Notes on Zorin OS vs. Pop OS

Introduction

• Zorin OS and Pop OS are innovative Linux distributions based on Ubuntu, offering unique user experiences.
• Both have made significant impacts in the Linux community, attracting hundreds of thousands of users.

User Interface

Zorin OS

• Desktop Environment: Modified Gnome desktop.
• Design: Clean and visually appealing, with a Windows 7-like layout.
  • Organized menu with quick access to pinned apps.
  • Built-in quick search feature enhances productivity.
  • Offers 6 different themes for customization.
• Layouts: Four pre-configured layouts available.
• Overall: User-friendly and aesthetically pleasing.

Pop OS

• Desktop Environment: Cosmic desktop, based on Gnome 42.
• Design: Streamlined with a large bottom bar for favorites, running apps, workspace switcher, and search launcher.
• Functionality: Isolates different operations for a distraction-free environment.
• Customization: Extensive options, especially for tiling windows, enhancing productivity for multitasking.

Conclusion on UI

• Both Zorin and Pop OS offer impressive user interfaces, enhancing productivity.

Software Availability

Pop OS

• Access to extensive Ubuntu repositories and traditional .deb packages.
• Pop Shop: Well-organized, allows easy installation of .deb, Flatpak, and Snap apps.
• Offers better compatibility with traditional .deb applications, appealing to users preferring them over Snap.

Zorin OS

• Also based on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, allowing installation from the same repositories.
• Software Store: Clean, organized with support for installation of Windows apps via .exe files.
• Provides Flatpak integration and Snap support, ensuring excellent software availability.

Conclusion on Software

• Zorin OS excels in software availability and usability, particularly for Windows apps installation.

Performance

• Both distributions optimized for performance, built on the same base.
• Pop OS offers hardware-specific ISO images for NVIDIA and AMD.
• Zorin OS installs NVIDIA proprietary drivers automatically.
• Both systems provide noticeable performance improvements for users transitioning from Windows.

Stability and Usability

• Both distributions are stable, with a 5-year support period, and all essentials included out-of-the-box.
• Easy installation process for beginners (15-20 minutes).

Gaming Performance

• Both Zorin and Pop OS support gaming, able to run numerous titles, including Windows-exclusive games via Steam Play and Wine.
• Zorin allows direct installation of Windows games, while Pop OS optimizes gaming performance with appropriate drivers.

Conclusion

• Zorin OS slightly edges out Pop OS in various categories, especially for beginners and usability of its software store.
• Both distributions are high quality and offer great computing experiences. Users are encouraged to try both in live sessions to find their preference.

Final Thoughts

• Zorin OS wins by a slight margin, but both systems are viable options for users.
• Encouragement to explore top Linux distributions for 2023.