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Switching to Linux

You don't have to figure this out alone. Pick the guide that matches where you're coming from, and we'll walk you through every step.

Switching operating systems sounds scary, but honestly? It's more like moving to a new apartment than moving to a new country. Most of your stuff works the same way -- the light switches are just in different spots.

These guides are written for regular people, not sysadmins. You don't need to know what a "kernel" is. You just need a USB drive and an hour or two.

Windows to Linux Mint

The smoothest switch. Mint looks and feels familiar to Windows users. Our most detailed guide -- start here if you're not sure.

Windows to Ubuntu

Ubuntu is the most popular Linux distro. A modern desktop experience with GNOME, massive community support, and tons of tutorials online.

macOS to Linux

Leaving the Apple ecosystem? This guide covers iCloud alternatives, package managers, and finding your footing on a Linux desktop.
Not sure which guide to pick?

Here's a quick cheat sheet:

  • You want the easiest possible switch from Windows -- go with Windows to Linux Mint. The desktop layout will feel instantly familiar.
  • You want something modern and widely supported -- go with Windows to Ubuntu. It's the distro with the most online help available.
  • You're coming from a Mac -- go with macOS to Linux. It covers the specific things Mac users will miss and how to replace them.

Still stuck? Try our distro picker tool -- it asks you a few questions and recommends a distro.

Do I have to delete Windows/macOS to try Linux?

Absolutely not. You have several options to try Linux without committing:

  • Live USB -- Boot Linux from a USB drive without installing anything. Your hard drive is untouched.
  • Virtual machine -- Run Linux inside a window on your current OS using free software like VirtualBox.
  • Dual boot -- Install Linux alongside your current OS. You pick which to use each time you start your computer.

Every migration guide covers the "try before you commit" approach. There's zero reason to go all-in on day one.

Tip: Whichever guide you follow, the most important step is backing up your files first. Not because Linux will eat them -- but because it's good practice any time you're making big changes to your computer.

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