Linux Mint vs Pop!_OS
Linux Mint: A familiar desktop. A comfortable place to start. Pop!_OS: A developer-friendly desktop with built-in tiling. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersLinux MintBoth are beginner-friendly; Linux Mint has a Windows-like layout.
- GamingPop!_OSPop!_OS ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareLinux MintSimilar memory needs, but Linux Mint offers a lighter desktop option.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | Linux Mint | Pop!_OS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #2 | #13 |
| Latest version | 22.3 (Jan 11, 2026) | 24.04 (Dec 11, 2025) |
| Based on | Ubuntu LTS | Ubuntu LTS |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce | COSMIC |
| Package management | APT · Flatpak | APT · Flatpak |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2006 | 2017 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Older hardware, Development | Development, Gaming, Everyday use |
Key differences
- Linux Mint ships Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce; Pop!_OS ships COSMIC.
Choose Linux Mint if…
- familiar desktop layout with useful defaults
- graphical software and update managers
- choose Xfce for a lighter desktop
Packages can be older than on rolling distributions
Full Linux Mint profileChoose Pop!_OS if…
- nVIDIA image with the proprietary driver preinstalled
- optional auto-tiling built into the desktop
- tested on System76 hardware
COSMIC is young; expect rough edges and missing extensions
Full Pop!_OS profileLinux Mint vs Pop!_OS: FAQ
Is Linux Mint better than Pop!_OS?
Neither is better for everyone. Linux Mint is the stronger pick for beginners, older hardware; Pop!_OS for gaming.
Which uses less RAM, Linux Mint or Pop!_OS?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is Linux Mint based on Pop!_OS?
No. Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu LTS; Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
Can I switch from Linux Mint to Pop!_OS without losing files?
Back up your home folder first. If /home is on a separate partition you can reinstall without formatting it, but a clean install with restored backups is safest.