Screenshot by Jack Wallen/ZDNET Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. ZDNET's key takeaways Zorin OS 18.1 is now available to install for free. There are many updates and plenty of polish. This latest release might be the best OS I've ever tried. Back in 2025, I stated that Zorin OS 18 might be my new best Linux distro . Before that (in 2023), I called Zorin OS exactly what a desktop operating system should be . Notice a pattern? With each release, Zorin OS makes a very strong statement that it's the Linux distribution for users of all types.  Zorin OS 18.1, released today, continues that trend to the point where I'm officially calling it the best Linux distribution on the market; not just for new users, not for experienced users -- for everyone.  It won't take long after your first login to understand why I can make such a bold claim. Zorin OS 18.1 refines everything the developers have done to date, creating an operating system that is just so darn good. Also: Linux Mint vs.…