I’ve used nearly every type of Linux desktop possible. Over time, one of many issues that has most impressed me is the flexibility of Linux distribution builders to reinvent the wheel in ways in which make the open-source working system extra environment friendly and extra aesthetically pleasing on the similar time. There is not any restrict to the creativity discovered within the open-source growth world — and the great thing about the Linux desktop is proof of that.
Magnificence, as we all know, is within the eye of the beholder. You may suppose Home windows 11 or MacOS Sonoma is essentially the most elegant desktop in the marketplace — and that is nice. For me, nonetheless, you can not beat a few of at the moment’s Linux desktops for efficiency, reliability, simplicity — and sweetness!
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To that finish (and after a lot deliberation), I’ve provide you with the 5 present distributions that — to this beholder — are essentially the most fantastically designed. Whether or not or not you agree with my decisions, it is laborious to dispute the wonderful work these builders have put into creating working programs which can be equal components user-friendly and eye sweet.
Let’s get to the record.
1. Elementary OS
I have been a fan of elementary OS for a very long time. What I like essentially the most about this distribution is how effectively it is designed from high to backside. It is like placing on the proper outfit and all of your equipment mechanically match. Each component of elementary OS matches. It doesn’t matter what app you are utilizing, you understand you are utilizing it on elementary OS and that is to be recommended.
Elementary OS is kind of harking back to the MacOS desktop, with a dock and top-bar format. And though elementary OS may not be almost as customizable as another distributions, there’s little room to enhance on the default format. On high of that, the dearth of customization means it is a really perfect distribution for brand new customers. As a result of elementary OS is predicated on Ubuntu, it enjoys Ubuntu’s stability and ease of software program set up.
Download an ISO of elementary OS
2. Zorin OS
The builders of Zorin OS take their aesthetics severely and it shows. Like a peacock flashing its feathers, this desktop distribution is not afraid to flaunt its flexibility. Upon set up, you get to decide on between 4 very totally different layouts — layouts resembling Home windows 11, Plasma, GNOME, and even Xfce. You should purchase the Professional version and get much more layouts. Zorin OS makes use of simply the correct amount of transparency and even features a Jelly Mode (for a pleasant wobbly window impact).Â
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The flexibility to modify simply amongst layouts (with the Zorin Look app) means customers can migrate from any desktop working system and really feel proper at residence. Zorin OS does nearly all the things a desktop working system can.
Download an ISO of Zorin OSÂ Â
3. Ubuntu Budgie
I’ve a mushy spot in my coronary heart for Ubuntu Budgie. It is the one distribution that managed to knock — even briefly — Pop!_OS from my desktop. It is lovely, simple to make use of, and provides simply sufficient sass to remind you that you simply’re not utilizing GNOME or Plasma. Ubuntu Budgie is so effectively completed that I as soon as known as it the perfect intro to Linux — and nonetheless consider that.Â
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However past being such an awesome distribution for these unfamiliar with Linux, Ubuntu Budgie presents a MacOS-like format with a flare Apple does not appear to comprehend it is lacking. For instance, the clear high bar fantastically blends into the background, whereas nonetheless making it obvious that it is there and able to serve. Ubuntu Budgie is the proper mix of nearly each Linux desktop in the marketplace and it reveals.
Download an ISO of Ubuntu Budgie Â
4. Garuda Linux (Dragonized version)
One of the best ways to explain Garuda Linux (Dragonized edition) is that it is a lot cooler than another desktop working system in the marketplace — particularly when you’ve got a penchant for darkish themes with a splash of neon. If Garuda have been a highschool pupil, it could be the one everybody would both need to know or be. It is each insurgent and sophistication president and makes everybody else appear and feel bizarre.Â
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This model of Garuda makes use of a extremely personalized Plasma desktop to ship a appear and feel that by no means fails to blow me away. You can’t dislike Garuda as a result of should you even attempt, it will make you look unhealthy doing so.Â
Yeah, it is that cool.
Download an ISO for Garuda Linux.  Â
5. KDE Neon
KDE Neon is all class, with a twist of enjoyable. It is lovely, easy, and makes an announcement. Each time I fireplace up a KDE Neon digital machine and log into the desktop, it makes me smile. When KDE Neon reveals as much as the promenade, everybody can not help however take a look at the way it’s taken one thing candy and easy to make it worthy of the title king or queen.Â
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There’s nothing to dislike about KDE Neon. Regardless that the interface is similar previous, standard, the builders have managed to make it look contemporary. It additionally helps that the wallpapers they’ve included are simply magical.
Download an ISO for KDE Neon Â
Additionally: Distros for power users | Distros for beginners | Distros for old computers
Any considered one of these Linux desktop distributions could be a worthy successor to no matter you presently use and can make your family and friends want they have been as cool as you.