Minty Fresh: Look And Feel

The software manager works just like Ubuntu, handling dependencies intuitively and letting you search and add as you please. I was able to get it to connect to the router and after a run of updates I was completely at home.

One subject of debate with Minty is the difference in menu styles.  However, with a few clicks I had reset my Ubuntu drawers and customized menus. I actually like the menu, but those who do not can go back to the Ubuntu look and feel with a little tweaking.

As you can see above, the top left corner has the traditional main menu that is instantly recognizable. You can pin favorites on the new menu, or browse all your applications.

The desktop and window graphics are superior to Ubuntu.  The green tones are actually subdued and attractive (you can change them if you like) and the little pretty things are even prettier.  The graphics don't seem to burden my laptop, unlike the last couple of Ubuntu updates.  The workspace manager lets you stay organized and productive.

Look and feel gets a five out of five.  It's the best of Ubuntu with significant improvement.  It is efficient and clean, and geared towards productivity.  What a newbie wouldn't know, they could find with some modest effort on their part.  The support and help files are friendly and easy to follow.  The menu allows you to make as many taskbars as you like, and line them with drawers that are 100% customizable as well.  If you have a certain way of doing things, it would be hard to find a setting that can't be easily altered to suit you.  This is completely newbie friendly and ready to run.  When compared to Ubuntu 11.04, Mint 11 wins by miles.  When compared to Windows it wins by an even wider margin, because it allows you to set up with ease and is even more attractive than what I've seen of Windows 7.  I have no Mac comparison, but if any of you are Mac people please let me know what you think.