This Windows 10 Clone Looks Like The Real Deal

If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, I can confidently say that an Ubuntu-based Linux OS called “LinuxFx” really admires the appearance of Microsoft’s Windows 10. In fact, this distribution goes to such painstakingly detailed lengths to emulate the look and feel of Windows 10, I’m surprised Microsoft hasn’t called in the army of lawyers to shut it down. But is LinuxFx a comfortable gateway into Linux for Windows users, or merely an Ubuntu clone with a clever Windows skin?

LinuxFX, an Ubuntu-based Linux distribution that uses the Cinnamon desktop to (almost) perfectly emulate Windows 10

LinuxFx Build 2004 (codenamed “WindowsFx”) is a Brazilian-created Linux distribution based on Ubuntu 20.04. It uses the flexible Cinnamon Desktop, but novice Linux users would be hard-pressed to identify it; on the surface it’s truly a dead ringer for Windows 10.

LinuxFx also bundles in a healthy assortment of productivity and communication software that Windows users are likely accustomed to such as Skype, Telegram, Microsoft Teams, TeamViewer and Zoom.

There’s even a stripped-down assistant called “Helloa” that uses roughly the same logo and basic animations as Cortana. On your first boot, the Helloa assistant will help set up your graphics drivers, display and resolution, and a couple other basics before you dive in.