Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Linux-libre VS Linux Mint

Compare Linux-libre VS Linux Mint and see what are their differences

Linux-libre logo Linux-libre

Linux-libre is a GNU package that is maintained from modified versions of the Linux kernel.

Linux Mint logo Linux Mint

Linux Mint is one of the most popular desktop Linux distributions and used by millions of people.
  • Linux-libre Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-04-21
  • Linux Mint Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-13

Linux-libre features and specs

  • Free Software Principles
    Linux-libre adheres strictly to the principles of free software by removing all proprietary code and binary blobs, ensuring users have the freedom to run, study, share, and modify the software.
  • Enhanced Privacy
    By eliminating binary blobs, which can sometimes contain proprietary spyware or undisclosed functionality, Linux-libre can enhance user privacy and trust.
  • Community Focused
    Linux-libre is developed and maintained by a community committed to software freedom, providing a platform supported by like-minded individuals.

Possible disadvantages of Linux-libre

  • Hardware Compatibility
    Removing non-free drivers and firmware can lead to hardware compatibility issues, especially with newer or less-supported devices, possibly requiring workarounds or alternative solutions.
  • Performance Limitations
    Certain proprietary drivers or firmware that are removed may provide better performance for specific hardware components, such as graphics or Wi-Fi, potentially leading to suboptimal performance with free alternatives.
  • Limited Accessibility for Non-Technical Users
    Due to potential compatibility issues and the need for more hands-on configuration, Linux-libre may be less accessible to users without technical expertise or experience with Linux systems.

Linux Mint features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    Linux Mint offers a user-friendly interface that is often considered intuitive and easy to use, especially for users who are transitioning from Windows. The desktop environment (Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce) closely mimics the traditional Windows UI.
  • Low Hardware Requirements
    Linux Mint can run efficiently on older or less powerful hardware, making it an excellent choice for extending the life of older computers.
  • Software Manager
    The built-in Software Manager provides an easy way to install, update, and remove software. It features a large repository of applications that are easy to browse.
  • Community Support
    Linux Mint has a strong and active community that provides ample support and documentation, which can be very helpful for troubleshooting and learning.
  • Pre-installed Software
    It comes with a wide array of pre-installed software, including productivity tools, multimedia applications, and system utilities, which means users can start working immediately after installation.
  • Security and Privacy
    Linux Mint offers better security and privacy compared to many other mainstream operating systems, thanks to its Linux base and the ability to control updates and software installations.

Possible disadvantages of Linux Mint

  • Learning Curve
    While Linux Mint is user-friendly, those new to Linux may still face a learning curve, particularly when it comes to using the command line for more advanced tasks.
  • Limited Professional Software
    Some professional-grade software, particularly in areas like graphic design, video editing, and certain professional services, may not be available or may require workarounds to install and run.
  • Gaming
    Despite improvements, gaming on Linux Mint is not as seamless as on Windows. A smaller library of available games and potential compatibility issues may deter gamers.
  • Hardware Compatibility
    Although Linux Mint is compatible with a wide range of hardware, there are instances where users might encounter driver issues or lack of support for certain peripheral devices.
  • Less Frequent Updates
    The release cycle of Linux Mint is slower compared to some other distributions, which means it may take longer for users to receive the latest features and updates.
  • Software Ecosystem
    While Linux Mint has a substantial array of applications available, it doesn’t quite match the breadth and depth of software available for Windows or macOS. Some software may need to run via compatibility layers like Wine.

Analysis of Linux Mint

Overall verdict

  • Linux Mint is considered a solid choice for both beginners transitioning from other operating systems and experienced users looking for a stable and reliable Linux distribution. Its ease of use, extensive documentation, and active community support make it a favorable option.

Why this product is good

  • Linux Mint is often praised for its user-friendly interface, stability, and compatibility with a wide range of hardware. It's based on Ubuntu, which means it benefits from a vast community and extensive software repositories. Users appreciate its Cinnamon desktop environment for being intuitive and similar to the traditional Windows layout, making it approachable for those new to Linux.

Recommended for

  • New users looking to transition from Windows or macOS
  • Users seeking a stable and reliable everyday operating system
  • Developers and tech enthusiasts who appreciate customization potential
  • Users with older hardware who need a lightweight yet capable OS

Linux-libre videos

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Linux Mint videos

Reviewed: Linux Mint 19.3 "Tricia" (Cinnamon Edition)

More videos:

  • Review - Linux Mint 19.2 "Tina" Review (Cinnamon Edition)
  • Review - Feature Complete? - Linux Mint 19.1 Review

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Linux-libre and Linux Mint)
Linux Distribution
1 1%
99% 99
Linux
1 1%
99% 99
Operating Systems
1 1%
99% 99
Open Source
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Linux-libre and Linux Mint

Linux-libre Reviews

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Linux Mint Reviews

  1. Best linux distro

    i have used about 2years linux mint and i really like it look and feel

    🏁 Competitors: Ubuntu, Windows 10
    👍 Pros:    Easy to use|Easy user interface|Easy customizability|Secure
    👎 Cons:    Slow

10 Most Popular Linux Distros of the Year 2023
For most of the Desktop users who move from Windows to Linux, their first preference would be the popular Mint. It is because of the user-friendly Cinnamon interface and out-of-the-box multimedia support. Also, it is based on Ubuntu, although Debian Linux Mint is also available, still the Ubuntu derived Mint is more common among the users. You will have Software Manager to...
The 5 Best Privacy-Focused Operating Systems
Linux Mint is a popular Linux distribution known for its user-friendliness. You can configure Linux Mint to enhance your privacy, and, when combined with the Cinnamon desktop environment, it offers a smooth and familiar user experience. As with any Linux distribution, Linux Mint offers open source code, but also comes with antivirus capabilities, making it easier for you to...
12 Best Linux Distros You Should Use
Linux Mint has established itself as one of the best distros for beginner Linux users, thanks to Cinnamon’s simplicity (Linux Mint’s desktop environment) and ease of use. It’s an Ubuntu-based operating system that’s good for day-to-day usage and gaming. The Windows-like feel of Mint makes users switching from Windows feel at home and is one of the main selling points of the...
Source: beebom.com
Finding the Best Linux Distro for Your Organization
Debian is known for its commitment to open source principles, stability, and extensive package management system. It serves as the foundation for various other Linux distros such as Ubuntu and Linux Mint. Debian is widely used in both desktop and server environments.
The best Linux distributions (operating systems)
Linux Mint is also based on Ubuntu and is now an established alternative. The operating system is based on specially designed desktop environments and comes with important software pre-installed. The system is considered stable and user-friendly. Hardware support, useful security tools, and a practical file manager are available. For (former) Windows users, Linux Mint is...
Source: www.ionos.com

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Linux Mint seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 423 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Linux-libre mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Linux-libre yet. Tracking of Linux-libre recommendations started around Mar 2021.

Linux Mint mentions (423)

  • best Distro for Noob
    When I started out, I used red hat, Suse linux, and then finally I jumped to Ubuntu, when they killed gnome and rolled out their new GUI later, I switched to Ubuntu Mate, with xfce alternatively installed. And then later came MINT. Which is based on ubuntu anyway. Source: over 1 year ago
  • Windows 10 support doesn't end in 2025 after all, if you pay up
    I'm partial to Linux Mint myself, but at this point, if you're not running some Windows specific software, there's less and less reason to use it every year. Source: over 1 year ago
  • Introduction
    My first Linux distro was PopOS and It was a refreshing experience. It was really easy to install, use, and game on. I distro hopped a few times to see what other linux flavors are like. These are the ones that I remember trying Zorin OS and Linux Mint. These ones looked mostly like windows and it was easy to use. At work, I gained most of my linux knowledge from docker and configuring / administrating RHEL... - Source: dev.to / over 1 year ago
  • is linuxmint.com down?
    I cant access the site , is linuxmint.com down ? Source: over 1 year ago
  • Why Linux Mint is the best Linux distribution
    If you have been reading some of the articles on my blog, you will have seen that I often talk about macOS or the Mac Mini. And this is because this is the preferred machine that I use for the development of multiplatform apps, however, my main operating system, the one I use "by default", the one I use for personal and professional management, the one I use for my tech experiments, is, and has been for the past... - Source: dev.to / almost 2 years ago
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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Linux-libre and Linux Mint, you can also consider the following products

XNU - XNU is a hybrid kernel combining the Mach kernel with components from FreeBSD and C++

Ubuntu - Ubuntu is a Debian Linux-based open source operating system for desktop computers.

FreeBSD - FreeBSD is an advanced operating system for x86 compatible (including Pentium® and Athlon™)...

Fedora - Fedora creates an innovative, free, and open source platform for hardware, clouds, and containers that enables software developers and community members to build tailored solutions for their users.

Linux kernel - The Linux kernel is the operating system kernel used by the Linux family of Unix-like operating...

Manjaro - Manjaro Linux is a linux distribution which is based on arch linux. It uses the PACMAN package manager.