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 areseveral Linux distributionsthat are designed to mimic the look, feel, and even the workflow of macOS. So, here are three suchdistrosthat let you enjoy the Apple aesthetic on your Linux computer.

3Elementary OS

When it comes to Linux distros that are similar to macOS,Elementary OSis 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 itshuman interface guidelines, providing an experience consistent with the rest of the operating system. However, it has also started integratingFlathubby 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 ofMission 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 onUbuntu’s Long Term Supportreleases and comes with a reasonable selection of apps pre-installed to make it easier to get started with the operating system.

Download Elementary OS

2Zorin OS Pro

Zorin OSis widely consideredan 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.

Download Zorin OS Pro

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,Deepinis 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’salleged links to a state-backed entityhave 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.

1Ubuntu Budgie

As the name suggests,Ubuntu Budgieis a flavor or spin on the popularUbuntu Linux distributionand 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’re able to 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 theHot Corners featurein 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.

Download 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 areseveral ways to try a Linux distro, includingrunning 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. TheRaspberry Pi Imageris 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’re able to use a Flatpak package calledImpressionto create a bootable USB drive on a Linux machine.

Before you move to the actual installation, make sure you havebacked 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 onhow to install Linuxfor help.