Linux Mint 21.1

I've likely used more operating systems than 99% of my readers. I cut my teeth on IBM 360/OS in the 70s. Since then, I've used every Apple and Microsoft operating system you've ever heard of, and many you've never known, such as A/UX and Microsoft Xenix. I've also used well over 100 different Unix and Linux distributions. So, when I say Linux Mint 21.1, the latest long-term support (LTS) version of Linux Mint, is not just the best Linux desktop, but the best desktop, it means something.

Also: 8 things you can do with Linux that you can't do with MacOS or Windows

The only way you'll know if it works well for you, of course, is to try it yourself. Here's how to first give Linux Mint a spin. It's simple to try it. And, then, if you like what you see, I also explain how to replace Windows with Mint.

• Materials needed:Windows PC, Internet connection, and a DVD-RW or USB Stick with 3 or more GBs of storage.

• Estimated time: (2 hours).Estimated cost: $5

How to try Linux Mint

1. Download a copy of Linux Mint

Unlike other operating systems, Linux distros like Mint make it easy to give them a test run before installing them. 

To do this, first, you must download a copy of Linux Mint. Unlike Windows, when there's only one desktop interface, you get your choice of three different Mint desktops. These are MATE, Xfce, and its default desktop, Cinnamon. If you have a 2012 or newer PC, go with Cinnamon. If you have an older machine, try Mate, and if your PC is really old or doesn't have much horsepower, use Xfce.

Also: Want to save your aging computer? Try these 5 Linux distributions

Depending on your internet speed, downloading Mint could take a long time. The distribution now weighs in at 2.5 gigabytes. 

2. Make sure your copy of Mint is the real thing

Next, you should make sure that the image file you just downloaded is the real McCoy. You do this by downloading the sha256sum.txt and sha256sum.txt.gpg files. You should be able to find them in the same place you downloaded the ISO image. When you download them, do it with your browser's "right-click->Save Link As