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For most new installations, download Zorin OS 18.1 rather than Zorin OS 17.3. Zorin OS 17.3 is still supported through June 1, 2027, but 18.1 is newer and supported through June 1, 2029. Both offer a familiar, Windows-like desktop; neither is Windows, and Windows app compatibility is not guaranteed. If you specifically need the 17 series, choose its final release, 17.3—not the original Zorin OS 17 image.
For most people, the free Core edition is the right first download. Test it from a USB drive before installing, especially if you rely on particular apps or have older or unusual hardware.
What is Zorin OS?
Zorin OS is a Linux distribution based on Ubuntu, designed to make the move from Windows or macOS more approachable. Its desktop can use familiar arrangements such as a bottom taskbar and a Start-menu-style application launcher. That describes the interface, not an identical copy of Windows: Zorin uses Linux software repositories, system tools, drivers and file-system conventions.
The official Zorin OS site offers current downloads and describes the available desktop experience. You can use Zorin without paying for Pro: Core is free, while Pro adds layouts, bundled software, artwork and installation support.
#1 Best Overall
- Intel Core i5-1335U Processor (12M Cache, 12 Threads, up to 4.6 GHz) - 256GB Solid State Drive - 16GB DDR4 SDRAM
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- 720p HD Webcam with Privacy Shutter. Integrated Microphone - Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC (2x2) 8265, Bluetooth Version 4.2
- I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, 1x USB 3.1 Type-C 3.1, Headphone/Mic Combo Port, 4-in-1 Card Reader, HDMI, Kensington Mini-Lock Slot
- Linux Mint (Cinnamon) 64-Bit - Keyboard with Full NumberPad - Fast Charging
Zorin OS 17.3 or 18.1?
| Version | What to know | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Zorin OS 17.3 | Final point release in the 17 series; based on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, with Linux kernel 6.8. Supported through June 1, 2027. | Someone with a specific reason to use the 17 series, or an existing installation they are keeping current. |
| Zorin OS 18.1 | Newer major release, based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS. Supported through June 1, 2029. | Most people making a fresh installation who want the longer support window and newer base system. |
Zorin OS 17 was first released on December 20, 2023; 17.1 followed on March 7, 2024, 17.2 on September 19, 2024, and 17.3 on March 26, 2025. If you need version 17, use 17.3 rather than an older image. The official technical details list release and support information. Zorin also documents an upgrade route from Zorin OS 17 Core, Pro and Education to Zorin OS 18 using the Upgrade Zorin OS app; back up first and follow the official upgrade guidance.
Choose an edition
- Core: The free, general-purpose edition and the best starting point for most users. It includes the standard desktop experience and layouts.
- Pro: A paid edition with additional layouts—including Windows 11-like and Windows Classic-like options—bundled creative and productivity applications, extra artwork and installation support. It is a one-time purchase for that major version, not a subscription; a future major version may require a separate purchase, potentially at an upgrade discount. Core already provides the essentials, so Pro is optional. See Zorin OS Pro details and the purchase page for current terms.
- Education: A free edition intended for schools and students, with educational software and games.
- Lite: Uses the XFCE desktop and may suit a lower-powered computer or someone who specifically prefers XFCE. Zorin says Lite will be available through the 17 and 18 series, with the official edition planned to sunset from Zorin OS 19 onward. “Old PC” alone does not guarantee Lite is the right choice: test your hardware using a live USB first. See Zorin’s Lite information.
System requirements and hardware caveats
Zorin OS 17.3’s published minimums are a 64-bit Intel or AMD processor with two cores at 1 GHz, 2 GB RAM and an 800 × 600 display. Storage minimums are 15 GB for Core, 35 GB for Education and 45 GB for Pro. These are installation minimums, not a promise of a fast experience; actual performance depends on the computer and workload. Check the current system requirements before downloading.
Zorin OS 17.3 is for 64-bit x86 Intel or AMD computers. It is not a native option for Apple Silicon Macs; Zorin mentions virtualization software such as UTM as a possible way to try it, but that is not the same as a normal native installation. Intel Macs may be more suitable, but hardware should still be tested. Surface devices may need additional setup. Do not assume ARM computers, Chromebooks, Raspberry Pi devices or unusual hardware are supported without checking Zorin’s documentation.
Rank #2
- Intel Core i5-10210U (up to 4.2GHz) - 1TB PCIe NVMe + 1TB HDD - 32GB DDR4 SDRAM
- 17.3" HD+ (1600x900) Display, Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Built in HD 720p Webcam with Microphone - Bluetooth Version4.2
- I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.1 (Data Only), 1x USB 2.0, 1x HDMI, 1x Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack
- Linux Mint Cinnamon 64-Bit - 6-Row Keyboard w/ Full Numberpad
How Windows-like is it—and will Windows apps work?
The familiar elements are the taskbar-style panel, application launcher, window controls, desktop icons, file manager and graphical settings and software tools. Pro adds more layout choices. But Windows drivers do not install directly, Windows Store apps do not run natively, and Microsoft account integration and system administration are different. Windows-specific business tools, hardware utilities and some games may not work.
Zorin’s Windows App Support uses Wine, a compatibility layer, to run some Windows applications and installers such as .exe and .msi. It does not make Zorin a complete Windows replacement. Compatibility depends on the particular app, version and workflow. The official Windows App Support guide warns that not every Windows application is fully compatible.
Use this order before relying on a Windows program:
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- [LEGACY SERIAL PORT] Features a native RS-232 Serial Port, HDMI, and USB 3.0. Essential for connecting directly to industrial machinery, CNCs, and automotive diagnostic tools without unreliable adapter
- Check for a native Linux version in the Software store or from the developer.
- If there is none, consider a suitable Linux alternative.
- If the Windows application is essential, check compatibility for the exact app and features you need before replacing Windows.
- Test it on a live or spare installation where possible. Do not assume that success with one version guarantees success after an update.
To try a trusted installer, download its original .exe or .msi file, open Files and go to Downloads, then double-click it. If asked, choose Install Windows App Support and continue through the app’s installer. You can also install support from Zorin Menu → System Tools → Windows App Support. Be particularly cautious about depending on Adobe Creative Cloud, desktop Microsoft Office features, specialist accounting or CAD tools, VPNs requiring Windows drivers, games with aggressive anti-cheat, and programs tied to Microsoft Store or Windows services. For those, verify the exact requirements before switching.
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Download and test from USB before installing
Start at the official download page. For a typical home PC, select Core unless you have a specific reason for another edition. If you deliberately need Zorin OS 17, obtain its latest 17-series image, 17.3, from the official source rather than an old 17.0 image.
A live USB lets you try Zorin without installing it to the internal drive. Zorin’s installation guide calls for a USB drive of at least 4 GB for Core or Lite, and 16 GB for Pro, Pro Lite or Education. Writing the image will erase the USB drive, so copy any files on it elsewhere first. Use a USB-writing program such as balenaEtcher, which Zorin’s installation instructions identify as an example. If a SHA256 checksum is provided, verifying the downloaded ISO can help catch a corrupted download.
Rank #4
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- Back up important files before making installation media or changing disk partitions.
- Download the chosen ISO from Zorin and, where available, its checksum.
- Use the USB-writing tool to write the ISO image to the flash drive.
- Restart the PC and open its firmware boot menu. Depending on the manufacturer, it may be called Boot Menu, Boot Override or UEFI Boot. Select the USB drive.
- Choose the live-session option, such as Try Zorin OS, rather than starting installation immediately.
In the live session, check Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, sound, brightness, touchpad, external displays, webcam, suspend and resume, printers and any essential peripherals. Also check that your required applications and workflows are viable. A machine meeting the minimum specifications may still feel slow, and live-session behavior is a useful check—not a guarantee that every feature will behave identically after installation.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Install Zorin OS: dual boot or replace Windows
When you are satisfied with the test, launch Install Zorin OS from the live desktop. The installer asks about keyboard, timezone, account and updates, and presents disk-installation choices. The precise labels can vary. The important decision is whether to keep Windows alongside Zorin or erase the target disk.
- Install alongside Windows (dual boot): Keeps both systems so you can choose one when starting the computer. Back up first, make sure there is enough free or unallocated storage, and keep a Windows recovery method. Partition changes can make Windows or files inaccessible if something goes wrong. If BitLocker or device encryption is enabled, save the recovery key before changing partitions. Secure Boot and firmware storage settings vary; do not disable security features automatically. Follow the relevant Windows and Zorin guidance for your configuration.
- Erase disk and install Zorin: Makes Zorin the main operating system on the selected disk. This can remove Windows, recovery partitions and personal data. Use it only after a verified backup and after confirming that required apps, games and devices work well enough in Zorin.
- Manual partitioning: Offers more control but is for people who understand partitions, boot mode and disk layout. If you are unsure, do not experiment on a drive containing important data.
If offered third-party drivers, including a proprietary NVIDIA driver, choose according to your hardware and needs. Complete installation, restart when prompted and remove the USB drive when instructed. After the first boot, connect to the internet and install available system updates.
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If something goes wrong
- The computer starts Windows instead: Restart and choose the USB or Zorin entry in the firmware boot menu. For an installed system, check UEFI boot entries and boot order; menu names and keys differ by manufacturer.
- Black screen or graphics trouble: Try the installer’s graphics-safe option if available. For applicable NVIDIA hardware, the proprietary-driver option may help. Avoid changing unrelated firmware settings at random.
- No Wi-Fi: Use Ethernet or USB tethering temporarily if available, then install the appropriate driver or updates. Check the exact wireless hardware against Zorin’s support information.
- The installer cannot see the disk: Check the machine’s storage configuration, including RAID or Intel RST settings, and whether encryption or firmware choices affect disk visibility. Do not change storage modes without understanding how Windows is configured; a careless change can prevent Windows from starting.
- Windows is missing from the boot menu after installation: Do not immediately reinstall or erase partitions. Check UEFI boot entries and use Windows recovery tools if needed.
- USB installation fails: Recreate the USB, verify the ISO if a checksum is available, try another flash drive or USB port, and make sure the computer is booting in the intended UEFI mode.
Who should download Zorin OS 17.3?
Choose 17.3 if you have a specific compatibility or deployment reason to remain on the 17 series and are comfortable with support ending June 1, 2027. For a fresh installation without such a constraint, 18.1’s later support deadline makes it the more sensible default. If you depend on Windows-only software, specialist hardware or particular games, test those exact needs first; dual booting or staying with Windows may be safer than replacing it.
For most curious Windows users, the practical path is to download Zorin OS 18.1 Core, test it from USB, and install only after confirming hardware and application needs. Choose Pro for its additional software, layouts or support—not because it is required for a Windows-like desktop. Consider Lite if a lighter XFCE desktop suits your computer, keeping its planned end after the 18 series in mind.
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