Which Linux Distro is most like OSX?
 

Hello!

I'm a long time OSX user who is stuck with Windows for now. I'll be purchasing a new Mac after Macworld. I was thinking about using Linux for the time being. I'd like to be able to have a OSX Dock-like app launcher, if possible. Maybe something like Spotlight too.

Thanks!!

linux is no where near graphical. different distros use different programs for the desktop environment and some look different and work different then others.

if you install a distro that uses KDE check out http://www.kde-look.org/ and search for osx for themes, buttons, mouse cursors, etc. if you use a GNOME-based distro look at gnome-look.org. visit distrowatch.com to see a list of distros and their statistics including which GUI they use.

there are other programs im sure that try and emulate docker and spotlight, i just have never looked. search for those at google.com/linux, this site, or another linux-oriented search engine.

Its easy enough, try searching for docks for gnome/ kde, maybe try a more minimal wm and bask in the massive speed increases, there all easy enough to find

use gdesklets in gnome and superkaramba for kde.
They give you a lot of desktop applets with nice eye candy.
asn you can get a lot of OSX themes for gnome and kde from
gnome-look.org and kde-look.org

If you're looking for a dock, look into ksmoothdock.

I wouldn't bother with Linux unless you're prepared to make some commitment. It's not really something that will be ideal for you to get by temporarily until you get a new mac. Linux isn't a replacement for OSX and Windows, it's completey different.

If you want something to get by with, then you might as well stick with your Windows since it's not going to take the investment of time and dedication to learning like Linux does. Linux doesn't tend to be a system where you just plug it in and someone has made all the assumptions for you.

However, with all of that said, if you're set on using Linux, then your best bet is to probably go with one of the more newbie friendly distro like ubuntu, xubuntu, or kubuntu. Another good option would be to use Knoppix since it tends to be a distro to where you insert a CD and you're up and running with no tweaking.

Don't forget PCLinuxOS. It's the only distro that installed on my Acer 64bit laptop (32bit mode) without a single problem. You can even run it from a 512Mb USB stick. Try the LiveCD.

I'd give Dreamlinux a shot. 2.2 just came out. I found it to be a well put together package and it does run off a live CD so no reason not to give it a try. I realize this thread is getting on the old side, but I really think Dreamlinux deserves more attention and it is decidedly MAC-like out of the box.

dreamlinux(dot)com(dot)br