, CachyOS makes installation accessible with GUI-based tools, pre-configured kernels optimized for responsiveness, and up-to-date hardware drivers.Strengths:
- Super-efficient; boots and runs fast on modest hardware.
- Rolling release model ensures the latest software versions.
- Direct access to the Arch User Repository (AUR), providing almost any open-source app imaginable.
- The rolling release approach, while great for staying up to date, carries a (small) risk of system breakage after updates.
- While far friendlier than stock Arch, it still assumes a bit more technical comfort than most Ubuntu derivatives.
- Community support is smaller compared to mainstream distros like Ubuntu or Fedora, so troubleshooting may take more searching.
Linux Mint: The Ubuntu Alternative with Familiarity at Its Heart
Frequently named as the best desktop Linux for beginners (especially ex-Windows users), Linux Mint offers a compelling blend of usability and power. Based on Ubuntu (or Debian, if you prefer), it ships with a choice of desktop environments—including its flagship, Cinnamon—which feels instantly familiar to anyone used to Windows 7 or 10.Strengths:
- Polished, beginner-friendly Cinnamon desktop mimics the Windows workflow well.
- Long-Term Support (LTS) roots make it stable and reliable.
- Superb driver and hardware support, with a massive user community.
- Most tasks can be handled via GUI—no command-line needed for ordinary use.
- Based on Ubuntu LTS, so core packages can lag behind those of rolling-release distros or even newer Ubuntu mainline.
- Some pre-installed apps may feel redundant or lack the refinement of their Windows/Mac counterparts.
Zorin OS: Windows Familiarity Turned Up to Eleven
Positioning itself as “the alternative to Windows and macOS,” Zorin OS is clearly designed for new Linux converts. Based on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, Zorin OS boasts an interface so familiar that even staunch Windows users may forget they’ve left Microsoft’s garden. Out of the box, Zorin OS comes with a well-curated collection of software and the promise that, on hardware up to 15 years old, everything should work.Strengths:
- Zorin Appearance tool lets you mimic the look of Windows 10, 11, or even macOS in a few clicks.
- Robust hardware compatibility.
- All mainstream software—Chrome, Slack, Zoom, GIMP, Inkscape—installable with minimal fuss.
- The free “Core” version is excellent, but “Pro” (with more layouts, customer support, and business tools) is a paid upgrade.
- Based on an older Ubuntu LTS (22.04 as of writing), meaning some packages will not be the latest.
- Not as lightweight as some minimalist Linux spins.
Hands-on Testing: Installation, Compatibility, and Usability
How well do these distros deliver on their promises, especially for erstwhile Windows 10 users facing imminent EOL? The testing process was broken down into critical criteria:1. Ease of Installation: USB Creation and Setup
Creating the Install USB
All three distros were downloaded and written to a USB stick using the free Rufus software on Windows. Each image booted fine on the Lenovo X390, with clear instructions for UEFI/Legacy boot toggles.Installation Experience
- CachyOS: The graphical installer was surprisingly straightforward, reminiscent of other user-friendly Linux distros. Partitioning, user creation, and Wi-Fi setup all offered GUI options. Advanced customizations were available, but the defaults worked well for most.
- Linux Mint: True to its reputation, installation was seamless. The friendly Mint Installer detected hardware cleanly, and dual-booting (with the old Windows 10 install) required just a few clicks.
- Zorin OS: Mirroring Ubuntu’s famed installer, Zorin OS made things simple. The only hiccup was a slightly longer install time owing to pre-loaded apps and language packs. The ability to encrypt the home folder was a nice security touch.
2. Hardware Compatibility: Do the Essentials Work?
This is often the Achilles’ heel for Linux on laptops, especially Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters that rely on proprietary drivers.- CachyOS: Most hardware on the X390 (including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, webcam, sound, and function keys) worked out of the box. Graphics acceleration and high-DPI scaling were recognized accurately. The only manual step was downloading a proprietary Broadcom driver for Wi-Fi, handled via a single command-line prompt.
- Linux Mint: Exceptional hardware support. The driver manager tool flagged and offered to enable a proprietary fingerprint reader driver, after which everything functioned seamlessly. All peripheral toggles (brightness, volume, camera) were mapped correctly.
- Zorin OS: Hardware detection matched Mint’s, with everything “just working.” Zorin’s bundled printer setup and automatic display scaling were especially impressive.
3. Ease of Use: Life without the Terminal
For a Windows convert, the prospect of the Linux terminal can be daunting. But how necessary is it day-to-day?- CachyOS: Most functions were accessible via GUI, thanks to the KDE Plasma desktop. However, some advanced tweaks (and AUR package installations) benefit from terminal familiarity. For those willing to learn, the graphical package manager (like Pamac) helps bridge the gap.
- Linux Mint: Virtually everything could be handled graphically: installing apps, managing drivers, updating the system. The Software Manager makes exploring and installing thousands of open-source and proprietary apps a snap.
- Zorin OS: Especially strong here. Its “Zorin Appearance” app, one of its flagship features, lets users toggle between familiar Windows and macOS layouts without needing to type a command. App installation feels exceptionally seamless.
4. Application Compatibility: Can Key Apps Be Installed?
For many users, the ability to run essential productivity and creative tools—like Google Chrome, Slack, GIMP, and Inkscape—will be the acid test.- Google Chrome: Available as a straightforward .deb or .rpm install across all three distros. For Arch-based CachyOS, Chrome can be installed via AUR or a downloaded package. Performance was consistent and snappy.
- Slack: Linux Mint and Zorin OS install Slack from the Software Manager. CachyOS users can install via AUR. All functioned without issue.
- GIMP & Inkscape: Both apps are included (or available to add) via the official repositories on all three distros.
- Other Essentials: LibreOffice comes pre-installed on Mint and Zorin OS; CachyOS offers it from the start or via a single install command. Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Spotify, and even Edge for Linux are easy to install.
Analytical Take: The Sustainability and Security Incentives
The environmental case for Linux adoption is stark. Each year, millions of functioning PCs end up as e-waste simply because software support is cut off. According to a 2023 report from The Global E-Waste Monitor, nearly 60 million metric tons of e-waste were generated worldwide last year, with less than 20% properly recycled. Extending a laptop’s useful life by transitioning to Linux directly counters this troubling trend.But there’s a caveat. Linux isn’t a panacea for every use case. If your work depends on industry-specific Windows-only software, or you’re locked into an all-Microsoft workflow (with enterprise device management and bespoke integrations), dual-booting or using a virtualized Windows instance may be necessary. Likewise, while gaming on Linux has made huge strides with Steam Proton and Lutris, compatibility is still not 100%—especially for games with intrusive anti-cheat mechanisms.
For the vast majority of home users—and especially students, writers, web workers, and developers—the Linux desktop now offers an interface and feature set as straightforward as Windows, with greater control over updates, privacy, and performance.
Risks and Drawbacks to Keep in Mind
- Learning Curve: While distros like Linux Mint and Zorin OS have flattened the curve, some Windows users may hit snags with unfamiliar folder structures, package management, or peripheral quirks. Community forums, however, are a wealth of support, and comprehensive documentation abounds.
- Peripheral and Software Compatibility: Exotic printers or hardware add-ons may still need manual drivers. Mainstream devices are almost always covered.
- Security Best Practices: With great power comes responsibility: Linux is arguably more secure out of the box than Windows, but users must still keep up with updates and adopt good digital hygiene.
Conclusion: The Path Forward for Post-Windows 10 Laptops
The official end of Windows 10 support shouldn’t spell the end for still-speedy six-year-old laptops. Far from being e-waste, these machines can be rejuvenated with modern, efficient, and user-friendly Linux distributions that excel at everyday tasks. For those ready to leap, Linux Mint and Zorin OS offer the smoothest landing, especially for Windows expatriates; CachyOS is a thrilling choice for users who crave bleeding-edge performance and are open to a little learning.With a little preparation, some USB juggling, and a willingness to explore, your “ageing” laptop can enjoy a new chapter—secured and productive, far from the landfill. As mass hardware obsolescence accelerates, the sustainable, secure, and cost-effective path is not just possible—it’s already here.
Source: Tom's Hardware Before Windows 10 goes EOL, I'm testing three alternative Linux distros to save my 6-year-old laptop from the landfill
