T
he latest Ubuntu (24.04) is also the most suitable for beginners, as it’s a Long Term Service (LTS) version that will be supported for free until 2029. Installing an operating system requires some technical knowledge, but we think that Ubuntu’s scheme of offering automatic partitioning along with other essentials couldn’t be simplified any further.
The Ubuntu installer now has an accessibility section, which is good, but it doesn’t have any explanation of what features such as Visual Alerts and Mouse Keys actually do. The installer checks for updates to itself and gives the option of installing a newer version. This requires a relaunch of the installer, and it might be a speed bump for new users. We like the choice between a basic installation or an extended one, and we chose the latter for extra apps. We also chose to install extra drivers and media codecs.
Linux Mint sticks to the fundamentals of the standard Ubuntu install but lacks the basic/full choice and accessibility options. Pop!_OS uses an older version of the Ubuntu installer. It doesn’t add any frills other than making encryption the default. As it is based on Ubuntu 22.04, there will be an upgrade soon.
Many distros have done away with detailed package selection as part of the install process. We feel that Ubuntu strikes the right balance, with full and basic options.
Some distros feature a first-run dialog, but MX Linux presents you with this before you begin installation. Upon booting the MX Linux installation medium, you’re greeted with an extensive welcome dialog packed with links to helpful resources. Like much of MX Linux, the installer is derived from the Mepis Linux one. It features a sidebar with a detailed description options.