Linux Mint vs Zorin OS: how they differ
Linux Mint and Zorin OS are often considered side by side. This page compares what each one is built on, how it looks, how software is installed, how updates arrive and what hardware it needs.
Key differences
- Foundation: both are built on Ubuntu, so much of the help, software and troubleshooting advice for one applies to the other.
- Desktop: Linux Mint uses Cinnamon; Zorin OS uses a Windows-style GNOME desktop.
- Software tools: Linux Mint uses apt and Flatpak; Zorin OS uses apt, so the commands you learn for one do not carry over.
- Releases: both follow long-term releases that stay supported for years.
- Memory: about 4 GB for Linux Mint against about 4 GB for Zorin OS is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Choose Linux Mint if
You are among the people moving from Windows who want a familiar, conservative desktop that rarely changes.
Choose Zorin OS if
You are among the people switching from Windows who want a polished layout from day one.
Quick answers
- Which is easier for a beginner? Both suit beginners, so choose on look and feel.
- Which suits older hardware? They ask for a similar amount of memory.
- Can I try both? Yes. Start each from a live USB drive without installing, or put both on one drive with Ventoy.
Browse the Linux Mint USB drive or the Zorin OS USB drive. Learn more: what is Linux Mint and what is Zorin OS.
Software commands compared
- Linux Mint:
sudo apt install name - Zorin OS:
sudo apt install name
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Linux Mint or Zorin OS?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose by what you need: Linux Mint suits people moving from Windows who want a familiar, conservative desktop that rarely changes, while Zorin OS suits people switching from Windows who want a polished layout from day one.
Can I install both Linux Mint and Zorin OS?
Yes. Install each one on its own partition, or try both from a live USB drive first. See dual booting for the idea, which also works between two Linux systems.
Which gets updates faster, Linux Mint or Zorin OS?
Linux Mint uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; Zorin OS uses long-term releases that stay supported for years.