Switching from Windows to Linux: 7 Windows-like Distros for 2025

If Windows 10’s end-of-support deadline has you weighing alternatives, you’re not alone — and Linux is no longer the alien landscape it was a decade ago. ZDNET’s roundup of “Windows-like” Linux distributions highlights seven desktop-focused distros designed to flatten the learning curve for Windows users: KDE Neon, Linux Mint, Zorin OS, blendOS, AnduinOS, RefreshOS, and Bazzite. These distributions vary in base, desktop environment, package strategy, and target user (from casual productivity to gamers), but they share a single goal: make the switch from Windows to Linux as painless and familiar as possible. The article’s practical premise — that a Windows user can transition to Linux without giving up familiar workflows — reflects the broader migration conversation driven by the October 14, 2025 Windows 10 end-of-support deadline.

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Background / Overview​

Microsoft’s announced lifecycle for Windows 10 ends mainstream updates and support on October 14, 2025. That deadline is the practical impetus for many users to consider alternatives to buying new hardware or paying for extended support. Linux distributions offer free, actively maintained OS options that can extend the usable life of older PCs while removing telemetry and licensing costs — but migration still requires planning, testing, and realistic expectations about software compatibility. The urgency and guidance around migration have been widely discussed as part of the desktop ecosystem’s response to that date.
Linux no longer means “command-line only.” Several mainstream desktop environments (KDE Plasma, Cinnamon, GNOME variants, Deepin) provide Windows-like paradigms: taskbars, start menus, system trays, and straightforward settings panels. That makes it easier than ever for Windows users to feel at home immediately after installing or trying a distribution from a live USB. At the same time, package ecosystems (APT, DNF, Pacman), universal formats (Flatpak, Snap), and compatibility layers (Wine, Proton) are mature enough to cover large parts of everyday workflows and many games — but not everything. Testing remains essential.

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Quick guide: how to pick a Windows-like Linux distro​

• Start by identifying what you must keep: specific Windows apps, gaming titles, hardware peripherals, or enterprise tools.
• Test with a live USB before committing to installation.
• Prefer Ubuntu- or Debian-based distros for the broadest driver and package support if you want the easiest path.
• If gaming is critical, prioritize distributions with Steam/Proton and driver support.
• If privacy and immutability are concerns, evaluate immutable or container-friendly distros carefully.

This article summarizes the seven distros ZDNET recommends, digs into practical strengths and limitations, and gives migration steps and risk analysis so you can make an informed decision.

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1) KDE Neon — configurable, familiar, and polished​

What it is​

KDE Neon is a showcase distribution for the KDE Plasma desktop, built on a stable Ubuntu base. It’s designed to provide the latest Plasma experience while relying on Ubuntu’s hardware support and repositories. KDE Plasma is extremely configurable and can be themed to resemble classic Windows or modern Windows 10/11 layouts. For many Windows migrants, that adaptability makes KDE Neon a top pick.

Why it works for Windows users​

• The panel + start menu + system tray model is natural for Windows veterans.
• KDE’s settings panels and visual effects can be configured to match Windows 10’s behavior and keyboard shortcuts.
• Ubuntu base ensures wide driver support and easy access to mainstream applications.

Practical considerations​

• KDE’s abundance of options can overwhelm newcomers; stick to default layouts first.
• Plasma is feature-rich and may use more RAM than ultra-light alternatives, but it’s also highly responsive on modern hardware.

Who should choose it​

• Users who want a familiar layout with deep customization options.
• People who like tweaking their desktop or plan to use multiple desktops (e.g., Windows-like by day, macOS-like by night).

(Verification of KDE Plasma’s flexibility and Ubuntu heritage is available in multiple distro writeups and community guides.)

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2) Linux Mint (Cinnamon) — conservative, reliable, and comfortable​

What it is​

Linux Mint is an established, user-focused distribution based on Ubuntu LTS, shipping the Cinnamon desktop by default. Cinnamon intentionally follows a Windows-like paradigm: panel at the bottom, start-style menu, system tray, and traditional desktop metaphors. Mint’s objective is low friction for users switching from Windows.

Strengths​

• Out-of-the-box media and codec support — reduced post-install setup.
• Stable Ubuntu LTS base, good hardware compatibility.
• Strong community and clear, conservative development that favors reliability over radical UI changes.

Limitations​

• Looks may feel “old-school” compared to GNOME or modern KDE theming.
• Wine and Proton are not preinstalled; installing compatibility layers requires a small amount of additional setup.

Who should choose it​

• Users who want a no-surprises, familiar desktop with excellent documentation and community backup.
• Machines with modest hardware specs that benefit from a conservative design.

These traits are consistent across mainstream reviews and migration guides that recommend Linux Mint for Windows switchers.

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3) Zorin OS — Windows-style layouts and staged familiarity​

What it is​

Zorin OS is an Ubuntu-based distro specifically aimed at newcomers and Windows migrants. It ships multiple desktop layouts, including Windows-like options and, with the Pro edition, extra layouts that mimic Windows 11. Zorin’s “Appearance” tool makes switching UI layouts straightforward. Zorin’s core/responsive goals make it a popular pick for users moving from Windows.

Why Zorin stands out​

• Four Windows-like layouts in the free edition (and more in Pro) let users start with a familiar UI and then explore alternative workflows.
• Good out-of-the-box driver and multimedia support thanks to the Ubuntu base.

Caveats and pricing​

• Zorin OS Core is free; Pro sells additional layouts and extras. The exact price can vary over time and promotional offers — verify current pricing on official distro pages before purchase. Pricing and edition details reported in secondary writeups should be checked against the project’s official store for currency.

Who should choose it​

• Users who want the most Windows-like first impression and the option to evolve into different desktop paradigms later.

Multiple independent reviews and guides confirm Zorin’s Windows-friendly layout approach and Ubuntu foundation.

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4) blendOS — immutable design with multiple desktop choices​

What it is​

blendOS is a newer entry that emphasizes an immutable core (read-only system partitions for enhanced security and stability) while supporting multiple desktop environments (GNOME, KDE Plasma, Deepin, Cinnamon, and others). It combines an immutable OS model with flexible app install methods — apt, pacman, Flatpak, and its own “blend” tool — and optional Android app support. This hybrid approach aims to be both secure and user-friendly.

Strengths​

• Immutable architecture reduces the chance of system breakage from accidental changes.
• Multiple packaging/install paths give broad access to applications.
• Desktop choice lets Windows migrants pick the environment that most closely matches their expectations (KDE Plasma or Deepin recommended for Windows-style familiarity).

Risks and caveats​

• Immutable systems can be unfamiliar to users used to being able to change any file at will — some admin tasks are different and may require learning new workflows.
• blendOS’s multi-package approach is powerful but can be confusing; it’s more suitable for users who are comfortable exploring package managers or who want a more controlled environment.

blendOS’s design is frequently discussed in modern distro roundups as an example of secure-by-default desktop Linux, but newcomers should test it via live media and read the immutable model documentation first.

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5) AnduinOS — a modern GNOME spin that favors Windows 11 familiarity​

What it is​

AnduinOS is a newer distribution targeted at users wanting a Windows 11-like aesthetic built on Ubuntu with a heavily customized GNOME desktop. It intentionally recreates many visual elements of Windows 11 to reduce friction for new users, while leaning on Ubuntu for hardware support and package availability.

What to expect​

• A centered panel and rounded visual elements resembling Windows 11.
• A curated default application set chosen to replicate familiar workflows—browsing, office work, and multimedia are ready out of the box.
• Generally responsive performance on modern hardware owing to Ubuntu/ GNOME stability.

Practical notes​

• AnduinOS aims for recognizability, not deception — it doesn’t promise to run Windows binaries natively; for that you’ll still need compatibility layers (Wine) or virtual machines.
• Because AnduinOS is new compared with the stalwarts above, users should confirm release cadence and community support before committing to it as a primary OS.

Independent hands-on coverage of AnduinOS emphasizes the polished Windows-11-like UX and stable Ubuntu underpinnings. Test on a live USB to verify hardware compatibility for your machine.

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6) RefreshOS — Debian stability with a Windows-style minimal KDE​

What it is​

RefreshOS delivers a minimal KDE Plasma configuration that mirrors the traditional Windows desktop: panel, start menu, system tray, and a simple, elegant theme. It blends Debian stability with Ubuntu-friendly usability elements to provide a ready-to-use environment for new Linux users.

Why it’s useful​

• Ships with useful preinstalled apps (office suite, image tools, media player, mail client, etc.), allowing users to “hit the ground running.”
• Focuses on a classic, familiar workflow that makes day-to-day tasks intuitive.

Caveats​

• The developers chose not to include Snap or Flatpak by default. If you rely on proprietary packaged apps (Slack, Spotify, some vendor packages), you’ll need to install a universal package manager first.
• Debian/Ubuntu lineage provides solid support, but check the distro’s repository policy and release cadence if you need long-term support guarantees.

RefreshOS is an example of a distribution built specifically to make newcomers comfortable immediately after installation — but check the availability of your required proprietary apps and add Flatpak/Snap if needed.

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7) Bazzite — gaming-first distro built from a SteamOS lineage​

What it is​

Bazzite is a SteamOS-style distribution aimed primarily at gamers and streamers. It ships Steam preinstalled, includes enhancements for HDR and VRR, and applies kernel and scheduler tweaks to optimize game responsiveness. Built on a Fedora base with a KDE Plasma desktop, Bazzite tries to be both a gaming platform and a general-purpose desktop.

Gaming features​

• Steam preinstalled and configured for Proton/Steam Play.
• Kernel and CPU scheduler adjustments intended to improve responsiveness.
• HDR and VRR support and community-developed tools for streaming and overlays.

Productivity note​

• Bazzite can serve as a regular desktop as well as a gaming platform; KDE Plasma keeps the UI familiar for Windows users.
• Because it’s Fedora-based, it inherits Fedora’s faster update cadence and modern stacks — that’s a plus for performance but may mean more frequent updates than Ubuntu LTS-based options.

Gaming-focused distros have matured significantly thanks to Valve’s Proton and the Steam Deck ecosystem, but some titles with kernel-level anti-cheat may still not work. Always test your critical games before committing to a primary installation.

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Migration checklist — practical steps to switch from Windows to Linux​

• Back up everything first — user files, browser bookmarks, email archives, product keys. A verified external backup is essential.
• Make an inventory:
• Hardware: CPU, GPU, RAM, storage, Wi‑Fi adapter, printers/scanners.
• Software: list all essential Windows apps; note whether Linux equivalents exist or whether you need Wine/Proton/VM.
• Test with a live USB of 2–3 candidate distros (Zorin, Mint, KDE Neon, AnduinOS, RefreshOS, or Bazzite for gamers).
• Verify critical hardware (Wi‑Fi, display, audio, printer) in the live session.
• If you need Windows-only apps, plan for:
• Wine or Proton for individual apps/games.
• A Windows virtual machine for enterprise or legacy software (requires a Windows license).
• Decide on partitioning: dual-boot if you want a safety net, or replace Windows for a single-OS setup.
• Post-install:
• Enable automatic security updates.
• Install Flatpak/Snap if needed for third-party apps.
• Join the distro community forums for help on specific issues.

Multiple migration guides and community write-ups stress testing with a live USB and planning for app compatibility as the most important steps in a safe migration.

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Compatibility, gaming, and Windows apps: what works — and what doesn’t​

• Wine and Proton have made extraordinary progress; many Windows desktops apps and thousands of games run well on Linux. Proton+Steam has especially improved gaming support, but anti-cheat systems remain the main blocker for some multiplayer titles. If a specific game matters to you, consult compatibility databases and test in a live/VM environment.
• Productivity suites: LibreOffice, OnlyOffice, and cloud-based suites cover most office needs, but industry-specific Windows-only applications might still require a VM.
• Peripherals: Modern Linux kernels include drivers for a wide range of devices; check manufacturer support for specialized hardware (e.g., certain scanners or vendor-specific dongles). A live USB is the fastest way to verify.

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Security, lifecycle, and maintenance considerations​

• Linux distributions provide regular security updates at no licensing cost — but with freedom comes responsibility. Applying updates and understanding the maintenance model (rolling vs LTS) is the user’s job.
• Immutable distros (blendOS, Fedora Silverblue style) offer additional protection by limiting runtime changes to the base system, but they require learning container-based or layered update approaches. That trade-off is valuable for security-conscious users but can complicate certain admin tasks.
• For long-term stability, choose LTS-based distributions (Ubuntu LTS-derived distros, Linux Mint’s LTS base) when you want fewer disruptive changes; choose rolling/faster-release distros (Fedora-based, Arch-based) if you prefer newer stacks and are comfortable with more frequent updates.

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Critical analysis — strengths, blind spots, and risks​

Notable strengths​

• Familiar UIs are real and usable. Distros like Linux Mint, KDE Neon, Zorin, AnduinOS, and RefreshOS genuinely minimize UI friction for Windows migrants. That works because Linux desktop environments now intentionally implement familiar metaphors and because config tools let users adjust behaviors quickly.
• Gaming is viable for many users. Valve’s Proton and Steam’s Linux initiatives have pushed thousands of titles into playability on Linux; Steam preinstalled distros (like Bazzite) and SteamOS-style ecosystems are tailored to gamers.
• Cost and longevity. Linux can extend the life of older hardware and avoids the license/upgrade costs associated with moving to Windows 11 or buying new machines.

Potential risks and blind spots​

• App compatibility is not universal. Critical commercial Windows software may not have Linux equivalents or may require a VM. Enterprises and users with specialized apps must audit compatibility carefully.
• Anti-cheat and certain peripherals remain problematic. Multiplayer titles relying on kernel-level or vendor proprietary anti-cheat solutions may still be blocked on Linux. Some vendor-specific hardware drivers may lack full Linux support.
• Newer or smaller projects have uncertain lifecycles. AnduinOS, blendOS, RefreshOS, and Bazzite are promising but newer projects; verify community activity, release frequency, and update policies before relying on them for mission-critical work. Projects can change direction, be abandoned, or pivot their business models; always test and plan for contingencies.
• Immutable models change admin workflows. While immutability improves security and reliability, it requires learning new tooling and may complicate installing certain legacy applications. Test and read project docs.

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Practical recommendations by user type​

• Windows 10 users who want the least friction: Linux Mint (Cinnamon) or Zorin OS (Core). Both prioritize a familiar experience and low setup friction.
• Users who want deep customization and a modern, Windows-like desktop: KDE Neon or RefreshOS (KDE minimal). KDE’s configurability matches Windows paradigms closely.
• Gamers who want Steam-first experience: Bazzite (Steam preinstalled, Fedora base) or SteamOS-based spins. Test your titles for anti-cheat compatibility before switching.
• Security-minded or stability-focused users: LTS Ubuntu-based distros (Linux Mint or Zorin Core) or immutable blends (blendOS) if you accept a learning curve.

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Final checklist before you flip the switch​

• Verify your essential apps run under Linux (native, Wine/Proton, or VM).
• Test hardware support with a live USB.
• Back up and verify backups externally.
• Choose a distro aligned with your priorities (stability, familiarity, gaming).
• Prepare a rollback plan (create recovery media or keep a recovery partition).
  These steps reflect standard migration advice repeated across migration guides and expert writeups.

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Closing assessment​

ZDNET’s list — and the broader set of community guides — makes a persuasive case: for many Windows 10 users, a switch to Linux is realistic, cost-effective, and often liberating. The seven distros covered each lower the barrier from a slightly different angle: configurability (KDE Neon), familiarity (Linux Mint, Zorin), secure immutability (blendOS), aesthetic mimicry (AnduinOS), ready-to-use minimalism (RefreshOS), and gaming optimization (Bazzite). These options demonstrate the depth and maturity of contemporary desktop Linux.
However, the move is not risk-free. App compatibility, anti-cheat barriers, niche hardware drivers, and the lifecycle of newer projects are valid concerns. The soundest path is incremental: test, backup, pilot-critical apps, and migrate devices that are least risky first. When done with planning, Linux can be a practical, modern alternative to upgrading to Windows 11 or paying for extended support — and the seven distributions above are among the best places for Windows users to begin that journey.

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If you need an actionable migration plan tailored to your specific PC model, list of Windows applications, and preferred distro, follow the migration checklist above and test with live USBs for the two distros that most appeal to you. The community around each project is an excellent resource when you hit bumps during the transition.

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Source: ZDNET 7 most Windows-like Linux distros - if you're ready to ditch Microsoft