In short
- Free, with no ads and a desktop similar to Windows.
- You can try it from a USB stick without installing anything.
- Not all Windows programs work: Office and Adobe need alternatives.
It’s for you if…
- You use your computer for browsing, office work, email and video.
- Your computer does not support Windows 11 or has become slow.
- You like the idea of a system with no ads or data collection.
Better pick something else if…
- You depend on Adobe, desktop Office or Windows-only professional software.
- You play games with anti-cheat systems that are incompatible with Linux.
From Windows to Linux Mint: equivalents
| Windows | Linux Mint |
|---|---|
| Start menu | Cinnamon menu |
| File Explorer | Nemo |
| Microsoft Store | Software Manager |
| Windows Update | Update Manager |
| Restore points | Timeshift |
| Microsoft Office | LibreOffice, included |
| Edge | Firefox, included |
| Games on Steam | Steam with Proton |
Step by step
Make a backup
Copy your documents, photos and passwords to an external drive. If you have BitLocker, note your recovery key or turn it off first: you will need it so as not to lose access.
Create the install USB
Download the Cinnamon edition from linuxmint.com and write it to a USB stick of at least 8 GB with Rufus or balenaEtcher. That stick will be erased.
Boot from the USB
Restart and open the boot menu, usually with F12, F2 or Esc depending on the brand. Choose the USB and Linux Mint will start without installing anything.
Test your computer
Check Wi-Fi, sound, display, printer and camera. If something fails, see whether there is a solution before installing.
Install it
Press Install Linux Mint. You can install it alongside Windows, choosing which system to boot when you turn on, or replace Windows completely. If in doubt, install alongside Windows.
Set it up
Open Update Manager and apply everything. Check Driver Manager, create a snapshot with Timeshift and install what you need from Software Manager.
Files and formats
Your personal files work unchanged: PDFs, photos, videos, music and Office documents, which open in LibreOffice. .exe programs do not install directly. Some work with Wine or Bottles, with no guarantees. Linux Mint can read Windows drives, so you can reach your files if you install both.
What you won’t find
- Adobe, desktop Office and much professional software have no Linux version.
- Games with incompatible anti-cheat do not work.
- Some recent or unusual hardware may need adjustments.
Tips
- Before switching, use the alternatives you will have on Linux, such as LibreOffice or Thunderbird, on Windows. That makes the jump smaller.
- Check your games on ProtonDB and your peripherals on the manufacturer’s website.
- With a dual boot, Windows may change the system clock or boot order after an update: do not panic, and keep this in mind.
Frequently asked questions
Can I try Linux Mint without installing it?
Yes. From the USB stick it runs without touching your disk, although it is a little slower than when installed.
Will I lose Windows if I install it?
No, if you choose to install it alongside Windows. Even so, make a backup before you start.
Do I need an antivirus?
What matters most is keeping the system updated and installing programs from Software Manager. An antivirus is not usually necessary for home use.
Independent: we have no commercial relationship, sponsorship or affiliation with Windows or with these alternatives, and nobody pays us to recommend them. Links go to their official websites and are not affiliate links; the site is funded only by Google AdSense ads, which don't influence the selection. Learn more.