I have tested almost all major Debian and Arch variants, as well as Suse and a few others. Most recently, I used Mint LMDE for a long time because of its stability and security.
While waiting for the new LMDE version, I came across Anduin OS. Out of boredom, I installed it on my ASUS PC, which was built in 2013. I was very surprised to find that the installation worked right away and everything ran smoothly. Since I was used to the Cinnamon desktop from Mint and LMDE, I easily installed it via Synaptic. I had the choice between the “normal” Cinnamon desktop and the Ubuntu variant, both of which worked right away.
The software selection is excellent and significantly more up-to-date than, for example, Mint or LMD. If that's not enough, you can also install Flatpaks; Snap is not set by default. To be on the safe side, I also tested Anduin on an 8-year-old Acer notebook and a friend's Medion NB, and everything worked perfectly.
I've been using Anduin 1.36 for about 3 weeks now (home office, internet, video editing) and will stick with it; if any problems do arise, I'll post an update.
Looks and operates well on a VM or USB Drive. Very quick when opening programs seems very responsive. Looks very similar to another operating system so it would be great for those new to Linux. The UI is simplified enough not to overwhelm but functional enough to find all the apps on the system fairly easily. However, I did encounter problems with the 1.4 version. When I tried to install it on an external drive the installer script keeps crashing after partitioning the external drive and does not install the OS. I have tried to install using a Ventoy USB and a bootable stand alone USB with no success. I tried using an External M.2 SSD enclosure, a 2.5" SATA SSDs and still all of the attempts failed at the same point. I did manage to install the 1.36 version but their is no upgrade path to the 1.4 version at the time i posted this.
I use back in lat 90`s Amiga A3000, Opensuse,Fedora and Debian flagship.I`m using first time Linux again in 2024 because Windows11 and I try Anduin OS, I left a message in Anduin forum about the problem. The problem was the password was to long to connect to WIFI it auto restard and I try again . Yes my password is over 60 with names numbers special signs... I have 10 devices to change my wifi new password no way. My password works on Fedora.Debian .... only one is not working is Anduin OS. Well I have nothing to lose about Anduin OS.
Initially, I was impressed with AnduinOS' ease and speed of setup.
However, my enthusiasm waned after spending two days trying to get the
fingerprint sensor working.
Despite my best efforts, I couldn't seem to configure it properly, which
left me feeling frustrated. I'm pretty sure this is not convincing any windows users and definitely not a linux user.
Conclusion: if you are new to linux there is no ideal way to switch over. The linux experience is what it is and anduinOS doesn't solve it.
Ive been testing and running many different Linux versions for years and this is a very solid version and it is extremely solid for a person if they are into gaming.
I'm really looking forward to how this Linux version will evolve over the coming days, weeks, months and years! :)
You can very much customize it to look like anything you like.
Want a Mac, Windows? Or any look it has the tools... Very impressed!
*Only thing I am not a fan of is Flatpak I still think its best to avoid them if you can and use .deb packages personally!*
Like Ubuntu but hate Snaps? Then this is the distro for you. I think that some people may be a bit put off by the UI - it's clearly modeled after Windows 11, but in an intelligent way that still feels like Linux. I installed it fully expecting to use it for a few days and then go back to Endeavour, but several weeks later, it's become my daily driver. I've really enjoyed it - performance has been great, as has stability. Seriously, check this out, especially if you're a serial distro hopper - I think you'll be pleased and may find yourself sticking around longer than expected.
A very well-finished distribution, stable and compatible with most productivity software.
A perfect workflow for those migrating from Windows, it leaves nothing to be desired. I work with Microsoft systems and had no problems migrating or adapting. I've used KDE my entire life, and with AnduinOS, I permanently migrated to Gnome.
I had no difficulty connecting my cloud storage services.
The distribution has a script that upgrades from one version to another without the need for reinstallation.
The only thing I'm missing is a fingerprint reader for screen unlocking.
After 20 years of using Linux, this is the first time I've reviewed a distribution because I truly feel safe and comfortable using it on a daily basis.
AnduinOS especially version 1.35 It's the easiest and most basic thing to use I've ever come across.You can use it even if you have never used a computer if you have used a smartphone, then you can work on AnduinOS 1.3 /1.35 . You are migrating from Windows to Linux but you are afraid to type text commands in the terminal this is the right choice for you.Installing programs from the store located on the taskbar is so simple and intuitive that even a child could handle it without any problem.The store design is graphic, you choose the desired program and simply click on the install button.If you know the name of the program you want to install, you don't need to search through the categories. In the top left corner, there is an icon with a magnifying glass. Click on it and start typing the name. The store will automatically find it for you.The only feature that I didn't like and have as a remark is that when you install the program in the store, you have to click the open button to make the icon appear in the operating system.But I don't think this is a problem, it's just a little annoying.The distribution is also extremely suitable for older people who have difficulty using a computer.Realistically, it's easier to use than Microsoft windows.
After years of searching for a reliable and stable alternative to Windows, I’ve finally found a Linux distribution that truly impresses—Anduin OS! This distro is a game-changer, delivering a polished and robust experience that rivals Windows in both functionality and aesthetics. Keep up the fantastic work, developers! Anduin OS runs flawlessly on my i7 processor with 32GB of RAM, showcasing its ability to handle modern hardware with ease. Even more impressive is its performance within VirtualBox on the same machine, where it operates with remarkable efficiency and responsiveness. For anyone seeking a Linux distro that combines stability, versatility, and a user-friendly interface, Anduin OS is a standout choice.
One of the highlights of Anduin OS is its interface, which feels strikingly similar to Windows 11’s modern design. The sleek, intuitive layout makes it an easy transition for Windows users looking to explore Linux without feeling lost. What sets Anduin OS apart is its flexibility—you can customize the interface by moving the taskbar or panel to the top left or right, offering a level of personalization that Windows 11 doesn’t provide. This feature enhances usability, allowing users to tailor the desktop to their workflow or aesthetic preferences. Whether you prefer a centered taskbar like Windows or a more traditional Linux layout, Anduin OS accommodates both with ease.
Performance is where Anduin OS truly shines. On my i7 system with 32GB of RAM, it handles everything I throw at it—web browsing, video editing, coding, and even running resource-intensive applications—without breaking a sweat.
Beyond its technical prowess, Anduin OS offers a refreshing take on what a Linux distribution can be.
Everything works right out of the box after quick and easy installation. And the ISO required to install Anduin OS comes with the local language already included. After that, you forget about the OS because it runs smoothly in the background, and before you know it, the test has turned into a long-term use. To my great surprise, the creator of this system, Anduin Xue, has also solved a problem that unfortunately plagues many distros: the sound is consistent and does not suddenly drop out or disappear. The default Fluent theme had some minor quirks for me, so I switched to Adwaita using Tweak. Thank you very much for this great distro.
Thank you very much for this wonderful Anduin OS. I am very happy with it. The desktop is easy to customize. The background image was much too blue for my taste, so I replaced it with a green image. I have now set the icons to Gnome-dust. And the bar has been moved to the left edge.
Really very nice!
The installation worked very well right away. The system proved to be fast and smooth. I added texlive to the selection of software, which works great with Gummi. There were minor problems with Scribus crashing, which I hadn't experienced with version 1.6.4 from the previous Windows installation. Furthermore, Firefox did not work with the keyboard command Ctrl-q. After the upgrade, there were differences in that the start page could not be adapted to different backgrounds for one user. Otherwise, there were no problems, especially not with the OS itself.
This is by far my favorite Linux distro. Ubuntu minus the bloat and no snaps !! Yeah !
However, you can use all of Ubuntu's software, via sudo apt install, and software can be installed via Flatpak.
It reminds me of the golden standard Ubuntu 18.04, before all the bloat.
The reason why I am so enthousiastic : you can use addons in Firefox for the Belgian identity card software, which is not possible in Ubuntu anymore, because there Firefox is a snap, a container, which can't communicate with said software.
You could install Firefox as a .deb, but at some given moment it will revert to snaps again.
If however you would like to install Itsme on your smartphone via desktop or laptop with the Belgian identity card, this is not possible as the Connective software is needed to read the chip of the card, and Connective only published software for Windows and Mac, not for Linux. For accessing the Belgian government site My Belgium, minfin, ebox or Burgerprofiel, it is perfect. And you can install this in the live usb and test it.
The Anduinos version 1.1, subversion 1.1.7 at this moment, July 29th 2025, is based on the Long time servicing LTS version of Ubuntu, Noble Numbat, which gets security updates till 2029. As a screenrecorder I installed Kazam on it.
The advantage is that you can download an iso in your own language from the Anduinos download page. Click on "All versions" to see also version 1.1.
One thing to mention is that the dutch version starts with a qwerty keyboard layout. If you want Belgian azerty, open the terminal with CTRL + ALT + T, and type : setxkbmap be
Push Enter key, and now you have azerty.
Of course, you can always change the keyboard layout in Settings/Instellingen
The normal download will get you version 1.3 which uses Wayland and is based on ubuntu 25.04 plucky puffin, with security updates during 9 months only. In this version you will gave to go to "settings" in order to change the keyboard layout. It does not work with setxkbmap.
If you are on Windows, you can put the iso to usb with Balena Etcher. It acts as a live cd/usb at startup.
The option "Try and install" may be a bit misleading ; it should be : "try or install", because it acts as a live usb.
On an MBR/bios laptop you can boot the usb on MBR, on a uefi secure boot computer you can choose the usb uefi option while booting. The boot was successful on a HP Studio G8 with Nvidia RTX 3600, and on a Dell 6440.
It requires at least 4GB of ram, and needs a 64bit CPU.
On the live usb, there are no user or root passwords, so you can install anything as long as you have sufficient ram.
Which of course will all disappear on next boot.
You see the shutdown option when you click on the blue sandwich icon.
Another option is to use mkusb on an original Ubuntu. With it you can make a persistent usb of Anduinos by using the d option, and when asked choose the Ubuntu option, not the Debian one.
A minimum usb stick of 16gb may be advised.
It creates a usbdata partition in NTFS on the stick, in order to access it when under Windows, or in another Linux distro.
This persistent usb will only boot in uefi, not MBR
This distro has been created with Windows users in mind, who can't buy a new computer with Windows 11 after October 2025, when Microsoft stops all security updates for Win 10, unless you are willing to synchronize everything to Onedrive and log in with a Microsoft account. If you do not want to use Onedrive, you have to pay 30 $/year and you still have to use a Microsoft account as Administrator.
Big thumbs up for Anduin Xue, a Chinese developer who works for Microsoft, who had the foresight to create a Windows-like lightweight Linux, which can boot in MBR and uefi secure boot.
Since the announcement of Microsoft Windows 10's end of support (support is ending in October 2025), I have been hopping from one distro to another, trying to find one that I like. I have been using AnduinOS for a month now. I love it.
Very user-friendly
The community is very helpful and quick to answer questions
Great documentation
Very lightweight
Easy to navigate for Windows users
no data collecting
very secure ClamTK and UFW
Install VMware effortlessly, install the .dbg (Got MacOS Tahoe beta and Sequoia installed and working)
Daily update
AMD GPU support - includes fan curve control, dual monitors,
So far, it has been compatible with almost all Debian, Linux Mint, and Ubuntu 20.24 software packages
I have zero complaints. Highly recommend this Distro.
AnduinOS Linux: Lightweight, Fast, and User-Friendly
AnduinOS Linux installs effortlessly on an HP portable powered by an AMD CPU and AMD GPU. The setup through the command line is smooth and intuitive, and performance after installation is impressive—blazing fast, even on modest hardware.
With a few personal tweaks like activating preload and enabling write cache via Disks, the system becomes even more responsive. It’s a great fit for users who want simplicity with the ability to customize under the hood.
Pros
- Excellent performance on AMD hardware
- Fast and clean installation, especially via CLI
- Flatpak integration through the graphical app installer
- Minimal bloat, giving users control over installed software
- Windows-like UI, welcoming for new Linux users
Cons
- No native AppImage support out-of-the-box
- Flatpak is the only GUI-supported package system (Snap not included)
- Advanced features may need manual tweaks for power users
I've been using Linux a long time now. Recently had a contract which meant using Excel, so had to go Windows 11. Now 11 isn't so bad, apart from the mind boggling intrusion of privacy which all MS users seem to accept as the norm.
So which distro to switch back to post Windows? Debian is my go-to, although I did run POP for a good while as my daily driver and liked it. The long, long, long awaited new POP will be complete to coincide with HS2 opening day, so I needed a more realistic alternative.
I like the look of 11 and so naturally Anduin caught my eye. Loaded it to my laptop (i5 7th gen Intel) and have to say it's been outstanding. The lack of pre-installed junk is a bonus for a start. Setup FlatPak and just download what you need as and when you need it. It's amazing how often we have a PC stuffed with apps we use once a lifetime.
I went for the LTS version as I just want stability and useability, this has it in spades.
For an absolute newbie distro, well if they are happy with FlatPak and a little command line action it's great. So probably not, unless you know someone that can offer a little free guidance.
It's a shame, a distro such as this absolutely has its place amongst them all, and would definitely appeal to newcomers.
P.S. Been using it for a while now and I actually like not fiddling with themes, icons etc. Maybe my short stint of Windows using has finally broken me of looking for that one silver-bullet tweak that makes my PC the best thing ever. I just like the function of this distro.
Hello, over the past few weeks I tried out several different Linux distributions and I really like this one the most. I am a new Linux user and AnduinOS is really intuitive and easy to work with coming from Windows. I like the speed and can reuse my pc, which is still running windows 11.
Until Microsoft may decide differently, as my hardware is allegedly out dated.
I was able to install the OS alongside windows 11 without any problem.
I am able to use Bing backgrounds, with the app '' Variety'', which can be installed from the app shop.
Clean, simple, easy. The Mac and Windows crowd will like this OS. I like it for daily driving, dev, network administration, and system administration. Runs really good on actual hardware. My laptops all run so smoothly with AnduinOS installed and running in the hardware. My normal software stack for all the functions I use are easily installed through cli, and the flatpacks software manager gui is nice for new users to linux. Over all, this is a sure winner to making it easy for the general public to adapt linux with little to no learning curve. Test drive, you won't regret it.
works perfect, this is my first exp with linux. i use it on my yoga slim 7 , flawless. i never tried linux before. i am really positively surprised that everything works as it should. as a 30 years old windows user, i am now in love with this distro. for me its great expierience . thx for this distro
its clean and minimalistic and all necessary app are in the package i only added libre office for productivity . if someone is complete linux virgin then i recommend anduine os......now its time to sink in terminal and learn some commands
uch a minimalistic but fantastic Ubuntu based desktop that comes with an interface familiar to majority of the computer users. If some body prefers the default Gnome looks instead of Windows like appearance, it is easy to disable or remove the extensions
I have rarely seen such a stable and stable working among the newly released distros. A carefully and meticulously prepared distribution. It would be more useful to add simple tools such as one-click installation for novice users. It asks for a strong password when adding a new user, but it did not accept it even though I wrote the most difficult encryption. It would be useful to review the simple settings. I am using version 1.3.1, I think it will replace the old ones I used. I hope it continues in the same quality. Good luck
I put this on one of my laptops the other day (1.3.2). The installer seems pretty streamlined (I have been using Linux since the beginning). Two strange things. If you choose the proprietary drivers it requires secure boot, which is OK but when my laptop restarted it would not boot. Not sure if the EFI was written correctly but I did go into grub and find the actual boot partition was in Chinese character so maybe my laptop didn't find it. Once I changed the partition to this it booted. Yes I installed the keys properly. I could not find specific laptop settings, but seems to be energy efficient (for linux). I changed icons to material theme, but stuff I installed from flatpak use the full color icons in the dock. Another reco, I am old now it should be easier to scale font and docking bar to a larger size/font without having to manually go in there and do that because 100/200 scaling factor is just not usable and I don't like to turn on display scaling because that always causes issues.
For such an early release this is quite sorted, I will keep it on for a while and see how it goes.
Such a minimalistic but fantastic Ubuntu based desktop that comes with an interface familiar to majority of the computer users. If some body prefers the default Gnome looks instead of Windows like appearance, it is easy to disable or remove the extensions. No forceful snaps like Ubuntu or Flatpaks. Looks modern and works very well on my 5+ years old laptop where I tested around a dozen different distros. Comes without any bloatware preinstalled, keeps modern looks including transparency and other effects still maintaining slightly over 1GB RAM usage during idle.
I have rarely seen such a stable and stable working among the newly released distros. A carefully and meticulously prepared distribution. It would be more useful to add simple tools such as one-click installation for novice users. It asks for a strong password when adding a new user, but it did not accept it even though I wrote the most difficult encryption. It would be useful to review the simple settings. I am using version 1.3.1, I think it will replace the old ones I used. I hope it continues in the same quality. Good luck
Might be the fastest distro Ive ever used, Ubuntu without the bloat. Its a fairly minimal install, as it gives you a browser and some added apps so you can get up and running. It includes the Gnome software store and it works well unlike, the 1.1 version of Anduin where its not accessible, and you end up installing everything through the console.
The GUI is simple, clean and allows you to just get things done. Gnome 48 is really nice. I added a few apps like Synaptic from the store and I was off and running setting up the distro to my liking. Both advanced users and beginners will be fine with this distro, and the documentation is very good. Its as close to Win11 as you would want without going overboard.
The start menu has your most used apps, the complete app list is available just like in Win11. Its easy to pin apps to the taskbar. I had no issues with hardware, as wifi and printer were auto detected. The weather app in the bottom left corner is really nice and easy to configure. The OS is named after the developer's first name, who works for Microsoft but is based in Hong Kong I believe. So dont be put off at its Chinese origins, its essentially Ubuntu without a lot of unnecessary features and extensions.
The iso is around 2gb so not too big and is live media so you can try it without installing. Install time for me was a bit slow on older hardware, but once installed it just flew, very quick and responsive.
I didnt run into any issues at all with 1.3.1 but avoid 1.1.4 as I said it doesnt have the software store enabled and apt only, its a bad experience. It allows users to create an individual experience, in a very clean UI, with less effort than most distros Ive used. Resource usage though has been around 1.5gb at GYU so this is not a distro for older hardware with less than 4gb memory.
Give it a try and I think youll like what you see.
AnduinOS Review: A Thoughtful and Purpose-Driven Linux Experience
After exploring a wide range of Linux distributions—Voyager, Ubuntu, Fedora, OpenSUSE, and others—AnduinOS stands out as one of the most thoughtfully crafted distros available. It brings a fresh, clear-headed philosophy to desktop Linux that respects user preferences while offering a solid and uncluttered GNOME experience.
1. Clean and Focused GNOME Desktop
One of AnduinOS’s standout qualities is how it trims down GNOME to a more practical, user-centered layout. For instance, the GNOME Overview is disabled by default—a relief for many users who prefer to boot directly to the desktop without distraction. This seemingly small decision speaks volumes about the developer’s understanding of workflow and usability.
2. Freedom from Extension Bloat
Unlike heavily customized distros like Voyager, which can overload the system with locked-in extensions, AnduinOS feels refreshingly light and customizable. It doesn’t force its own vision on the user; instead, it provides a clean base for you to build your ideal setup. This is especially helpful for users who need or prefer a minimalist environment for accessibility or performance reasons.
3. Minimal Branding, Maximum Flexibility
Where some distros push flashy login screens or branded theming, AnduinOS leaves the canvas blank—literally. While some might find the login screen plain, it also invites personalization without interference. You’re free to bring your own aesthetic to the table without having to undo someone else’s design.
4. Strong Performance and Practical Defaults
AnduinOS boots fast, runs smooth, and doesn’t bog itself down with background clutter. It offers sensible software choices and avoids the sluggishness often associated with Ubuntu Snap. Though it’s based on Ubuntu, its software repositories are curated with a specific vision in mind, offering a streamlined and consistent experience.
5. Respect for the User
More than anything, AnduinOS is respectful. It doesn’t impose, it doesn’t overreach—it simply gives you a solid, functional base that’s easy to mold into your own. The developer has shown clear intent and direction, including plans to build a better solution for app management.
In Summary
AnduinOS isn’t trying to be everything for everyone—and that’s its strength. It’s a focused, practical distro for users who know what they want and value a clean, customizable system without compromise. Whether you’re a creative, a minimalist, or just someone tired of unnecessary bloat, AnduinOS offers an experience that’s both modern and mindful.
certainly the distro that comes closest to win11, everything fast and easy from installation to usability, now with flatpak and/or easy pack repositories it is really complete. It takes up little space, it's fast and by not installing software that you often don't need it allows you to choose what to install and use. great job!
Anduin OS is stable,
the user interface is as pleasant as and more than win11,
updates run smoothly,
application installation without problems,
lightweight, only 1.9GB - which compared to others is a featherweight,
I think and believe that whoever wants to migrate from windows 10/11 - Anduin OS is the best solution, you hardly notice that there is linux under the desktop!
Great job!
1. It's beatiful and stable.Windows 11 UI looks great,and very friendly to user from Windows.
2. It save me a lot of time to modify gnome settings and extensions.
3. Kernel and software were update to date.It base on Ubuntu 25.04
4. No snap installed.I don't like snap,Install snap package is very slow in China.
5. Less space used.The ISO file's size just 2GB.
6. Chinese input method well supported.IBus rime preinstalled,and PinYin input method works well.
I used Linux Mint,Zorin OS.Now I'm using AnduinOS.
I just tried it to pass the time.......the updates were done without a problem....installing programs the same , the environment is very beautiful...responds immediately to applications , we must not forget that it is a 1.8 GB , it lifted my spirits , coming from a nightmare with Arco linux ( problem with updates and keys).. I really think it deserves an installation , surely time will tell....
I gave this a 1 only because when testing a distro I expect it to run well in a virtual machine for testing and if it doesn't perform well in the vm then whats the point of installing it on the actual pc? This does not run well at all. I had similar results with virtual box and even parallels. A lot more stability work needs to go into this for it to be great. It's fairly new so maybe give it a little more time. It resembles windows 11 for new users to transition easier to linux. It still has work to do so maybe it will succeed in it's efforts?
I have tested almost all major Debian and Arch variants, as well as Suse and a few others. Most recently, I used Mint LMDE for a long time because of its stability and security.
While waiting for the new LMDE version, I came across Anduin OS. Out of boredom, I installed it on my ASUS PC, which was built in 2013. I was very surprised to find that the installation worked right away and everything ran smoothly. Since I was used to the Cinnamon desktop from Mint and LMDE, I easily installed it via Synaptic. I had the choice between the “normal” Cinnamon desktop and the Ubuntu variant, both of which worked right away.
The software selection is excellent and significantly more up-to-date than, for example, Mint or LMD. If that's not enough, you can also install Flatpaks; Snap is not set by default. To be on the safe side, I also tested Anduin on an 8-year-old Acer notebook and a friend's Medion NB, and everything worked perfectly.
I've been using Anduin 1.36 for about 3 weeks now (home office, internet, video editing) and will stick with it; if any problems do arise, I'll post an update.
Looks and operates well on a VM or USB Drive. Very quick when opening programs seems very responsive. Looks very similar to another operating system so it would be great for those new to Linux. The UI is simplified enough not to overwhelm but functional enough to find all the apps on the system fairly easily. However, I did encounter problems with the 1.4 version. When I tried to install it on an external drive the installer script keeps crashing after partitioning the external drive and does not install the OS. I have tried to install using a Ventoy USB and a bootable stand alone USB with no success. I tried using an External M.2 SSD enclosure, a 2.5" SATA SSDs and still all of the attempts failed at the same point. I did manage to install the 1.36 version but their is no upgrade path to the 1.4 version at the time i posted this.
I use back in lat 90`s Amiga A3000, Opensuse,Fedora and Debian flagship.I`m using first time Linux again in 2024 because Windows11 and I try Anduin OS, I left a message in Anduin forum about the problem. The problem was the password was to long to connect to WIFI it auto restard and I try again . Yes my password is over 60 with names numbers special signs... I have 10 devices to change my wifi new password no way. My password works on Fedora.Debian .... only one is not working is Anduin OS. Well I have nothing to lose about Anduin OS.
Initially, I was impressed with AnduinOS' ease and speed of setup.
However, my enthusiasm waned after spending two days trying to get the
fingerprint sensor working.
Despite my best efforts, I couldn't seem to configure it properly, which
left me feeling frustrated. I'm pretty sure this is not convincing any windows users and definitely not a linux user.
Conclusion: if you are new to linux there is no ideal way to switch over. The linux experience is what it is and anduinOS doesn't solve it.
Ive been testing and running many different Linux versions for years and this is a very solid version and it is extremely solid for a person if they are into gaming.
I'm really looking forward to how this Linux version will evolve over the coming days, weeks, months and years! :)
You can very much customize it to look like anything you like.
Want a Mac, Windows? Or any look it has the tools... Very impressed!
*Only thing I am not a fan of is Flatpak I still think its best to avoid them if you can and use .deb packages personally!*
Like Ubuntu but hate Snaps? Then this is the distro for you. I think that some people may be a bit put off by the UI - it's clearly modeled after Windows 11, but in an intelligent way that still feels like Linux. I installed it fully expecting to use it for a few days and then go back to Endeavour, but several weeks later, it's become my daily driver. I've really enjoyed it - performance has been great, as has stability. Seriously, check this out, especially if you're a serial distro hopper - I think you'll be pleased and may find yourself sticking around longer than expected.
A very well-finished distribution, stable and compatible with most productivity software.
A perfect workflow for those migrating from Windows, it leaves nothing to be desired. I work with Microsoft systems and had no problems migrating or adapting. I've used KDE my entire life, and with AnduinOS, I permanently migrated to Gnome.
I had no difficulty connecting my cloud storage services.
The distribution has a script that upgrades from one version to another without the need for reinstallation.
The only thing I'm missing is a fingerprint reader for screen unlocking.
After 20 years of using Linux, this is the first time I've reviewed a distribution because I truly feel safe and comfortable using it on a daily basis.
AnduinOS especially version 1.35 It's the easiest and most basic thing to use I've ever come across.You can use it even if you have never used a computer if you have used a smartphone, then you can work on AnduinOS 1.3 /1.35 . You are migrating from Windows to Linux but you are afraid to type text commands in the terminal this is the right choice for you.Installing programs from the store located on the taskbar is so simple and intuitive that even a child could handle it without any problem.The store design is graphic, you choose the desired program and simply click on the install button.If you know the name of the program you want to install, you don't need to search through the categories. In the top left corner, there is an icon with a magnifying glass. Click on it and start typing the name. The store will automatically find it for you.The only feature that I didn't like and have as a remark is that when you install the program in the store, you have to click the open button to make the icon appear in the operating system.But I don't think this is a problem, it's just a little annoying.The distribution is also extremely suitable for older people who have difficulty using a computer.Realistically, it's easier to use than Microsoft windows.
After years of searching for a reliable and stable alternative to Windows, I’ve finally found a Linux distribution that truly impresses—Anduin OS! This distro is a game-changer, delivering a polished and robust experience that rivals Windows in both functionality and aesthetics. Keep up the fantastic work, developers! Anduin OS runs flawlessly on my i7 processor with 32GB of RAM, showcasing its ability to handle modern hardware with ease. Even more impressive is its performance within VirtualBox on the same machine, where it operates with remarkable efficiency and responsiveness. For anyone seeking a Linux distro that combines stability, versatility, and a user-friendly interface, Anduin OS is a standout choice.
One of the highlights of Anduin OS is its interface, which feels strikingly similar to Windows 11’s modern design. The sleek, intuitive layout makes it an easy transition for Windows users looking to explore Linux without feeling lost. What sets Anduin OS apart is its flexibility—you can customize the interface by moving the taskbar or panel to the top left or right, offering a level of personalization that Windows 11 doesn’t provide. This feature enhances usability, allowing users to tailor the desktop to their workflow or aesthetic preferences. Whether you prefer a centered taskbar like Windows or a more traditional Linux layout, Anduin OS accommodates both with ease.
Performance is where Anduin OS truly shines. On my i7 system with 32GB of RAM, it handles everything I throw at it—web browsing, video editing, coding, and even running resource-intensive applications—without breaking a sweat.
Beyond its technical prowess, Anduin OS offers a refreshing take on what a Linux distribution can be.
Everything works right out of the box after quick and easy installation. And the ISO required to install Anduin OS comes with the local language already included. After that, you forget about the OS because it runs smoothly in the background, and before you know it, the test has turned into a long-term use. To my great surprise, the creator of this system, Anduin Xue, has also solved a problem that unfortunately plagues many distros: the sound is consistent and does not suddenly drop out or disappear. The default Fluent theme had some minor quirks for me, so I switched to Adwaita using Tweak. Thank you very much for this great distro.
Thank you very much for this wonderful Anduin OS. I am very happy with it. The desktop is easy to customize. The background image was much too blue for my taste, so I replaced it with a green image. I have now set the icons to Gnome-dust. And the bar has been moved to the left edge.
Really very nice!
The installation worked very well right away. The system proved to be fast and smooth. I added texlive to the selection of software, which works great with Gummi. There were minor problems with Scribus crashing, which I hadn't experienced with version 1.6.4 from the previous Windows installation. Furthermore, Firefox did not work with the keyboard command Ctrl-q. After the upgrade, there were differences in that the start page could not be adapted to different backgrounds for one user. Otherwise, there were no problems, especially not with the OS itself.
Since the announcement of Microsoft Windows 10's end of support (support is ending in October 2025), I have been hopping from one distro to another, trying to find one that I like. I have been using AnduinOS for a month now. I love it.
Very user-friendly
The community is very helpful and quick to answer questions
Great documentation
Very lightweight
Easy to navigate for Windows users
no data collecting
very secure ClamTK and UFW
Install VMware effortlessly, install the .dbg (Got MacOS Tahoe beta and Sequoia installed and working)
Daily update
AMD GPU support - includes fan curve control, dual monitors,
So far, it has been compatible with almost all Debian, Linux Mint, and Ubuntu 20.24 software packages
I have zero complaints. Highly recommend this Distro.
This is by far my favorite Linux distro. Ubuntu minus the bloat and no snaps !! Yeah !
However, you can use all of Ubuntu's software, via sudo apt install, and software can be installed via Flatpak.
It reminds me of the golden standard Ubuntu 18.04, before all the bloat.
The reason why I am so enthousiastic : you can use addons in Firefox for the Belgian identity card software, which is not possible in Ubuntu anymore, because there Firefox is a snap, a container, which can't communicate with said software.
You could install Firefox as a .deb, but at some given moment it will revert to snaps again.
If however you would like to install Itsme on your smartphone via desktop or laptop with the Belgian identity card, this is not possible as the Connective software is needed to read the chip of the card, and Connective only published software for Windows and Mac, not for Linux. For accessing the Belgian government site My Belgium, minfin, ebox or Burgerprofiel, it is perfect. And you can install this in the live usb and test it.
The Anduinos version 1.1, subversion 1.1.7 at this moment, July 29th 2025, is based on the Long time servicing LTS version of Ubuntu, Noble Numbat, which gets security updates till 2029. As a screenrecorder I installed Kazam on it.
The advantage is that you can download an iso in your own language from the Anduinos download page. Click on "All versions" to see also version 1.1.
One thing to mention is that the dutch version starts with a qwerty keyboard layout. If you want Belgian azerty, open the terminal with CTRL + ALT + T, and type : setxkbmap be
Push Enter key, and now you have azerty.
Of course, you can always change the keyboard layout in Settings/Instellingen
The normal download will get you version 1.3 which uses Wayland and is based on ubuntu 25.04 plucky puffin, with security updates during 9 months only. In this version you will gave to go to "settings" in order to change the keyboard layout. It does not work with setxkbmap.
If you are on Windows, you can put the iso to usb with Balena Etcher. It acts as a live cd/usb at startup.
The option "Try and install" may be a bit misleading ; it should be : "try or install", because it acts as a live usb.
On an MBR/bios laptop you can boot the usb on MBR, on a uefi secure boot computer you can choose the usb uefi option while booting. The boot was successful on a HP Studio G8 with Nvidia RTX 3600, and on a Dell 6440.
It requires at least 4GB of ram, and needs a 64bit CPU.
On the live usb, there are no user or root passwords, so you can install anything as long as you have sufficient ram.
Which of course will all disappear on next boot.
You see the shutdown option when you click on the blue sandwich icon.
Another option is to use mkusb on an original Ubuntu. With it you can make a persistent usb of Anduinos by using the d option, and when asked choose the Ubuntu option, not the Debian one.
A minimum usb stick of 16gb may be advised.
It creates a usbdata partition in NTFS on the stick, in order to access it when under Windows, or in another Linux distro.
This persistent usb will only boot in uefi, not MBR
This distro has been created with Windows users in mind, who can't buy a new computer with Windows 11 after October 2025, when Microsoft stops all security updates for Win 10, unless you are willing to synchronize everything to Onedrive and log in with a Microsoft account. If you do not want to use Onedrive, you have to pay 30 $/year and you still have to use a Microsoft account as Administrator.
Big thumbs up for Anduin Xue, a Chinese developer who works for Microsoft, who had the foresight to create a Windows-like lightweight Linux, which can boot in MBR and uefi secure boot.
AnduinOS Linux: Lightweight, Fast, and User-Friendly
AnduinOS Linux installs effortlessly on an HP portable powered by an AMD CPU and AMD GPU. The setup through the command line is smooth and intuitive, and performance after installation is impressive—blazing fast, even on modest hardware.
With a few personal tweaks like activating preload and enabling write cache via Disks, the system becomes even more responsive. It’s a great fit for users who want simplicity with the ability to customize under the hood.
Pros
- Excellent performance on AMD hardware
- Fast and clean installation, especially via CLI
- Flatpak integration through the graphical app installer
- Minimal bloat, giving users control over installed software
- Windows-like UI, welcoming for new Linux users
Cons
- No native AppImage support out-of-the-box
- Flatpak is the only GUI-supported package system (Snap not included)
- Advanced features may need manual tweaks for power users
Hello, over the past few weeks I tried out several different Linux distributions and I really like this one the most. I am a new Linux user and AnduinOS is really intuitive and easy to work with coming from Windows. I like the speed and can reuse my pc, which is still running windows 11.
Until Microsoft may decide differently, as my hardware is allegedly out dated.
I was able to install the OS alongside windows 11 without any problem.
I am able to use Bing backgrounds, with the app '' Variety'', which can be installed from the app shop.
I've been using Linux a long time now. Recently had a contract which meant using Excel, so had to go Windows 11. Now 11 isn't so bad, apart from the mind boggling intrusion of privacy which all MS users seem to accept as the norm.
So which distro to switch back to post Windows? Debian is my go-to, although I did run POP for a good while as my daily driver and liked it. The long, long, long awaited new POP will be complete to coincide with HS2 opening day, so I needed a more realistic alternative.
I like the look of 11 and so naturally Anduin caught my eye. Loaded it to my laptop (i5 7th gen Intel) and have to say it's been outstanding. The lack of pre-installed junk is a bonus for a start. Setup FlatPak and just download what you need as and when you need it. It's amazing how often we have a PC stuffed with apps we use once a lifetime.
I went for the LTS version as I just want stability and useability, this has it in spades.
For an absolute newbie distro, well if they are happy with FlatPak and a little command line action it's great. So probably not, unless you know someone that can offer a little free guidance.
It's a shame, a distro such as this absolutely has its place amongst them all, and would definitely appeal to newcomers.
P.S. Been using it for a while now and I actually like not fiddling with themes, icons etc. Maybe my short stint of Windows using has finally broken me of looking for that one silver-bullet tweak that makes my PC the best thing ever. I just like the function of this distro.
Clean, simple, easy. The Mac and Windows crowd will like this OS. I like it for daily driving, dev, network administration, and system administration. Runs really good on actual hardware. My laptops all run so smoothly with AnduinOS installed and running in the hardware. My normal software stack for all the functions I use are easily installed through cli, and the flatpacks software manager gui is nice for new users to linux. Over all, this is a sure winner to making it easy for the general public to adapt linux with little to no learning curve. Test drive, you won't regret it.
works perfect, this is my first exp with linux. i use it on my yoga slim 7 , flawless. i never tried linux before. i am really positively surprised that everything works as it should. as a 30 years old windows user, i am now in love with this distro. for me its great expierience . thx for this distro
its clean and minimalistic and all necessary app are in the package i only added libre office for productivity . if someone is complete linux virgin then i recommend anduine os......now its time to sink in terminal and learn some commands
uch a minimalistic but fantastic Ubuntu based desktop that comes with an interface familiar to majority of the computer users. If some body prefers the default Gnome looks instead of Windows like appearance, it is easy to disable or remove the extensions
I have rarely seen such a stable and stable working among the newly released distros. A carefully and meticulously prepared distribution. It would be more useful to add simple tools such as one-click installation for novice users. It asks for a strong password when adding a new user, but it did not accept it even though I wrote the most difficult encryption. It would be useful to review the simple settings. I am using version 1.3.1, I think it will replace the old ones I used. I hope it continues in the same quality. Good luck
I put this on one of my laptops the other day (1.3.2). The installer seems pretty streamlined (I have been using Linux since the beginning). Two strange things. If you choose the proprietary drivers it requires secure boot, which is OK but when my laptop restarted it would not boot. Not sure if the EFI was written correctly but I did go into grub and find the actual boot partition was in Chinese character so maybe my laptop didn't find it. Once I changed the partition to this it booted. Yes I installed the keys properly. I could not find specific laptop settings, but seems to be energy efficient (for linux). I changed icons to material theme, but stuff I installed from flatpak use the full color icons in the dock. Another reco, I am old now it should be easier to scale font and docking bar to a larger size/font without having to manually go in there and do that because 100/200 scaling factor is just not usable and I don't like to turn on display scaling because that always causes issues.
For such an early release this is quite sorted, I will keep it on for a while and see how it goes.
Such a minimalistic but fantastic Ubuntu based desktop that comes with an interface familiar to majority of the computer users. If some body prefers the default Gnome looks instead of Windows like appearance, it is easy to disable or remove the extensions. No forceful snaps like Ubuntu or Flatpaks. Looks modern and works very well on my 5+ years old laptop where I tested around a dozen different distros. Comes without any bloatware preinstalled, keeps modern looks including transparency and other effects still maintaining slightly over 1GB RAM usage during idle.
I have rarely seen such a stable and stable working among the newly released distros. A carefully and meticulously prepared distribution. It would be more useful to add simple tools such as one-click installation for novice users. It asks for a strong password when adding a new user, but it did not accept it even though I wrote the most difficult encryption. It would be useful to review the simple settings. I am using version 1.3.1, I think it will replace the old ones I used. I hope it continues in the same quality. Good luck
Might be the fastest distro Ive ever used, Ubuntu without the bloat. Its a fairly minimal install, as it gives you a browser and some added apps so you can get up and running. It includes the Gnome software store and it works well unlike, the 1.1 version of Anduin where its not accessible, and you end up installing everything through the console.
The GUI is simple, clean and allows you to just get things done. Gnome 48 is really nice. I added a few apps like Synaptic from the store and I was off and running setting up the distro to my liking. Both advanced users and beginners will be fine with this distro, and the documentation is very good. Its as close to Win11 as you would want without going overboard.
The start menu has your most used apps, the complete app list is available just like in Win11. Its easy to pin apps to the taskbar. I had no issues with hardware, as wifi and printer were auto detected. The weather app in the bottom left corner is really nice and easy to configure. The OS is named after the developer's first name, who works for Microsoft but is based in Hong Kong I believe. So dont be put off at its Chinese origins, its essentially Ubuntu without a lot of unnecessary features and extensions.
The iso is around 2gb so not too big and is live media so you can try it without installing. Install time for me was a bit slow on older hardware, but once installed it just flew, very quick and responsive.
I didnt run into any issues at all with 1.3.1 but avoid 1.1.4 as I said it doesnt have the software store enabled and apt only, its a bad experience. It allows users to create an individual experience, in a very clean UI, with less effort than most distros Ive used. Resource usage though has been around 1.5gb at GYU so this is not a distro for older hardware with less than 4gb memory.
Give it a try and I think youll like what you see.
AnduinOS Review: A Thoughtful and Purpose-Driven Linux Experience
After exploring a wide range of Linux distributions—Voyager, Ubuntu, Fedora, OpenSUSE, and others—AnduinOS stands out as one of the most thoughtfully crafted distros available. It brings a fresh, clear-headed philosophy to desktop Linux that respects user preferences while offering a solid and uncluttered GNOME experience.
1. Clean and Focused GNOME Desktop
One of AnduinOS’s standout qualities is how it trims down GNOME to a more practical, user-centered layout. For instance, the GNOME Overview is disabled by default—a relief for many users who prefer to boot directly to the desktop without distraction. This seemingly small decision speaks volumes about the developer’s understanding of workflow and usability.
2. Freedom from Extension Bloat
Unlike heavily customized distros like Voyager, which can overload the system with locked-in extensions, AnduinOS feels refreshingly light and customizable. It doesn’t force its own vision on the user; instead, it provides a clean base for you to build your ideal setup. This is especially helpful for users who need or prefer a minimalist environment for accessibility or performance reasons.
3. Minimal Branding, Maximum Flexibility
Where some distros push flashy login screens or branded theming, AnduinOS leaves the canvas blank—literally. While some might find the login screen plain, it also invites personalization without interference. You’re free to bring your own aesthetic to the table without having to undo someone else’s design.
4. Strong Performance and Practical Defaults
AnduinOS boots fast, runs smooth, and doesn’t bog itself down with background clutter. It offers sensible software choices and avoids the sluggishness often associated with Ubuntu Snap. Though it’s based on Ubuntu, its software repositories are curated with a specific vision in mind, offering a streamlined and consistent experience.
5. Respect for the User
More than anything, AnduinOS is respectful. It doesn’t impose, it doesn’t overreach—it simply gives you a solid, functional base that’s easy to mold into your own. The developer has shown clear intent and direction, including plans to build a better solution for app management.
In Summary
AnduinOS isn’t trying to be everything for everyone—and that’s its strength. It’s a focused, practical distro for users who know what they want and value a clean, customizable system without compromise. Whether you’re a creative, a minimalist, or just someone tired of unnecessary bloat, AnduinOS offers an experience that’s both modern and mindful.
certainly the distro that comes closest to win11, everything fast and easy from installation to usability, now with flatpak and/or easy pack repositories it is really complete. It takes up little space, it's fast and by not installing software that you often don't need it allows you to choose what to install and use. great job!
Anduin OS is stable,
the user interface is as pleasant as and more than win11,
updates run smoothly,
application installation without problems,
lightweight, only 1.9GB - which compared to others is a featherweight,
I think and believe that whoever wants to migrate from windows 10/11 - Anduin OS is the best solution, you hardly notice that there is linux under the desktop!
Great job!
1. It's beatiful and stable.Windows 11 UI looks great,and very friendly to user from Windows.
2. It save me a lot of time to modify gnome settings and extensions.
3. Kernel and software were update to date.It base on Ubuntu 25.04
4. No snap installed.I don't like snap,Install snap package is very slow in China.
5. Less space used.The ISO file's size just 2GB.
6. Chinese input method well supported.IBus rime preinstalled,and PinYin input method works well.
I used Linux Mint,Zorin OS.Now I'm using AnduinOS.
I just tried it to pass the time.......the updates were done without a problem....installing programs the same , the environment is very beautiful...responds immediately to applications , we must not forget that it is a 1.8 GB , it lifted my spirits , coming from a nightmare with Arco linux ( problem with updates and keys).. I really think it deserves an installation , surely time will tell....
I gave this a 1 only because when testing a distro I expect it to run well in a virtual machine for testing and if it doesn't perform well in the vm then whats the point of installing it on the actual pc? This does not run well at all. I had similar results with virtual box and even parallels. A lot more stability work needs to go into this for it to be great. It's fairly new so maybe give it a little more time. It resembles windows 11 for new users to transition easier to linux. It still has work to do so maybe it will succeed in it's efforts?
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