Millions Are Switching to Linux Instead of Windows 11!

If you're still using Windows 10, you probably know that Microsoft ended support in October 2025. This means no more security updates, which makes your PC vulnerable. While one option is upgrading to Windows 11, many people are choosing a completely different path—Linux. And one Linux distribution that has gained massive attention recently is Zorin OS.

Zorin OS recently hit 1 million downloads in just over a month, which is huge for any Linux distro. Even more interesting, around 80% of these downloads came from Windows devices. So why is everyone suddenly trying Zorin OS? Let's break it down in a simple, beginner-friendly way.

🌟 What Is Zorin OS?

Zorin OS is a beautiful, fast, and beginner‑friendly Linux operating system designed to look and feel familiar for Windows users. It’s open‑source, secure, and does not slow down your older hardware.

When you visit the official website, you'll notice one thing immediately—the UI looks absolutely stunning. Zorin OS is easily one of the best-looking operating systems available today.

There are two versions:

• Free Version – fully usable with no limitations.

• Pro Version – costs around $48 and unlocks extra layouts, themes, and customization options.

But for most users, the free version is more than enough.

🖥️ How I Tested It: Using a Virtual Machine

If you're new to Linux, the safest way to try it is through a virtual machine (VM). For this test, I used VMware Workstation, which used to be premium software but is now completely free for everyone.

🎨 First Impressions: Beautiful and Consistent

As soon as Zorin OS loaded, it was clear why people love it. Everything—from the lock screen to animations—felt clean, modern, and polished.

Windows has struggled with UI consistency since Windows 8, but Zorin OS nails it. Every app, menu, and setting looks unified.

Key highlights:

• Smooth animations

• Fast performance (even inside a VM)

• Clean start menu similar to Windows 10

• Built‑in light and dark themes

• Multiple layout options

The free version gives you four layout styles, including a Windows‑like setup. With Zorin OS Pro, you get more layouts like Windows 11, macOS, and Ubuntu styles.

⚙️ Apps, Software, and Compatibility

Zorin OS includes many apps out of the box:

• LibreOffice (Word/Excel/PowerPoint alternative)

• Video and audio apps

• Camera app

• Software Center for installing apps and games

You can even install Windows apps thanks to built-in Windows App Support.

Gaming has also improved massively on Linux.

• Around 90% of Windows games now work on Linux.

• Games with strict anti-cheat (Valorant, Fortnite) still don’t work.

• Minecraft works perfectly and is available in the store.

🔐 Performance, Security & Hardware Support

Zorin OS 18 uses:

• Linux Kernel 6.14 (quite recent and stable)

• Wayland by default—even inside a VM

It's lightweight, fast, secure, and respects your privacy. For older computers that can’t run Windows 11, Zorin OS can literally bring them back to life.

💬 Who Should Use Zorin OS?

✔️ Great for:

• Beginners switching from Windows

• Older laptops/PCs

• Casual users (web browsing, documents, media)

• Users who want privacy

• Fans of beautiful UI

❗ Not ideal for:

• Heavy Adobe software users

• Gamers who rely on anti-cheat titles

• Advanced Linux users who prefer bleeding-edge systems

If you’re okay using alternatives (GIMP, LibreOffice) or web versions of apps (Office Online), Zorin OS is nearly perfect.

🎯 Final Thoughts

Zorin OS 18 is one of the most polished and user-friendly Linux distros ever made. It’s fast, lightweight, consistent, and perfect for anyone looking to move away from Windows.

If Microsoft continues pushing unwanted AI features and inconsistent UI updates, Linux—especially systems like Zorin OS—might become the future for many users.

Try it on a virtual machine first. If you like it, you can even install it on your old or main PC.

Official site :https://zorin.com/os/

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 😉.