When comparing NixOS vs Zorin OS, the Slant community recommends Zorin OS for most people. In the question“What are the best Linux distributions for Gnome Shell?” Zorin OS is ranked 10th while NixOS is ranked 13th.
Specs
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro No package dependecy hell
Pro No package conflicts
Pro Reuse configuration
Pro Roll back updates
Pro Stable
Pro Most settings just work
Isolation and well-made defaults means for most systems changes there's a simple flag to switch and it will work with everything you've got.
Pro Stable
Pro Good Selection of pre-installed software
New users may be unaware of what software is available for Linux, but Zorin includes a good selection for everyday tasks out of the box.
Pro Windows desktop style
The desktop UI was made to resemble Windows 7, but alternative settings are available.
Pro Ubuntu-based
Zorin is compatible with Ubuntu's sizable repositories of Free Software.
Pro Bundles tools for changing the look and feel of the distribution
Zorin includes look changer and theme changer.
Pro Partial Windows compatibility
Zorin includes WINE and PlayOnLinux to run many Windows applications and games.
Pro Installer can set up dual boot
Pro Ubuntu got too big
Ubuntu uses too much resources, Zorin uses less.
Pro Accessibility features
Pro Zorin Connect
Allows syncing notifications with your phone.
Pro Low resources consumption
Cons
Con Beginners Linux users may not want to learn Nix Expression Language to customize more advanced installs
Con Difficulty running software that's not packaged
You can generally never run "Linux" binaries without patching them or starting up an FHS sandbox. Some build scripts just won't work.
Con Limited desktop styles in Free Version
All free editions only offer Windows XP, 2000, and 7 and Gnome 2. You have to pay $9-10 in order to get Unity (Ubuntu) and Mac OS X themes.
Con Even with v16 Pro, zero tech support replies
Do not pay for Pro. You’re supposed to get tech support with your $39 purchase. After contacting them a few months ago about the inability to install build tools due to their wonky custom versions, to date there has been no answer. You could find a friend and get them to send you the theme and look packages. The rest is all available easily in the Ubuntu catalog.