Peppermint OS vs Zorin OS
Peppermint OS: A light Debian-based desktop with minimal defaults. Zorin OS: A gentle switch from the desktop you know. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersZorin OSBoth are beginner-friendly; Zorin OS has a Windows-like layout.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwarePeppermint OSPeppermint OS needs about 2 GB of RAM versus 4 GB.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | Peppermint OS | Zorin OS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #45 | #7 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Debian Stable | Ubuntu LTS |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Xfce | GNOME-based (Xfce in Lite) |
| Package management | APT · Flatpak | APT · Flatpak · Snap |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2010 | 2008 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Older hardware, Everyday use | Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Peppermint OS is based on Debian Stable, while Zorin OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
- Peppermint OS ships Xfce; Zorin OS ships GNOME-based (Xfce in Lite).
- Software comes from APT · Flatpak on Peppermint OS and APT · Flatpak · Snap on Zorin OS.
- We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for Peppermint OS and 4 GB for Zorin OS.
Choose Peppermint OS if…
- lean install with Debian underneath
- devuan variant without systemd
- simple welcome tools
Community-maintained with a small team
Full Peppermint OS profileChoose Zorin OS if…
- familiar desktop layouts
- graphical tools for common tasks
- ubuntu-compatible software ecosystem
Some layouts and bundles require a paid edition
Full Zorin OS profilePeppermint OS vs Zorin OS: FAQ
Is Peppermint OS better than Zorin OS?
Neither is better for everyone. Peppermint OS is the stronger pick for older hardware; Zorin OS for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, Peppermint OS or Zorin OS?
Peppermint OS is lighter: we suggest about 2 GB versus 4 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Peppermint OS based on Zorin OS?
No. Peppermint OS is based on Debian Stable; Zorin OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
Can I switch from Peppermint OS to Zorin 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.