Are you a Macbook user who wants to know the best Linux for old Macbooks? This post is for you. Apple’s macOS operating system is highly resilient, and its MacBooks are equally so. However, there may be times when you want to avoid utilizing the default operating system, preferring something alternative that better suits your needs.
While Windows may theoretically be installed, you may be better suited to switching to Linux for an enhanced user experience. Not to worry, we’ve compiled a list of the best Linux for old Macbooks.
If you have an older MacBook that is laggy and slow, think about running Linux on it. Linux is a free and open-source operating system that may be run on virtually any hardware, even old MacBooks.
Here are the 3 best Linux for old Macbooks for Mac users to install on their Macs or specialized Linux machines.
Factors for Selecting the Best Linux for Old Macbook
MacBooks are fantastic devices, but they are not impervious to aging. Your MacBook may become slower, unresponsive, and more prone to malfunctions.
You may also discover that the most recent macOS upgrades are incompatible with your device or that some of your favorite applications are no longer supported.
Apple typically offers security updates for the most recent three macOS releases, although this rule isn’t carved in stone, and some macOS versions may be discontinued early.
If you find yourself in this scenario, you have a few alternatives. You have two options: buy a new MacBook, which may be expensive, or try to update your old one, which might be complicated and risky.
There are a few factors to consider while selecting the best version of Linux for old Macbooks:
Previous Linux Experience
If you have some previous experience with Linux distributions, you can choose the one with which you are most familiar. If this is the first time that you are using a Linux distribution, select one with intuitive user interfaces and assistance for a wide range of apps and tools.
Community Assistance and Documentation
Linux distributions with solid support from the community are expected. That implies that if you want software updates or other operating system assistance, you will likely obtain it from the community.
Hardware Prerequisites
The version of the operating system needs to be appropriate for the device you’re using. If you have a 64-bit system, for example, you should utilize an operating system that offers additional support for 64-bit computers. Check to see if the Linux distribution you intend to get supports the hardware on your system.
Usage
When selecting a Linux distribution for your MacBook, keep the purpose in mind. If you intend to use it for gaming, check if the distribution comes pre-installed with top-market games. If you want to use it for daily work, choose one that offers reliable assistance for various hardware devices and apps.
The User Interface
You should also think about the user interface of a Linux distribution. Some distributions offer user interfaces that are straightforward for all types of users. On the other hand, some Linux distributions provide a command line interface (CLI) that may need help understanding.
Software Assistance
The number of apps supported by a Linux distribution may be used to assess its support. If you intend to use your macOS device for a variety of functions, select an operating system with a large number of relevant applications.
Reliability and Efficiency
The number of users supported by a Linux distribution determines its reliability and efficiency. If you use your MacBook Pro for a few tasks, select an operating system with a tiny user base. You may also choose a Linux distribution tailored to the particular devices.
List of 3 Best Linux For Old MacBook
Outlined below is the of the 3 best Linux for old MacBook based on these criteria:
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Linux Mint
Linux Mint, one of the most popular Linux distributions, has been in development for some years, providing customers with a reliable and compelling alternative. Its developers are not seeking to reinvent an operating system or disrupt the market but rather to give Linux users a functional and simple-to-use application.
Cinnamon, its more conventional and conservative desktop environment, is similar to Windows in specific ways. It includes a more curated and simplified software selection and a unique update manager that allows you to decide which updates to install.
Linux Mint provides access to more than sixty thousand software packages and seven thousand eight hundred games, and when you start your computer, a choice appears asking which operating system you wish to run.
Most MacBooks are compatible with Linux Mint, and no additional drivers or firmware are typically required. Linux Mint also performs well on older MacBooks with at least 1 GB of RAM and 15 GB of storage space.
To install Linux Mint on your old MacBook, download the ISO image file from the official website and then use a program like Etcher or Rufus to make a USB drive that can be booted. Then, while powering on your MacBook, boot from the USB device by pressing down the Option key and following the installation prompts on the screen.
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Elementary OS
Elementary OS is a lovely and elegant Linux distribution inspired by macOS. It offers a clean and straightforward desktop environment called Pantheon that includes a dock, a top panel, and an app launcher.
It also offers a meticulously curated and polished software collection, as well as a pay-what-you-want mechanism for purchasing programs from its app store. It is compatible with most MacBooks, albeit some components, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, may require the installation of extra drivers or firmware.
The seventh edition of elementary OS is used by many individuals who desire to switch their Mac’s operating system. It is a competent and legitimate alternative for Windows and macOS.
One of its most appealing features is that it closely resembles the design and feel of macOS, making it an excellent alternative if you want to maintain Apple’s design.
It has an extensive list of valuable programs, including email, a music player, a web browser, a photo viewer, and a built-in calendar. Downloading elementary OS is not free, unlike other Linux distributions. However, you are free to pay whatever you choose.
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Ubuntu
Ubuntu is among the best Linux for old Macbooks. It is one of the world’s most prevalent and frequently used Linux distributions. It is based on Debian, another well-known and reliable distribution.
Ubuntu is well-known for its ease of use, simplicity, and dependability. It offers a contemporary and stylish desktop environment called GNOME that is similar to macOS in specific ways. It also features a vast and diversified software library, as well as a long-term support (LTS) version with security updates for five years.
It is compatible with most MacBooks, while some components, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, may require the installation of extra drivers or firmware. Ubuntu also performs well on older MacBooks with at least 2 GB of RAM and 25 GB of storage space.
You must first make a bootable USB drive with a program like Etcher or Rufus to install Ubuntu on your old MacBook. The ISO image file may be downloaded from the Ubuntu website.
Following that, you must hold down the option key while starting your MacBook to boot from the USB device, and you must then adhere to the installation prompts displayed on the screen.
SEE ALSO: Videos Not Playing on Macbook: How to Fix?
Conclusion
There are several benefits to running Linux distributions on your old MacBook. One of them is that they are speedier and have fewer bugs than Windows OS. Also, if you want an operating system free of tracking and advertisements, consider using a Linux distribution.
Linux distributions are also more secure than any other operating system available. If security is the most crucial factor to you, transitioning to Linux distros should be your priority.
It’s also simple to change your operating system and personalize it in various ways without reinstalling it. It’s also worth noting that you can use a Linux distribution to access any aspect of your MacBook. As a result, working with apps and managing your data will be much easier.
So, check the list of the best Linux for old MacBooks and choose the one that best fits your needs.