As Microsoft prepares to retire support for Windows 10 on October 14, the Linux community is making a growing—and totally reasonable—effort to encourage Windows 10 users to switch to Linux.
Some Linux distributions have been especially active in welcoming Windows users—maybe even a bit over the top. But now there’s something fresh in the mix: KDE Plasma, one of the leading desktop environments, has introduced a brand-new section dedicated to the subject on its website.
It’s called “KDE for Windows 10 Exiles,” and it’s all about encouraging people still using Windows 10 to make the switch to Linux—Plasma in particular. Now, don’t get me wrong, but all the hype around the so-called “apocalyptic” October 14 feels a little overblown.
So, I’m considering compiling a dedicated article in the coming days. The goal? To clear things up, bust a few myths, and—most importantly—give Windows 10 users a realistic idea of what they actually can expect if they decide to switch to Linux. Plus, of course, I’ll also highlight some of the most relevant options in this space.
This heavy focus on the topic is probably also why the popular Windows-focused site Windows Latest published a response piece to KDE’s article. Their headline? “KDE’s overdramatic campaign urges Windows 10 users to get Linux over Windows 11.” And honestly, even though I don’t love saying it, I have to admit—I agree with most of the points they made.
However, I’d also like to make one thing clear: KDE Plasma is the most natural fit for anyone coming from Windows, not just Windows 10, to Linux. It’s the option that feels most familiar and causes the least friction when making the switch. So, in that context, KDE’s move makes perfect sense.
Finally, just a quick reminder—along those same lines, there’s also the “End of 10” initiative, which major Linux distributions like Debian and openSUSE have already joined. So, keep an eye on our news—we’ve got something special coming your way on this topic in the next few days.
I strongly agree with Miroj, in the sense that Cinamon is by far a better option over KDE due to the lower consumption of resources.
I do have two comments:
1. Microsoft was/is strongly pushing to upgrade to Windows 11, which is natural upgrade for supported hardware, however the users of PCs unsupported by Windows 11 are strongly discouraged to go that direction. Even the workarounds are canceled in the latest Windows 11 install ISO images.
2. I would challenge the KDE as the only most natural fit for Windows coming users, I would seriously consider the Cinnamon desktop environment as alternative for Windows coming users.