I Tested a Linux Distro That Promises Free, Built-in AI — And Things Got Weird

By Jack Wallen | October 14, 2025

ZDNET’s Key Takeaways

• Zorin OS saw over 100,000 downloads in two days after Windows 10’s release—a record-breaking surge.
• Linux Mint remains one of the most popular Linux distributions for its stability, privacy, and user-friendly Cinnamon desktop.
• Both distros are based on Ubuntu, offering strong hardware compatibility and long-term support.
• Zorin OS offers multiple desktop layouts and seamless Windows app alternatives, while Linux Mint prioritizes simplicity and privacy.
• Neither distro includes AI features or telemetry—perfect for privacy-conscious users.

If you’re staring down the end of Windows 10 support and wondering where to land next, you’re not alone. Two Linux heavyweights—Linux Mint and Zorin OS—have been climbing the ranks fast. But which one deserves your hard drive?

I spent serious time with both. Here’s what happened.

Linux Mint: Who Is It For?

Linux Mint is Ubuntu-based, which means it rides on a rock-solid foundation with excellent hardware recognition thanks to Ubuntu’s Hardware Enablement (HWE) kernel. Translation? It runs beautifully on both ancient laptops and brand-new rigs.

Out of the box, it ships with the Cinnamon desktop—a layout so familiar it’ll feel like home if you’ve ever used Windows. Panel at the bottom, Start menu, system tray—no learning curve here.

But here’s the kicker: Linux Mint doesn’t track you. No telemetry. No ads. No sneaky AI features. Just a clean, private, efficient OS.

Performance-wise, it’s a beast:

• Uses minimal RAM compared to Windows
• Optimized for SSDs with TRIM support
• Offers multiple power modes
• Supports theming, applets, and advanced workspace management

Who should use Linux Mint?

• Windows 10 refugees who want zero friction
• Users with older or newer PCs
• Privacy-first users
• Anyone who wants long-term, stable support

Zorin OS: Who Is It For?

Zorin OS also runs on Ubuntu, but it’s built for showmanship and simplicity. When Windows 10 ended support, Zorin OS downloads exploded—over 100,000 in 48 hours. People noticed.

What makes it special? Choice.

Out of the box, you can pick from four desktop layouts—Windows-style, Mac-like, or something in between. Want more? The $47 Pro version unlocks six additional layouts, including a MacOS Monterey theme that’s eerily accurate.

And switching layouts? One click with the Zorin Appearance tool. Try doing that in Windows without reinstalling.

But Zorin’s real magic trick is Windows app redirection. Download a .exe file? Zorin OS intercepts it and suggests Linux-native alternatives. Trying to install MS Office? It’ll recommend LibreOffice instead. It’s like having a helpful Linux guardian angel.

Other killer features:

• Zorin Connect – Sync your Android phone seamlessly
• Flatpak & Snap integration – Access thousands of apps easily
• Pre-installed gaming tools – Steam, Lutris, and more ready to go
• Built-in window snapping – Like Windows Snap, but better
• Zero data collection – No AI, no telemetry, no BS

Who should use Zorin OS?

• Users who want a polished, modern look
• People who switch between Windows and Linux often
• Android users who want deep phone integration
• Gamers and app enthusiasts

The AI Promise That Went Sideways

Here’s where things got weird.

I recently tested a new Linux distro that advertised “free, built-in AI”—a tempting pitch for anyone curious about machine learning without the cloud costs. But instead of helpful features, I got:

• A sluggish desktop (AI processes hogging RAM)
• Constant pop-ups asking for “feedback” on AI suggestions
• A built-in assistant that kept mishearing commands and launching random apps
• Mysterious network activity I couldn’t explain

After two days, I nuked it. The AI wasn’t smart—it was annoying. And it raised serious privacy red flags.

That’s why I appreciate distros like Linux Mint and Zorin OS even more. They prove you don’t need invasive AI to have a powerful, modern OS.

So, Which One Is for You?

Here’s the no-BS breakdown:

Choose Linux Mint if you want:

• A stable, privacy-focused OS
• A classic Windows-like desktop
• Minimal RAM usage
• Zero learning curve

Choose Zorin OS if you want:

• A sleek, modern interface with layout choices
• Seamless Windows app alternatives
• Android phone integration
• A bit more flair and flexibility

Honestly? You can’t go wrong with either. Both are Ubuntu-based, both are privacy-respecting, and both will make your Windows 10 PC feel reborn.

If you want understated elegance, go Mint.
If you want showmanship with substance, go Zorin.

Also read:

• I Ditched Linux for Windows 11—And Found 9 Serious Problems
• How I Speed Up My Linux System for Free While RAM Prices Are Out of Control
• The Best Linux Distributions for Beginners: Expert Tested and Reviewed
• How to Use the Zorin OS Windows App Support Feature
• How to Choose the Right Linux Desktop Distribution for You

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