Ubuntu is the #1 and the most popular distro out there. Even though Linux Mint appeals more to new users Ubuntu has a rigorous release cycle and tends to have more features implemented in each release. Ubuntu does not come with a load of software and codecs pre installed like Linux Mint. So new users may have trouble playing certain media formats and may require a few command line installations but due to the excellent community support they can be sorted out within minutes.
Linux Mint is known as the second most popular linux distribution simply because of its user friendliness. It comes with loads of software carefully picked by the team. The distro works so well out of the box you will not be spending any time trouble shooting. The Distro focuses on what is best for its users and provides what the mainstream linux users demand (most of the time). Linux Mint 13 comes in 2 editions. The Cinnamon edition includes a modern Gnome 3 desktop with a familiar and traditional layout. The MATE edition comes with a Gnome 2 desktop.
Pinguy OS is an Ubuntu based distribution that comes with A LOT of software preinstalled. It is great for users who want to explore the extensive software that Linux has to offer. It is also very convenient because it includes almost all the software that a user may require. Pinguy OS is a fairly new distro but it is gaining popularity quickly. Pinguy OS includes two Docks by default and the overall look of the desktop leans toward OS X. Pinguy OS 12.04 includes a customized gnome-shell.
Zorin OS is optimized for users who are transitioning From windows. It looks quite similar to Windows 7 and comes with “zorin look changer” that can make your desktop look similar to older Windows versions and Mac OS X. Zorin OS also offers four premium versions (Ultimate, Business, Multimedia, Gaming) which are available upon donating. There is also a free version that does not come with as much software preinstalled.
Joli OS is a one of a kind distro and it is a very interesting one at that. Its interface is built from HTML5 and installing apps is a piece of cake. Joli OS is a cloud based OS that encourages the use of Cloud applications. You can browse your application launcher from any computer using the web browser so you can access your cloud apps even if you don’t have the machine that has Joli OS installed. Its interface is very interesting and appeals to a lot of new users.
Not well known and fairly new. One of our personal favorites. With language support for english french and spanish. Set up was a breeze. A distro developed for beginners. Quick Setup Mode through automation scripts. Install standalone without Internet, everything is in the distribution. Parental controls and anti-tracking in browsers. A dock for easy access to all your programs. ubuntu one, dropbox, teamviewer, skype, ect. This distro has so much packed in you will feel right at home with it.
