Whether you are making the jump from macOS to Linux or are someone who simply appreciates the refined aesthetic of Apple's operating system, you don't have to choose between the versatility of Linux and the sleek design of macOS.
There are several Linux distributions that are designed to mimic the look, feel, and even the workflow of macOS. So, here are three such distros that let you enjoy the Apple aesthetic on your Linux computer.
Elementary OS
When it comes to Linux distros that are similar to macOS, Elementary OS is often the most recommended. There are several reasons for this. For example, its Pantheon desktop environment has an Apple-inspired look and feel. While it's not a one-to-one copy, its visual aesthetics, layout, and window controls are pretty similar. For example, you get a macOS-like dock at the bottom, along with a panel at the top that houses system indicators, the date, and time.
Its relatively intuitive interface makes it easier for Mac migrants to settle in, and the built-in AppCenter makes them feel at home. Like Apple, Elementary OS favors apps that follow its human interface guidelines , providing an experience consistent with the rest of the operating system. However, it has also started integrating Flathub by default into the AppCenter, making it much easier to get apps that aren't part of Elementary's curated selection.
You'll also appreciate its Multitasking view, as it has a similar functionality to that of Mission Control .
While you'll find a lot of inspiration from macOS, some features, such as the global menu and Spotlight search, are not present. Elementary's search feature tries to mimic Spotlight, but it's not as feature-rich.
Elementary OS is based on Ubuntu's Long Term Support releases and comes with a reasonable selection of apps pre-installed to make it easier to get started with the operating system.
Why You Should Consider Elementary OS
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It looks like macOS out of the box, with a streamlined layout.
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Whether you're coming from macOS or Windows, the learning curve is shorter on Elementary OS.
Why Elementary OS Might Not Be Right for You
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Elementary's design is quite opinionated and doesn't allow for easy customization.
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It doesn't support automated upgrades for major releases. You'll have to manually upgrade.
Zorin OS Pro
Zorin OS is widely considered an excellent distro for Linux newcomers , as its default interface is designed for ease of use, and it comes with all the essentials you need for a solid start in the world of Linux. One of its biggest strengths is the built-in seamless support for switching the desktop layout. Using the Zorin Appearance feature, you can choose from the available desktop layouts to get a more familiar look.
While the free version, called Zorin Core, only gives you access to four layouts, you get six more in the Pro version. These six premium layouts include one that'll turn your Linux computer into a macOS lookalike with just a click. While you can try to achieve a similar look in the free version of Zorin or other distros, the Pro version removes all the legwork and fiddling, which is particularly helpful for a beginner.
The macOS-like layout on Zorin is clean and polished. You get a dock at the bottom and a top bar with the Zorin logo, date, time, quick settings, and notifications. You also get window controls on the left.
The built-in "Software Center" is another highlight of the Zorin OS, as it's a one-stop shop for all your app needs. It pulls apps from multiple sources, including Flathub, Snap Store, and Ubuntu's APT repositories.
There is a lot to like about the Zorin OS Pro. However, it costs $48 as a one-time purchase. Although you don't pay for point release updates, you may need to pay again for each new major upgrade.
Why You Should Consider Zorin OS Pro
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It's incredibly user-friendly, and picking your favorite desktop layout is a one-click endeavor.
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Zorin OS Pro comes preloaded with professional-grade creative and productivity software.
Why Zorin OS Pro Might Not Be Right for You
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You don't like to pay for your Linux distros.
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If you have older or less powerful hardware.
Honorable Mention
If you don't want to shell out for Zorin OS Pro and aren't willing to put in the effort needed to manually tweak the appearance of Zorin Core to get a macOS-like design, Deepin is an alternative distro that you can consider.
Deepin has a clean and modern design that's not exactly like macOS, but several of its UI aspects seem inspired by Apple's operating system. For example, the "Quick actions" applet is quite similar to the Control Center on macOS. Similarly, its multitasking view, the bottom dock, and search have elements reminiscent of macOS. Unlike Zorin OS Pro, it's free to use.
One thing to note here is that Deepin is developed by a Chinese company, and the company's alleged links to a state-backed entity have led to some privacy and security concerns in the broader Linux community. So, you'll have to decide whether you're comfortable with these concerns.
Ubuntu Budgie
As the name suggests, Ubuntu Budgie is a flavor or spin on the popular Ubuntu Linux distribution and leverages the Budgie Desktop Environment. Although it's not as visually similar to macOS out of the box as Elementary, it packs all the building blocks needed to achieve a visual aesthetic akin to macOS. That said, by default, there is a macOS-like dock at the bottom and a top panel.
You can tweak the appearance using the built-in Makeover & Layouts tool, Plank dock configuration, top panel customization, and other settings to get closer to the macOS vibe. Additionally, Ubuntu Budgie includes a Hot Corners applet that works similarly to the Hot Corners feature in macOS.
Besides Ubuntu Budgie's macOS-like aesthetic, the distro has a lot going for it. It's based on Ubuntu, which has a reliable and stable foundation. It also shares the same extensive selection of apps that regular Unbuntu enjoys, through the built-in App Center.
Moreover, Ubuntu Budgie plays well with modest hardware. So, even if you don't have a high-end computer, you'll get a responsive and fluid experience.
Why You Should Consider Ubuntu Budgie
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The Budgie Desktop Environment in Ubuntu Budgie is more resource-efficient than Elementary's Pantheon or Zorin's GNOME.
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It's quite customizable and flexible, with tons of built-in tools to help you modify the distro's look and behavior.
Why Ubuntu Budgie Might Not Be Right for You
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You won't get a macOS-like appearance out of the box.
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There is a learning curve to the customization options present in Ubuntu Budgie.
Which Distro Should You Choose?
If you're a macOS migrant moving to the exciting world of Linux distros, the options explored above are all excellent choices. As discussed, each has its advantages and disadvantages. That said, for most people, Elementary OS is an easy choice. It has a clean and minimalist design akin to macOS and doesn't require tinkering on your part. Coming from macOS, you'll also appreciate the effort put into creating a cohesive and consistent experience.
But if you don't mind a bit of work to get a desktop experience that's suitable for you, Ubuntu Budgie is a solid alternative. Its personalization options can get you a macOS-like visual aesthetic while keeping a reliable and stable Ubuntu core.
Finally, for those who don't mind shelling out a bit of money, Zorin OS Pro is great. With just a click, you can get the macOS aesthetic. It's also an excellent distro for newcomers. Plus, for what you pay, you get professional-grade creative apps and official installation support from the Zorin team. And, of course, you get to support its development.
If you're still unsure, you can give each of these distros a spin without actually installing them. There are several ways to try a Linux distro , including running it in a virtual machine . This way, you'll get a real sense of the distro, and hopefully, that'll make it easier to pick one. One thing to note here is that the Elementary OS team says it doesn't play well with VMs. While you can still run it, you won't get the best experience.
How to Get Started
Once you've finalized the distro you want on your computer, the rest of the process is fairly easy. All you have to do is download its ISO from the official website. I have included download links for all the mentioned distros above.
With the ISO file in hand, you'll need a tool to flash it onto a USB drive, which you'll later use for the actual installation. The Raspberry Pi Imager is an excellent tool to do this on both Windows and macOS. Although it's meant to create bootable USB media for use with Raspberry Pi hardware, it's perfectly suitable for our needs. You can use a Flatpak package called Impression to create a bootable USB drive on a Linux machine.
Before you move to the actual installation, make sure you have backed up any important data from your machine . After backing up all that you need, boot up your computer using the USB media and follow the on-screen instructions. You can also consult our guide on how to install Linux for help.
