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Zorin OS
What Zorin OS is
Zorin OS is a Linux-based operating system for desktop and laptop computers, positioned as a familiar option for people moving from Windows or macOS. Its free Core edition includes standard apps and four basic desktop layouts; Zorin Appearance lets users change the layout, and the built-in Software store provides access to thousands of apps. It supports APT, Flatpak, Snap, .deb packages, AppImage and Web Apps, with optional Wine compatibility for some Windows .exe and .msi apps. LibreOffice is included for Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365 documents. Zorin Connect links an Android device over an encrypted local network for syncing notifications and messages, transferring files, controlling the computer and controlling media. The system includes NVIDIA, AMD and Intel graphics drivers and game optimizations, and names Steam, Epic Games, itch.io, GOG and Lutris among its gaming options. Zorin OS says it is open source, does not collect personal data and receives security updates. Version 18.1 is based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS and receives software updates and security patches until 1 June 2029.
Who it suits
Zorin OS may suit people looking for a Linux desktop with familiar layouts, standard apps and support for several app formats. Its live USB and dual-boot deployment options may also suit people who want to try or install it alongside another system.
What it does well
- Core edition is free and includes standard apps.
- Supports several app formats and Web Apps.
- LibreOffice handles Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365 documents.
- Zorin Connect links Android devices over an encrypted local network.
- Security updates and patches are listed until 1 June 2029.
What to know first
- Future major versions must be purchased separately.
- Wine compatibility applies to some Windows apps.
- Requires a 64-bit x86 Intel or AMD CPU.
Plans
| Plan | Billed and limits | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Zorin OS 18.1 Core | Free · Standard apps · 4 basic desktop layouts | Free |
| Zorin OS 18.1 Education | Free · Educational software for schools and students | Free |
| Zorin OS 18.1 Pro | One-time payment · One computer for business or organizational use · personal copies may be installed on multiple computers · future major versions sold separately | On request |
As zorin.com lists them, read 10 Oct 2026. The maker's own page has the final word.
Verdict
Zorin OS offers a free desktop edition, flexible app installation options and tools for Windows-app compatibility and Android connection. Check the hardware requirements and Pro upgrade terms if those matter to your choice.
Facts from Zorin OS's own pages
- Apps
- Zorin OS includes standard apps and provides access to thousands of apps through its built-in Software store. · zorin.com, 10 Oct 2026
- Company
- The About page identifies the company as Zorin OS Technologies Limited, incorporated in Ireland, with an address in Dublin 8. · zorin.com, 10 Oct 2026
- Desktop layouts
- Zorin Appearance lets users change the desktop layout, and Pro includes 12 layouts in total. · zorin.com, 10 Oct 2026
- Gaming
- The system includes NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel graphics drivers and game optimizations, and the site lists Steam, Epic Games, itch.io, GOG, and Lutris. · zorin.com, 10 Oct 2026
- Hardware
- The site says Zorin OS is streamlined to work on computers as old as 15 years. · zorin.com, 10 Oct 2026
- Office compatibility
- Zorin OS comes with LibreOffice for viewing, creating, and editing Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365 documents. · zorin.com, 10 Oct 2026
- Phone integration
- Zorin Connect can sync notifications and messages, transfer files, control the computer, and control media between the desktop and an Android device over an encrypted local network connection. · zorin.com, 10 Oct 2026
- Pro edition limit
- A Pro purchase covers the current major version and its point releases; future major versions must be purchased separately, with discounted upgrades available. · zorin.com, 10 Oct 2026
- Pro support
- Each Zorin OS Pro copy includes email technical support from the Zorin team for setting up one computer. · zorin.com, 10 Oct 2026
- Purpose
- Zorin OS is a Linux-based alternative to Windows and macOS designed to be familiar, simple to use, secure, and privacy-respecting. · zorin.com, 10 Oct 2026
- Security and privacy
- Zorin OS says it does not collect personal data, is open source, and receives security updates; its Zorin Connect connection is encrypted and local. · zorin.com, 10 Oct 2026
- System base and support
- Zorin OS 18.1 is based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS and is listed as supported with software updates and security patches until 1 June 2029. · zorin.com, 10 Oct 2026
- Windows apps
- The site says users can run many Windows apps by opening their .exe or .msi installer files. · zorin.com, 10 Oct 2026
Where Zorin OS stands on Freedom251
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