Zorin OS vs Elementary OS: Best Linux for New Users

Published: 20 Jan 2026

Zorin OS and Elementary OS remain two of the most popular beginner Linux systems this year. Both run on Ubuntu LTS, both focus on clean design, and both target users who leave Windows or macOS. After installing and using Zorin OS vs Elementary OS on multiple laptops and desktops, I noticed clear differences in speed, layout control, and daily usability.

One system adapts to you, while the other asks you to adapt to it. These differences appear within the first hour of use. This comparison focuses on real behaviour, not feature lists. It helps you choose the system that fits how you actually work.

Table of Content

Let’s dive in.

Differences Between Zorin OS & Elementary OS

Here is a list of differences between Zorin OS and Elementary OS below.

Desktop Experience & User Interface
Performance & System Requirements
Installation & Setup Experience
Software Ecosystem & Compatibility
Customization & Flexibility
Security & Privacy
Community & Support

Let’s discuss all these points in detail one by one.

Desktop Experience & User Interface

This section explains how the screen looks and how easy it feels to use every day.

Zorin OS Desktop Experience

Zorin OS looks familiar if you used Windows before. I found it easy to move around from the first day. You can change how the desktop looks with just a few clicks.

Looks like Windows by default
Easy menu and taskbar
Icons and buttons feel clear
Works well for new users
You can change layouts easily

Elementary OS Desktop Experience

Elementary OS looks clean and simple like a Mac. I liked how calm and neat the screen feels. It hides extra options to avoid confusion.

Clean and simple design
No clutter on the screen
Easy for basic tasks
Same look everywhere
Less choice for changes

Performance & System Requirements

This part shows how fast the system runs and what computer it needs.

Zorin OS Performance

Zorin OS runs well on both new and old computers. I tested it on an older laptop, and it stayed smooth.

Runs fast on low RAM
Good for old laptops
Stable and smooth
Lite version for weak PCs
Uses memory wisely

Elementary OS Performance

Elementary OS runs best on newer computers. It feels smooth but needs more power.

Needs more RAM
Best on new systems
Smooth animations
Can feel slow on old PCs
Uses more system power

Installation & Setup Experience

This section explains how easy it is to install and start using the system.

Zorin OS Installation

Zorin OS installs quickly and guides you step by step. I finished setup without help.

Simple install screen
Clear instructions
Easy language
Good for beginners
Fast setup process

Elementary OS Installation

Elementary OS also installs easily but asks more questions. It feels calm and slow.

Clean install design
Few but clear steps
Takes more time
Needs internet setup
Simple final result

Software Ecosystem & Compatibility

This part explains apps, games, and software support.

Zorin OS Software Support

Zorin OS supports many apps and even Windows apps. I installed games and tools without problems.

Large app store
Supports Windows apps
Works with Steam
Easy app install
Many free programs

Elementary OS Software Support

Elementary OS uses its own app store. Apps feel safe but fewer in number.

Small app store
High-quality apps
Paid apps supported
No clutter apps
Limited software choice

Customization & Flexibility

This section shows how much you can change the system.

Zorin OS Customization

Zorin OS lets you change many things. I changed the look in minutes.

Change layouts easily
Many themes
Move panels and icons
Control full design
Great for explorers

Elementary OS Customization

Elementary OS keeps things fixed. It prefers one clean style.

Very limited changes
Same look always
No layout switching
Few theme options
Focus on simplicity

Security & Privacy

This part explains how safe your data stays.

Zorin OS Security

Zorin OS gives strong security with regular updates. I felt safe using it daily.

Regular updates
No hidden tracking
Safe app sources
Strong system base
User control

Elementary OS Security

Elementary OS focuses a lot on privacy. It asks before apps use data.

Strong privacy rules
App permissions
No data tracking
Secure updates
User-first design

Community & Support

This section shows where users get help.

Zorin OS Community

Zorin OS has a large and active community. I found answers quickly online.

Helpful forums
Many guides
YouTube tutorials
Fast help
Paid support option

Elementary OS Community

Elementary OS has a smaller but kind community. Help feels friendly.

Calm user forums
Helpful developers
Clear documents
Slower replies
Quality support

Quick Summary Table: Zorin OS vs Elementary OS

Here is a quick comparison table of Zorin OS vs Elementary OS.

Feature	Zorin OS	Elementary OS
Based on	Ubuntu LTS	Ubuntu LTS
Desktop environment	GNOME + custom layouts	Pantheon
Best for	Windows users, flexibility	macOS style, simplicity
Customization	High	Limited
App ecosystem	Ubuntu repos + Flatpak/Snap	Ubuntu + curated AppCenter

Target Audience: Who Should Choose Which?

This section helps you decide which system fits you best based on how you use your computer.

Who Should Choose Zorin OS

Zorin OS is best for people who want freedom and familiar controls. I often suggest it to users moving from Windows.

Windows users switching to Linux
People using old or slow computers
Users who like to change the desktop
Beginners who want easy controls
Gamers and app users

Who Should Choose Elementary OS

Elementary OS is best for people who like simple and clean screens. I recommend it to users who want less distraction.

Mac users moving to Linux
People who like clean design
Users who want fewer settings
Beginners who like simple tools
Privacy-focused users

Conclusion

In this guide, we have covered Zorin OS vs Elementary OS with real usage in mind. I believe the key is to balance design, performance, and flexibility while understanding the limits of each system. You can reduce risks by using supported apps, keeping backups, and selecting the OS that fits your habits. Both systems stay stable when used the right way. I truly appreciate your time and attention.

Don’t skip the next part of the FAQs. I hope you will find something more interesting, so don’t miss it. If you miss it, you may lose something new.

FAQs about Zorin OS vs Elementary OS

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions related to Zorin OS vs Elementary OS.

Which is better for beginners, Zorin OS or Elementary OS?

Zorin OS vs Elementary OS both work well for beginners, but Zorin OS feels easier for most people. It looks like Windows and feels familiar from the first day. Elementary OS suits users who want a very simple screen.

Is Zorin OS faster than Elementary OS on old computers?

Zorin OS vs Elementary OS shows clear speed differences on old hardware. Zorin OS runs better on low RAM and slow processors. Elementary OS works best on newer systems.

Can I run Windows apps in Zorin OS vs Elementary OS?

Zorin OS vs Elementary OS both support Linux apps, but Zorin OS handles Windows apps better. Zorin OS includes tools like Wine and supports more software. Elementary OS has limited support for Windows programs.

Which Linux OS is better for Windows users switching to Linux?

Zorin OS vs Elementary OS clearly favours Zorin OS for Windows users. The menu, taskbar, and layout feel very familiar. Elementary OS feels more like macOS.

Is Elementary OS really free to download and use?

Zorin OS vs Elementary OS differ in pricing style. Elementary OS lets you choose how much you want to pay, even zero. You still get the full system.

Which is better for customisation, Zorin OS or Elementary OS?

Zorin OS vs Elementary OS shows a big gap in customisation. Zorin OS allows layout changes, themes, and panel moves. Elementary OS keeps most things fixed.

Is Zorin OS vs Elementary OS better for gaming?

Zorin OS vs Elementary OS favours Zorin OS for gaming. It supports Steam, drivers, and game tools better. Elementary OS is not designed for gaming.

Which OS is more secure, Zorin OS or Elementary OS?

Zorin OS vs Elementary OS both offer strong security. Elementary OS focuses more on privacy and app permissions. Zorin OS focuses on system stability and updates.

Do Zorin OS vs Elementary OS get regular updates?

Zorin OS vs Elementary OS both use Ubuntu LTS for updates. This means long-term support and stability. Updates arrive regularly and safely.

Should I choose Zorin OS or Elementary OS this year?

Zorin OS vs Elementary OS depends on how you use your computer. Choose Zorin OS for flexibility and power. Choose Elementary OS for simplicity and clean design.