Zorin OS is a Linux-based operating system designed to be easy to use, especially for people moving from Windows or looking for a simple, modern desktop experience. It is available in different editions, with Zorin OS Core and Zorin OS Pro being the two most popular choices.

Both editions are built on the same operating system and provide the same reliable foundation. The main differences are the additional desktop layouts, bundled applications, installation support and the price.

In this comparison, we'll explain the key differences between Zorin OS Core and Pro, what each edition includes, and help you decide which one is the better choice for your needs.

Quick Answer

Choose Zorin OS Core if you want a free, easy-to-use Linux operating system for web browsing, office work, media playback and other everyday tasks. It includes everything most users need without any cost.

Choose Zorin OS Pro if you want additional desktop layouts, a larger collection of preinstalled creative and productivity applications, and installation support to help you get started.

Both editions are built on the same operating system, receive the same security updates, and support running many Windows applications through the available compatibility tools.

Zorin OS Core vs Pro Overview

What Is Zorin OS Core?

Zorin OS Core is the free edition of Zorin OS, designed for people who want an easy-to-use Linux desktop for everyday computing. Whether you're browsing the web, working on documents, watching videos or managing personal tasks, it includes everything most users need to get started.

It comes with four standard desktop layouts, making the transition from Windows or another operating system feel familiar. Zorin OS Core also includes essential applications such as the LibreOffice office suite, a web browser and other everyday tools, so you can begin using your computer immediately after installation.

If you still rely on certain Windows programs, Zorin OS Core can run many Windows applications through compatible tools, helping make the move to Linux easier.

Why Choose Zorin OS Core?

✓ Free to download and use.

✓ Simple and user-friendly desktop that's easy to learn.

✓ Includes essential applications for everyday computing.

✓ Comes with LibreOffice for documents, spreadsheets and presentations.

✓ Supports many Windows applications through compatibility tools.

✓ Receives regular security and software updates.

Best For

Zorin OS Core is best for home users, students, beginners and anyone looking for a free alternative to Windows. It delivers a complete desktop experience without requiring a paid license.

What Is Zorin OS Pro?

Zorin OS Pro is the paid edition of Zorin OS that includes everything available in Zorin OS Core, along with additional desktop layouts, more preinstalled applications and installation support. It is designed for users who want a more complete setup from the start without spending extra time installing additional software.

One of the main benefits of Zorin OS Pro is the collection of extra desktop layouts, giving you more ways to customize the look and feel of your desktop. It also includes additional creative and productivity applications that are ready to use after installation, making it a convenient choice for work, content creation and everyday productivity.

Zorin OS Pro also comes with additional wallpapers and artwork, along with installation support to help you set up the operating system if you need assistance.

Why Choose Zorin OS Pro?

✓ Includes everything available in Zorin OS Core.

✓ Comes with additional desktop layouts for greater customization.

✓ Includes extra creative and productivity applications.

✓ Additional wallpapers and artwork are included.

✓ Installation support is available to help you get started.

✓ Less time spent installing software after setup.

Best For

Zorin OS Pro is a good choice for professionals, creators and users who want more applications, additional customization options and installation support from the moment they install the operating system.

Zorin OS Core vs Pro: Key Differences

Desktop Layouts

Both editions provide a modern and easy-to-use desktop, but Zorin OS Pro offers more customization options. Zorin OS Core includes four standard desktop layouts, while Zorin OS Pro adds eight additional layouts inspired by popular operating systems.

If you like to personalize your desktop or prefer a familiar layout when moving from Windows or macOS, Pro gives you more choices without requiring extra setup.

Preinstalled Applications

Both editions include the applications most people need for everyday computing. Zorin OS Core comes with a web browser, the LibreOffice office suite, media applications and other essential tools, making it ready for web browsing, document editing, email and entertainment straight after installation.

Zorin OS Pro includes everything available in Core and expands on it with a larger collection of preinstalled applications for creative work and productivity. Depending on your needs, this can include software for photo editing, graphic design, audio and video production, note-taking, remote desktop access and other everyday tasks.

The biggest advantage isn't simply having more applications—it's spending less time setting up your computer. Instead of searching for and installing additional software after installation, more of the tools you may need are already available, allowing you to start working sooner.

Artwork & Personalization

Zorin OS Core includes the standard wallpapers that come with the operating system.

Zorin OS Pro adds a larger collection of wallpapers and artwork, along with more desktop layout options, giving you greater flexibility to personalize your desktop.

Installation Support

If you are comfortable installing Linux yourself, Zorin OS Core provides documentation and community resources to help you get started.

Zorin OS Pro includes installation support, making it a good option for users who would like assistance during the installation process.

Price and Overall Value

Zorin OS Core is completely free and provides the same operating system foundation as Zorin OS Pro, making it an excellent choice for everyday computing.

Zorin OS Pro requires a one-time purchase and adds additional desktop layouts, more preinstalled applications, extra wallpapers and artwork, and installation support. You're not paying for a different operating system. Instead, you're paying for additional features and the convenience of having more tools ready to use from the start.

Is Zorin OS Pro Worth Buying?

Whether Zorin OS Pro is worth buying depends on how you plan to use your computer.

If you need a free, reliable operating system for web browsing, office work, watching videos and other everyday tasks, Zorin OS Core is an excellent choice. It provides the same operating system foundation as Pro and includes everything most users need without any cost.

If you prefer a desktop that's more complete from the moment it's installed, Zorin OS Pro offers added convenience by including more customization options, additional software and installation support. This means you can spend less time setting up your system and more time using it.

It's also important to know that Zorin OS Pro is not faster than Zorin OS Core. Both editions use the same operating system, receive the same security updates and support many Windows applications. The difference is the extra features and convenience included with Pro, not improved performance.

Zorin OS Core is a good choice if:

✓ You want a free Linux desktop for everyday use.

✓ You're happy installing additional applications when you need them.

✓ You want a simple and easy-to-use alternative to Windows.

Zorin OS Pro is worth considering if:

✓ You prefer having more tools available immediately after installation.

✓ You want additional customization options without extra setup.

✓ You'd like installation support to help you get started.

✓ You value convenience and want a more complete experience from day one.

For most users, Zorin OS Core is all that's needed for everyday computing. Zorin OS Pro is worth the one-time purchase if you prefer a system that's ready to use with less setup and includes additional features from the start.