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SpecsUpdate
Pros
Pro Already functional out-of-the-box
Mint comes bundled with software for browsing the web, editing pictures, browsing files, watching videos and even a full office suite (LibreOffice). Any user can use Mint productively after a fresh install, utilizing the software that comes with the distribution to complete most of their daily tasks. For software needs that exceed what's available out of the box, tens of thousands of high end open source software packages are available via Mint's "Software Manager" for most any task one can think of .
Pro Mint is based on the latest Long Term Support version of Ubuntu
Long Term Support versions of Ubuntu are continuously updated for an extended period of time, even after newer versions are launched. LTS versions will typically get feature additions and enhancements for an extended period of time, then security updates up until its End of Life. LTS releases typically are fully supported for at least 5 years. So Mint's current LTS Ubuntu base is fully maintained for at least that long a time.
Pro Easy installation and configuration
Linux Mint uses the same installer as Ubuntu. It is very easy to use for beginners, and also allows more advanced users to choose their own partitions. Linux Mint's Cinnamon and MATE desktops are highly customizable and can be made to look, feel and work however one prefers.
Pro Familiar user interface
Mint is highly recommended for users making the move from Windows, as well as users unhappy with Ubuntu's unending interface changes. Mint's MATE desktop provides an updated interface with a traditional look and feel based on Gnome 2x. It installs with an application menu similar to the Windows 7 Start Menu, plus the customization options possible with MATE are limited only by each user's view of how their desktop should look and function to suit their personal work habits.
Pro Popular
Linux mint is the most hit Ubuntu LTS based distro on DistroWatch. Because of its popularity, long term support is guaranteed.
Pro Low learning curve to go from installation to advanced configuration
Mint is extremely easy to install, and with community support, easy to move onto adjusting the OS to meet your specific needs. The vast majority of instructions for undertaking configuration work and are easy to understand.
Pro Mint 20 will actively avoid the Snap landmine planted by Canonical in Ubuntu 20.04.
Pro Provides LTS (long term support) versions
Long Term Support versions are versions of software that are continuously updated for an extended period of time, even after newer versions are launched. LTS versions will typically get feature additions and enhancements for an extended period of time, then security updates up until its End of Life. An LTS release should typically be considered good for at least 5 years.
Pro 2016 hack listed here as a Con, was very quickly dealt with and is a non-issue over 4 years later
Cons
Con Upgrade process between version can be painful
The Linux Mint team offers a method to upgrade the OS between versions but they tend to recommend clean installs, which isn't always suitable for everyone. However, following the upgrade process currently is less than straightforward and is easily capable of leaving your system in a confused state.
Con Security may be an issue
Linux Mint by default does not have auto updates turned on for important packages such as xorg or the kernel, thus leaving users with potentially insecure software.