Articles about Windows 11 alternative

Alpine Linux 3.22 is finally here (download), and if you’re tired of bloated operating systems like Windows 11, this release might be the breath of fresh air you’ve been waiting for. While Alpine is still a niche distribution, it’s slowly becoming a viable option for power users who want speed, control, and simplicity.

Despite being known as a lightweight distro often used in containers and servers, Alpine 3.22 brings some serious desktop upgrades. It now includes GNOME 48, KDE Plasma 6.3, and LXQt 2.2. Even the XFCE desktop got some love, with updated packages like xfce4-panel 4.20.4, thunar 4.20.3, and more. It’s clear Alpine is not just for the command-line crowd anymore.

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Memorial Day weekend is finally here! Most folks are obviously thinking about barbecues, beach trips, and most importantly, honoring members of the military that lost their lives defending this great nation.

However, there’s another way to celebrate freedom -- ditching Windows 11 for Linux. Yes, you can install something that actually respects your control and privacy. NixOS 25.05 “Warbler” has just landed (read full release notes here), and it’s a perfect excuse to finally make the switch.

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The latest version of Nobara has officially landed, and it’s packed with many thoughtful changes that continue to make it one of the most user-friendly Linux experiences around. With version 42, the Fedora-based distribution receives GNOME 48, KDE 6.3.4, Nvidia driver version 575.144, and Linux kernel 6.14.6.

One of the most noticeable changes, however, is the web browser switch. Firefox is surprisingly out, and Brave is now the default. That might sound controversial at first, but there’s actually solid reasoning behind it.

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There’s no shortage of Linux distributions trying to take on Windows nowadays, but ALT Workstation 11 actually makes a strong case for doing just that. Developed in Russia and now based on the stable “Salvia” branch of Platform 11, this fresh release swaps out the MATE desktop in favor of a full GNOME experience.

If you’ve been frustrated with Windows 11’s confusing UI, forced Microsoft accounts, or bloated system updates, ALT Workstation 11 offers a refreshing change. The operating system doesn’t just give you a usable desktop -- it gives you control. On first boot, a welcome tool called “ALT Tour” lets you pick your interface style, from a clean GNOME layout to a more traditional “Panel Mode” that echoes the look of older desktops. You can also pick your theme, choose accent colors, and tweak window button placement without any hacks or extensions.

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It’s raining Linux distributions! Earlier today, we told you about the release of Manjaro 25. And now, Fedora Linux 42 has officially arrived. If you’ve been looking for a fast, polished, and privacy-respecting replacement for Windows 11, this open source operating system could be the one.

This new Fedora release gives users a powerful and flexible desktop experience across multiple editions and devices. Whether you prefer GNOME or KDE, use x86 or Apple Silicon, or just want to ditch Microsoft’s operating system entirely, Fedora 42 definitely has something to offer.

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The developers behind Linux Lite have released version 7.4, and it looks awesome. If you’re stuck with aging hardware or just fed up with Windows 11, this might be the lightweight Linux distro you’ve been waiting for.

Linux Lite 7.4 is based on Ubuntu 24.04.2 and ships with Linux kernel 6.8.0-56. For users with special needs, there’s easy access to alternative kernels in the repository -- everything from 3.13 to 6.14. This makes the OS ideal for breathing new life into computers that Microsoft unfortunately left behind.

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There’s a new ISO out for EndeavourOS called “Mercury Neo,” and it’s the kind of Linux release that makes you seriously question why you’re still putting up with the annoying Windows 11. Let’s be honest, folks, Microsoft’s flagship product feels more like a roadblock than an operating system at this point. Mercury Neo, on the other hand, just quietly works.

This isn’t some big flashy overhaul, and that’s totally fine; it’s more of a quiet tune-up. Mercury Neo is a refreshed take on the Mercury release from February, and it brings some important fixes, updates, and improvements -- especially for folks doing new installs. If you’ve already got Mercury installed and you update regularly, you’re good. There's no need to reinstall anything.

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Just yesterday, Apple unveiled a new iPad Air. Today, the iPhone-maker announces two new exciting computers -- the MacBook Air laptop with M4 chip and a refreshed Mac Studio desktop powered by M4 Max and M3 Ultra. With more performance, better AI integration, and longer battery life (for the laptop), these Mac machines might be the perfect option for those fed up with Windows 11 and looking for a smooth, hassle-free computing experience.

The MacBook Air keeps its fanless design but now supports two external displays when closed. It gets a 12MP Center Stage camera, starts with 16GB of memory, and introduces a new sky blue color. Apple claims it’s twice as fast as the M1 version, with up to 18 hours of battery life. The price drops to $999 -- $100 less than before!

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The creators of Netrunner have just released a new iteration of their Debian-based Linux distribution, Netrunner 25 "Shockworm." This update offers enhanced security patches, a fresh desktop background, and an interface that's smoother than ever.

Netrunner 25 is built on Linux Kernel 6.1.0 for stability, with KDE Plasma 5.27.5 for a modern look and feel. It uses Qt 5.15.2 for backend operations, so everything should run without a hitch. On the software front, you get Firefox 128.6.0 ESR, LibreOffice 7.4.7.2, and VLC 3.0.21. The updated OS also comes with a new "Shockworm" themed wallpaper.

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Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, reflection, and perhaps, change. While most people are thinking about turkey and pie, maybe it’s time to reconsider something else this holiday season: your operating system. Windows 11 has its fair share of fans, but it’s also riddled with frustrations like mandatory updates and telemetry concerns. This Thanksgiving, why not switch to a more elegant, privacy-respecting alternative? Enter elementary OS 8.

Recently released, elementary OS 8 offers a fresh take on what an operating system can be. Designed with inclusivity, user empowerment, and privacy in mind, it’s a Linux-based system that feels modern and approachable. Unlike Windows 11, it doesn’t force features on you or leave you worried about invasive tracking. Instead, it gives you control while looking great doing it.

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The Solus team has officially launched Solus 4.6 “Convergence,” offering a refreshed Linux experience that brings desktop environment updates, kernel improvements, and enhanced hardware support. For those looking for an alternative to Windows 11, Solus 4.6 provides a compelling option, especially for users interested in performance, customization, and open-source software.

In this release, Solus includes updated ISOs with file names that now reflect the release channel and the date of generation. The OS continues to offer popular default applications, such as Firefox 131.0.3, LibreOffice 24.2.5.2, and Thunderbird 128.3.1, ensuring users have the essential tools out of the box. For multimedia, Budgie and GNOME editions come with Rhythmbox for audio and Celluloid for video playback, while XFCE features Parole and Plasma opts for Elisa and Haruna.

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It’s time to ditch Windows 11 and embrace Nitrux for a smoother, more streamlined experience without the bloat. Nitrux, built on a lightweight foundation, offers a sleek, efficient system tailored for modern users. With its unique NX Desktop, the OS is fast, responsive, and provides a visually appealing interface, making it a compelling alternative for those tired of Windows’ sluggish updates and resource-heavy performance.

Nitrux 3.7.0 has officially launched (download here), offering a variety of updates, bug fixes, and performance improvements, making it an ideal Linux distribution for users looking to switch from Microsoft's buggy OS. Built on the Liquorix kernel version 6.10.12-1 and the updated Debian base snapshot, this release brings several important package updates to ensure an improved user experience.

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MX Linux, one of the most popular Linux distributions, has released MX-23.4 (download here), marking the fourth refresh of its MX-23 release. This update brings various bug fixes, kernel updates, and application enhancements. As an ideal Linux distribution for users seeking an alternative to Windows 11, MX-23.4 continues to refine its performance while remaining user-friendly.

If you're already running MX-23, there's no need for a fresh installation -- the updated packages are available through regular update channels. Here’s why MX-23.4 is worth checking out, especially for those ready to make the switch from Windows 11.

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As more users look for alternatives to Microsoft Windows 11, SparkyLinux's latest update, Sparky 2024.08 is thankfully released. This Linux-based operating system has proven to be a compelling choice for those looking to ditch Windows.

This update enhances the Debian testing line-based semi-rolling distribution. It now features home partition encryption in its CLI Installer, the lightweight Midori browser as the default web browsing option, and regular package updates.

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The latest iteration of Deepin, V23 RC2, is here and the developers are looking for testers! As the final version of the Chinese-developed operating system approaches, many users are considering making the switch from Windows 11 to Deepin for its sleek design and user-friendly features.

One of the exciting new additions in Deepin V23 RC2 is the "Backup Update" toggle, which allows users to opt out of system backups when updating. This can be accessed directly from the Control Center. It’s a handy option, but remember to use it wisely! The release also introduces fresh system fonts like WenQuanYi Micro Hei and WenQuanYi dot-matrix Song, enhancing the visual appeal of the interface.

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