Is Linux Mint Really the Best for Beginners? An Honest Look
Linux Mint is often recommended as the top choice for new Linux users and those seeking a stable experience. But after trying it out on a real computer (not just a virtual one), I'm a bit disappointed. It might not be as great as people say.
My Experience with Linux Mint
I installed Linux Mint alongside Windows 11 on my main computer. While I had high hopes, here's what I found:
Setting up was a struggle: Getting my webcam and recording software to work was surprisingly difficult. Programs that usually work well on other Linux versions like Ubuntu or Arch didn't behave properly on Mint.
Video playback issues: I couldn't play recorded videos! The audio worked, but the video just wouldn't show up in any media player I tried, even popular ones like VLC. Some programs even crashed and wouldn't close.
Gaming problems: Even a common game like Minecraft, which usually runs on Linux, didn't work well on Mint. It seems like it requires a lot of extra effort to get things going.
"Out-of-the-box" claim: Linux Mint advertises itself as working "out-of-the-box" with all the apps most people need. My experience suggests otherwise, especially with common tasks like video playback and gaming.
Why the Issues?
One big reason for these problems might be the Cinnamon desktop environment that Linux Mint uses. It's still largely based on an older display server called X11, while newer Linux systems are moving to Wayland, which offers better performance and features. While Cinnamon looks nice and familiar (like Windows), its compatibility with other software seems to be a major hurdle.
My Recommendation for New Linux Users
If you're new to Linux and want a smooth experience, I suggest looking into distributions that get frequent software and kernel updates. This ensures you're using the most improved versions of Linux.
In my opinion, Ubuntu is currently the best Linux operating system for beginners. It generally works well right out of the box without much fuss. If you're keen to dive deeper and learn more about Linux, Arch Linux is a powerful option, but it requires a lot more manual setup and maintenance.
Also, when choosing a Linux distribution, stick to the popular desktop environments like KDE or GNOME. GNOME, in particular, is very polished and stable, and it supports Wayland by default.
When is Linux Mint a Good Choice?
While Linux Mint might not be ideal for a modern, daily-driver PC, it can be a good option for reviving older computers that struggle with Windows. If you need a simpler operating system that uses fewer resources, Linux Mint could fit the bill for that specific purpose.
Ultimately, Linux is constantly improving. To get the best experience, it's important to choose a distribution that keeps up with these advancements and offers strong software compatibility.
I’ve also made a video on this topic — you can watch it below.
Check out my other posts, I post useful tutorials and tech tips, maybe you will find something useful 😉.
