2023-02-26    Share on: Twitter | Facebook | HackerNews | Reddit

The Best Linux Distributions for Old X86 Laptop to Have Windows-Like Look and Feel.

There are several Linux distributions that can provide a Windows-like look and feel, but the best one for an old x86 laptop will depend on the hardware specifications of the device. Here are some options that you can consider:

1. Lubuntu

Lubuntu is a lightweight Ubuntu-based Linux distribution that uses the LXDE desktop environment. It is designed to be fast and resource-efficient, making it ideal for older hardware. Lubuntu's user interface is similar to Windows XP, which can make the transition from Windows to Linux easier for users.

Lubuntu

2. Linux Mint Xfce

Linux Mint Xfce is another lightweight Linux distribution that uses the Xfce desktop environment. It is based on Ubuntu and is designed to be easy to use and visually appealing. Linux Mint Xfce's user interface is similar to Windows 7, which can make it a familiar environment for Windows users.

Linux Mint

3. Zorin OS Lite

Zorin OS Lite is a lightweight version of Zorin OS, a Linux distribution designed to be easy to use and visually appealing. It uses the Xfce desktop environment and comes with a Windows-like user interface that includes a Start menu and a taskbar.

NOTE: Zorin OS Lite (dedicated for old computers) is a paid option. Zorin OS Core (for use with modern computers) is free.

Zorin OS Lite

4. Peppermint OS

Peppermint OS is a lightweight Linux distribution that uses the LXDE desktop environment. It is designed to be fast and efficient and can run on older hardware. Peppermint OS's user interface is designed to be familiar to Windows users, with a taskbar and a Start menu.

Peppermint OS

5. LXLE

LXLE is a lightweight Linux distribution that uses the LXDE desktop environment. It is designed to be easy to use and visually appealing and can run on older hardware. LXLE's user interface is similar to Windows XP, which can make it a familiar environment for Windows users.

LXLE

Table with comparison of Distros

Distribution Desktop Environment Windows-like Interface Resource Usage Ease of Use
Lubuntu LXDE Yes (Windows XP) Low Easy
Linux Mint Xfce Xfce Yes (Windows 7) Low Easy
Zorin OS Lite Xfce Yes Low Easy
Peppermint OS LXDE Yes Low Easy
LXLE LXDE Yes (Windows XP) Low Easy

All of these Linux distributions are lightweight and should run smoothly on older x86 laptops. They also have a Windows-like user interface that can make the transition from Windows to Linux easier for users.

  1. Lubuntu: https://lubuntu.net/
  2. Linux Mint Xfce: https://linuxmint.com/
  3. Zorin OS Lite: https://zorinos.com/
  4. Peppermint OS: https://peppermintos.com/
  5. LXLE: https://lxle.net/