Top 8 Stunning Linux Distributions for Beginners and Power Users

1. elementary OS

elementary OS is a beautifully polished desktop Linux distribution based on Ubuntu, originally a theme project that grew into an independent OS. It markets itself as a fast, open‑source alternative to Windows/macOS.

Because it is Ubuntu‑derived, it is compatible with all Ubuntu packages, but it replaces many default apps with lightweight alternatives such as Geary Mail, Pantheon Terminal, Scratch editor, noise music player, and Pantheon Files.

The design borrows heavily from macOS, offering a clean and elegant user experience.

macOS‑like appearance

Lightweight and efficient desktop environment

Curated set of applications

2. Deepin

Deepin is a popular Chinese Linux distribution known for its beautiful and easy‑to‑use interface, built on Qt technology with its own Deepin Desktop Environment and Control Center.

It offers a smooth installation experience, a rich Deepin Store, and a history dating back to 2004 (originally Hiweed Linux, a Debian‑based local version).

The desktop environment has evolved through IceWM, Xfce, LXDE, GNOME, and finally the custom Deepin Desktop Environment.

Innovative features

Attractive design

Deepin Store

Simple installer

3. Solus OS

Solus OS, built from scratch on a Debian base, quickly became one of the fastest‑growing desktop Linux distributions, featuring a minimalist, flat, modern look and bundling essential software such as LibreOffice, Firefox, Thunderbird, XChat, and OpenShot.

It uses the Budgie desktop (originally based on GNOME) but developed independently, and recently added Snap support from the Ubuntu Snap Store.

One of the fastest‑growing new distros

Budgie desktop environment

Snap package support

Ready‑to‑use out of the box

4. Nitrux

Nitrux is a design‑focused Linux distribution based on the Ubuntu unstable development branch, using the KDE Plasma‑5‑based Nomad desktop environment.

It features custom applications such as the Babe music player and the Nomad firewall tool, follows a rolling release model, and provides only 64‑bit builds.

Customizable applications

Beautiful desktop UI

Minimalist design

5. KDE Neon

KDE Neon provides the latest KDE software as soon as it is released, built on Ubuntu LTS for stability while offering a sleek flat theme, widgets, and a user‑friendly menu.

Latest KDE applications

Based on stable Ubuntu LTS

Beautiful flat theme and widgets

6. feren OS

feren OS is based on Linux Mint and features a customized Cinnamon desktop, delivering a visually appealing experience reminiscent of macOS and Windows, with a familiar start button, taskbar, and WINE compatibility for Windows applications.

Familiar desktop and start menu

Clean, flat design

Modern look, beginner‑friendly

7. Pop!_OS

Pop!_OS, created by System76, is based on Ubuntu with the GNOME desktop, offering a customized UI, driver support, and a focus on productivity for engineers, developers, and researchers.

Soothing color theme

Fresh look with minimalist style

Designed for computer‑science creativity

8. Zorin OS

Zorin OS, based on Ubuntu, targets Linux newcomers with a Windows‑like interface, built‑in WINE support, and a suite of preinstalled office and entertainment applications, aiming to provide a seamless Windows replacement.

Familiar Windows workflow

Popular distro with strong support

Elegant and stable Linux desktop experience

Source: Open Source China Editorial Department my.oschina.net/editorial-story/blog/1548766