Windows-like Linux distros to try for a familiar desktop.

The article lists five Linux distributions—Q4OS, Zorin OS, Linux Mint, Linux Lite, and Kubuntu—that aim to deliver Windows-like interfaces and vary in system requirements, customization, and release cadence.

Some Linux distributions aim to provide a Windows-like desktop to ease the transition from Windows. This article describes five such distros and what they offer. It highlights desktop environments, hardware suitability, and how closely each mimics a Windows layout. The coverage is intended to show options across lightweight setups and more customizable, feature-rich systems. Key details: - Q4OS: A Debian-based distro offering KDE Plasma and the lightweight Trinity desktop, with a dual-desktop option and a Windows-style installer; Trinity can run on very low-spec hardware while Plasma needs more resources. - Zorin OS: Based on Ubuntu LTS, it recreates familiar Windows layouts via the Zorin Appearance app, includes Wine/PlayOnLinux for Windows app support, and offers a paid Pro edition with extra styles and features. - Linux Mint: Offers Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce editions; designed to work out of the box with preinstalled apps and codecs, uses Flatpaks instead of Snaps, and is based on Ubuntu LTS releases. - Linux Lite: Built on Ubuntu LTS with the Xfce desktop, presented for moderately old hardware (reported minimums include a 1.5 GHz CPU and 1 GB RAM) and bundled with common apps like LibreOffice, GIMP, and VLC. - Kubuntu: An official Ubuntu flavor that uses KDE Plasma, receives releases every six months along with Ubuntu, and gives users access to both LTS and non-LTS release options. Summary: These five distributions provide Windows-like interfaces across a spectrum from very lightweight setups to full-featured, highly customizable desktops. They vary in base systems, bundled software, and update cadence, which affects suitability for older hardware or users seeking newer features. Undetermined at this time.