Linux Mint22.3
A familiar desktop. A comfortable place to start.
What is Linux Mint?
Linux Mint puts a traditional desktop, graphical update tools, and a straightforward software manager at the center of the experience. The Cinnamon edition is a natural starting point for people moving from Windows. The Xfce edition offers a lighter alternative for older hardware.
Who is Linux Mint for?
Linux Mint fits best for everyday use, older hardware and development. Where it ranks in our lists:
- Top pick: Linux distros that look like Windows
- Top pick: best Linux distros for 4 GB of RAM
- #1 of 18: best lightweight Linux distros for old laptops
- #2 of 22: best Linux distros for beginners
- #2 of 29: best Linux distros for programming and development
Pros
- Familiar desktop layout with useful defaults
- Graphical software and update managers
- Choose Xfce for a lighter desktop
Cons
- Packages can be older than on rolling distributions
- The newest hardware may need a newer kernel
Linux Mint system requirements
For a comfortable desktop with a modern web browser, plan for about 4 GB of RAM. Linux Mint is available for x86_64. Leave at least 25 GB of storage for the system and applications. These figures are editorial guidance; check the official documentation for minimums.
Linux Mint versions and support dates
| Version | Released | Latest | Support ends | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linux Mint 22.3 ZenaLTS | Jan 11, 2026 | 22.3 | Apr 30, 2029 | Supported |
| Linux Mint 22.2 ZaraLTS | Sep 4, 2025 | 22.2 | Apr 30, 2029 | Supported |
| Linux Mint 22.1 XiaLTS | Jan 16, 2025 | 22.1 | Apr 30, 2029 | Supported |
| Linux Mint 22 WilmaLTS | Jul 25, 2024 | 22 | Apr 30, 2029 | Supported |
| Linux Mint 21.3 VirginiaLTS | Jan 12, 2024 | 21.3 | Apr 30, 2027 | Supported |
| Linux Mint 21.2 VictoriaLTS | Jul 16, 2023 | 21.2 | Apr 30, 2027 | Supported |
| Linux Mint 21.1 VeraLTS | Dec 20, 2022 | 21.1 | Apr 30, 2027 | Supported |
| Linux Mint 21 VanessaLTS | Jul 31, 2022 | 21 | Apr 30, 2027 | Supported |
See all 18 Linux Mint versions
Source: endoflife.date. Support scope varies by product; confirm on the project’s site.
What does Linux Mint look like?
Linux Mint 22.3 with Cinnamon 6.6 has a traditional, Windows-like layout: a dark panel along the bottom with the menu at the left, pinned Files, Firefox and Terminal launchers, and the system tray and clock on the right. The redesigned menu has a sidebar with your avatar, places and favorites, a column of categories, and search at the bottom. Windows are light with Mint-Y’s aqua accents.
Try Linux Mint before you install
Write the image to a USB stick and boot it as a live session to test Wi-Fi, graphics, sound, and suspend on your own computer. A browser trial on DistroSea shows the desktop, but cannot verify your hardware.
Compare Linux Mint with…
Best Linux Mint alternatives
Linux Mint: common questions
What is Linux Mint based on?
Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu LTS. It uses APT · Flatpak for software and systemd as its init system.
What is the latest version of Linux Mint?
The latest Linux Mint release is 22.3 (“Zena”), released Jan 11, 2026, according to endoflife.date.
How long is Linux Mint 22.3 supported?
Linux Mint 22.3 is listed as supported until Apr 30, 2029. It is a long-term support release.
Is Linux Mint good for beginners?
Yes. Linux Mint is one of the more approachable distributions: familiar desktop layout with useful defaults.
How much RAM does Linux Mint need?
We suggest about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop experience with a modern browser. This is editorial guidance, not the project’s official minimum, which can be lower. It runs on x86_64.
What desktop does Linux Mint use?
Linux Mint offers Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce.
Is Linux Mint a rolling release?
No. Linux Mint uses fixed releases; you upgrade to a new version periodically.
Is Linux Mint free?
Yes, Linux Mint is free to download and use.