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Linux can be straightforward to install, but that alone does not prove it is easier than Windows for a particular person. Ubuntu’s guided installer offers a USB preview and sensible defaults; the real test is whether the computer’s hardware, apps, and everyday tasks work for the person who will use it.
What an installation can—and cannot—prove
Ubuntu’s official documentation says its guided installation does not require deep technical knowledge and can use default choices to create a usable system. It also lets you try Ubuntu from a USB drive before changing the PC. Those features support the narrower claim that Ubuntu provides an approachable installation path; they do not establish that Linux is universally easier to install than Windows or easier to use day to day.
Linux Mint describes its desktop as comfortable and easy to use, but that is the project’s own characterization, not an independent comparison. To judge ease for a relative, test the tasks that matter to them: opening familiar files, using the required applications and peripherals, connecting to Wi-Fi, and completing their regular routine.
Check the PC and the person’s needs first
Choose a specific distribution before checking requirements. The figures below come from the distributions’ own pages and are not universal Linux requirements.
#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
| Distribution | Listed requirements | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Ubuntu Desktop | 2 GHz dual-core processor or better; 6 GB RAM; 25 GB free drive space | Ubuntu download page |
| Linux Mint | 2 GB RAM minimum, 4 GB recommended; 20 GB disk minimum, 100 GB recommended; 1024×768 resolution | Linux Mint FAQ |
Before installation, list the files, Windows applications, browser extensions, printers, webcams, and other devices the user depends on. Check whether each essential application has a Linux version or a suitable alternative, and whether any work or school requirement specifically depends on Windows. A successful installer cannot resolve an application or workflow incompatibility.
Try Ubuntu from USB before changing the disk
Ubuntu’s installer can start a preview session from USB. That gives you a chance to check the actual computer before committing to an installation. Ubuntu recommends certified hardware where possible, but a live preview is useful for checking a particular machine.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
- Back up important files. Ubuntu’s installation tutorial recommends backing up data on a PC that has already been used. Store a copy somewhere separate from the drive you may change.
- Create installation media. Download Ubuntu Desktop and use an image-writing application to write it to a USB flash drive. Writing the image erases the USB stick, so use an empty one or save its contents elsewhere first.
- Boot from the USB. Start the PC from the USB stick and choose “Try Ubuntu” to preview the desktop rather than starting the installation.
- Test the user’s real tasks and devices. Check display, Wi-Fi, sound, printer, webcam, sleep and wake, and the software the person needs. These are checks to perform on the target PC, not results guaranteed by the preview.
- Decide what to do with Windows. Continue only after confirming the backup and understanding whether the installer will replace Windows or install alongside it.
Ubuntu’s current installation guide describes the guided flow and preview: Install Ubuntu Desktop. The live download page also outlines downloading, creating USB media, and trying or installing Ubuntu: Download Ubuntu Desktop.
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Replace Windows
Ubuntu’s “Erase disk and install Ubuntu” option uses the entire selected drive. Ubuntu describes this as the easiest choice when Ubuntu is to be the only operating system. It removes the existing Windows installation and data on that drive, so verify the selected disk and backup before proceeding.
Rank #3
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Install alongside Windows
An alongside installation allocates space for Ubuntu while preserving existing files. It still changes the disk layout, so a backup is prudent. If Windows uses BitLocker, Ubuntu says it cannot safely access that installation for an alongside setup. The options are to replace Windows, disable BitLocker, or use a separate unencrypted disk. Do not treat dual boot as a simple option in this situation.
Manual partitioning
Ubuntu identifies manual partitioning as an option for advanced users. If you do not already understand the disk layout and partition choices, use the guided options instead of experimenting on a relative’s only copy of their data.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
Judge everyday ease after the install
Installation is one task; living with the desktop is another. After setup, ask the user to perform their normal activities without coaching and note where they succeed, need help, or encounter a missing feature. Pay particular attention to whether familiar files open correctly, essential software is available, peripherals work reliably, and routine updates or settings are understandable to them.
Ubuntu and Mint both publish official documentation for installation and ongoing use. Linux Mint’s documentation index links to its installation, user, and troubleshooting guides: Linux Mint documentation. A fair conclusion should describe the distribution and version tested, the computer, and the tasks observed—not make a claim about every Linux desktop or every Windows user.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
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