Hands-on Review of Linux Mint 21.2: A Comprehensive Overview
An Overview of Linux Mint 21.2 “Victoria”
Linux Mint 21.2, codenamed Victoria, is a long-term support release based on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, providing users with stability and updates until 2027. Since its inception, Linux Mint has been one of the most popular and widely-used Linux distributions, known for its ease of use, modern desktop environments, and the focus on delivering a user-friendly experience. Version 21.2 is no different, and it comes with several significant enhancements that make it a compelling choice for users seeking an intuitive and polished Linux experience.
This comprehensive review will explore the new features, performance improvements, and overall user experience offered by Linux Mint 21.2. From the Cinnamon 5.8 desktop environment to the revamped Software Manager and Pix image viewer, this release brings many exciting changes, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned Linux users. Whether you are new to Linux or an advanced developer, Linux Mint 21.2 ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.
What’s New in Linux Mint 21.2?
Cinnamon 5.8 Desktop Environment: A Modern Touch
One of the most noticeable updates in Linux Mint 21.2 is the new Cinnamon 5.8 desktop environment. The Cinnamon desktop has always been one of the most loved aspects of Linux Mint, offering a clean, user-friendly interface combined with powerful customization options. With Cinnamon 5.8, Linux Mint refines the desktop experience even further.
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New “Styles” Feature
Cinnamon 5.8 introduces a new feature called “Styles”, which allows users to change the appearance of the desktop quickly. The new feature provides users with the ability to select between light, dark, and mixed modes, as well as color accents that personalize the experience. The dark mode has been enhanced for better cohesion, and the overall color scheme is now more refined, providing a smoother aesthetic across the system. This feature allows users to customize the look of the desktop environment to suit their personal preferences.
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Redesigned Window Controls
In this release, the window controls (close, minimize, and maximize buttons) have been realigned. Previously, these buttons were located on different parts of the screen, which could be disorienting. Now, they are neatly placed in the upper-right corner, making them easier to use and visually balanced. This subtle tweak improves the overall user interface by creating a more polished and uniform design.
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Improved Tooltips and Window Management
Another noteworthy enhancement in Cinnamon 5.8 is the redesign of tooltips. These tooltips are now larger, clearer, and more informative, improving accessibility and the overall usability of the desktop environment. Additionally, window management has been improved, including better snap functionality, workspace organization, and a more intuitive interface for users who like to manage multiple open applications and windows at once.
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Increased Customization Options
As with every update, Linux Mint 21.2 continues to provide users with a high degree of customization. Cinnamon 5.8 allows users to adjust various visual and functional aspects of the desktop environment, such as the taskbar, panel layouts, and window behavior. With these options, users can make the desktop fit their specific workflow and aesthetic preferences.
Revamped Software Manager: Easy Access to More Software
The Software Manager is one of the most crucial components of any Linux distribution, and in Linux Mint 21.2, it has received a much-needed overhaul. The updated Software Manager offers a more intuitive, responsive, and feature-rich experience for users looking to install, update, and manage software.
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User Interface Overhaul
The Software Manager has been redesigned with a cleaner interface, making it easier to navigate and search for applications. The interface now includes larger icons, smoother transitions, and a more streamlined browsing experience. Users can quickly find the apps they need, whether they are looking for basic utilities or more specialized software.
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Flatpak Integration
One of the most significant updates to the Software Manager is the introduction of Flatpak support. Flatpak is a universal packaging system that allows applications to run across various Linux distributions without modification. With Flatpak integration, Linux Mint users now have access to a broader selection of software packages, including apps that may not be available in the standard APT repositories. This integration gives users greater flexibility when it comes to installing and updating software.
Flatpak packages are now featured prominently within the Software Manager, making it easy to find and install popular applications from this format. Flatpak support also ensures that applications stay up-to-date with minimal effort, as the system can automatically update Flatpak apps when new versions are released.
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Improved Performance
Behind the scenes, the Software Manager has been optimized for better performance. Searching for apps, installing software, and updating packages has become noticeably faster, offering a smoother experience overall. Additionally, better error handling has been implemented, reducing the chances of encountering problems during software installation or removal.
Pix Image Viewer: Enhanced for Speed and Functionality
Linux Mint 21.2 also introduces several improvements to the Pix image viewer, which has been updated to gThumb 3.12.2. This update brings both functional and performance improvements to Pix, making it an even more useful tool for image management and editing.
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Faster Image Loading and Navigation
One of the main upgrades to Pix is the significant improvement in image loading speeds. Users will notice faster performance when opening and navigating through large image collections. This speed improvement makes it easier to browse and organize photos without any lag, even with high-resolution images.
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Expanded Format Support
Pix now supports modern image formats such as AVIF, HEIF, and JXL, alongside more traditional formats like JPEG, PNG, and GIF. The increased support for these new formats ensures that users can view and manage a broader range of images without needing to convert them to a compatible format.
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Enhanced Image Editing Tools
Pix has also received several updates in its image editing capabilities. New tools for color correction, special effects, and a color picker have been added, enabling users to edit their images more precisely. The addition of these features makes Pix a more powerful tool for basic photo editing, appealing to users who want a simple and straightforward way to enhance their images.
Performance and Usability Improvements
In addition to the major updates to the Cinnamon desktop, Software Manager, and Pix, Linux Mint 21.2 introduces several performance and usability improvements.
Faster Boot Times
Linux Mint 21.2 comes with faster boot times, allowing users to get up and running more quickly. The system has been optimized to start more efficiently, reducing the wait time when powering up the computer. This enhancement is particularly beneficial for users who need to get to work or access their files quickly.
Improved System Resource Management
Linux Mint 21.2 has also made significant strides in optimizing system resource usage, ensuring that the operating system runs smoothly even on lower-end hardware. The optimizations in this release allow Mint to run efficiently on a wide range of systems, from modern, high-end desktops to older laptops and low-resource devices. This makes Linux Mint 21.2 an excellent choice for users who want to breathe new life into their older hardware.
Better Hardware Compatibility
Another key area of improvement is hardware compatibility. Linux Mint 21.2 includes better support for modern hardware, such as graphics cards, Wi-Fi adapters, and printers, while maintaining compatibility with older devices. This ensures that users can easily install and run Linux Mint on a variety of machines without facing hardware compatibility issues.
Gesture Support for Touch Devices
Linux Mint 21.2 introduces gesture support for touchpads, touchscreens, and tablets. Users with devices that support touch input will find it easier to navigate the desktop with intuitive gestures.
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Window Management – Gestures can be used to manage open windows, allowing users to swipe between different workspaces or minimize/maximize windows with simple finger movements.
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Media Controls – Users can control media playback using touch gestures, making it easier to pause, play, and skip through media files without needing to click on buttons or use a keyboard.
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Workspace Navigation – Gesture support also extends to workspace navigation, allowing users to quickly switch between virtual desktops with simple swipes.
These touch-based controls provide a fluid, mobile-like experience, making Linux Mint 21.2 even more versatile and easy to use.
Visual Enhancements and UI Tweaks
Finally, Linux Mint 21.2 includes several subtle yet important visual enhancements to make the desktop environment look more polished and cohesive.
Updated Folder Icons
The folder icons in Linux Mint 21.2 have been redesigned with a two-tone style, replacing the previous striped appearance. The new icons offer a cleaner and more modern look, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the desktop environment.
Redesigned Tooltips
Tooltips, which display information when you hover over an element, have been revamped in Linux Mint 21.2. The updated tooltips are now larger, more readable, and more informative. These changes make it easier for users to understand the purpose of various UI elements and improve accessibility.
Is Linux Mint 21.2 Worth It?
In conclusion, Linux Mint 21.2 “Victoria” continues the distribution’s reputation for providing a polished, user-friendly Linux experience. With a range of enhancements in the Cinnamon desktop, Software Manager, Pix image viewer, and system performance, this release offers improvements in usability, appearance, and functionality.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a Linux distribution that’s easy to set up and use or an experienced user who values customization and efficiency, Linux Mint 21.2 has something for everyone. The new features, combined with the performance optimizations, make Linux Mint 21.2 a top contender for anyone looking for a reliable, efficient, and modern Linux desktop experience.
If you’re considering switching to Linux or upgrading from an earlier version of Linux Mint, Linux Mint 21.2 is certainly worth considering. With its stability, ease of use, and stunning design, it’s clear why it remains a favorite among Linux users.
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