What is the best OS?
What is the best OS?
Considering a switch from Windows might be worthwhile depending on your needs. Evaluate what you value most—performance, security, software compatibility, or user experience—to decide if another OS suits you better.
Windows certainly holds a significant role for many users, yet I believe GNU/Linux offers greater value in certain situations. If you haven’t explored it yet, consider installing Linux Mint or Ubuntu inside a virtual machine.
It varies by situation. I’ve attempted to turn off Windows, but the hassle of dual-booting for some programs bothers me. Others manage it smoothly. Manjaro is my preferred Linux distro, while Ubuntu is straightforward too.
It really hinges on your specific requirements and situation. I've been using Windows 98 since my early days with a computer, and still do so today (on Windows 10 too). The main reason I keep it is because I don't want to spend too much time reinstalling everything from scratch every time. My current needs mainly consist of playing games and doing some work, which are already sufficient on this system. I've also experimented with Linux Mint on an older machine with a weak Pentium processor. It runs smoothly enough for watching 720p videos using its built-in graphics, but again, it's tied to my daily use. I'd like to try Linux on my main computer, but my 120 GB SSD limits me. Also, switching between FAT32 and NTFS would be simpler than dealing with ext3 or ext4 during file transfers (though I don't use Linux much). Most people around you probably rely on Windows, so it would be less effort.
The only common reasons people hesitate to move to Linux are reliance on full Microsoft Office (no alternatives or 365 web version), dependence on Adobe CC (ignoring other options), and playing certain games (mainly those using kernel-level DRMs or anticheats, which can cross the line into malware territory).
It all hinges on the specific needs you have. If they’re available elsewhere, the move is straightforward. A similar version might exist; adapting to the new system could require some adjustment. If it’s exclusive to Windows, that’s the key point.
For a gaming and productivity machine, Windows remains the top choice. Its main drawbacks include a high virus presence and compatibility issues with older systems lacking SSDs. MacOS shines for professional tasks and offers stronger security compared to Windows, though it can be costly and gaming performance is often poor. Linux presents a solid alternative if you're comfortable with technical work—perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy customizing and fixing their hardware. If you prefer something stable without the hassle, ZorinOS Lite on an older laptop has proven reliable despite occasional hiccups.