Once you buy yourself a new PC/laptop, the very first question to ask yourself is this: what operating system should I use for it? That is, of course, if the computer you’ve bought doesn’t already have an operating system installed by default.
The two main contenders of computer operating systems are obviously Windows and Linux. Both of them have their advantages and downsides, and the right choice depends on each person’s needs while using a PC. However, the technical requirements should also be taken into account.
Let’s find out the pros and cons of Windows and Linux operating systems, hoping that you will make an informed decision in the case of your PC:
Windows: User-friendly
Pros:
- User-friendly interface: In the Windows operating system, regardless if it’s Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 7, or even an older version, everything is intuitive as you navigate across the OS. In other words, Windows was made to be user-friendly and not nearly as complicated as Linux is.
- Software compatibility: Windows operating systems are usually compatible with a vast array of apps and games. As a Windows user, you can easily install software from either the Microsoft Store or third-party sources.
- Support for gamers: If you’re a hardcore gamer, you should definitely opt for a Windows OS, as the majority of game developers target this OS. In other words, it’s hard to find a PC game that’s not compatible with Windows. Even many console games were adapted for Windows PCs as well.
Cons:
- Cost: Windows operating systems often come with a price tag. Users often need to spend money on licenses.
- Resource intensity: Windows operating systems usually have higher system requirements, especially the latest Windows 11, compared to Linux distributions. If you have older hardware on your PC, running Windows 11 might just not be possible at all.
Linux: Open-source distributions
Pros:
- Open source: One of the main advantages that Linux has to offer is its open-source nature. This means that if you’re a Linux user, you can gain access to the source code, allowing for customization and modification of the operating system to suit specific needs.
- Numerous distributions: Linux is available in numerous distributions, which are known as distros, as tailored for different purposes. If you want a lightweight system, for instance, you can go with Ubuntu. If, on the other hand, you wish to get your hands on a more advanced and customizable environment, you can use Arch Linux.
- Stability and reliability: There are hardly any viruses out there that could affect a Linux operating system, which is why many users of this operating system don’t even install antivirus software. Linux is well-known for the stability and reliability that it has to offer, which makes it a preferred choice for both servers and critical systems. Linux can even run for extended periods without degradation in performance.
- Efficient with the system resources: A lot of Linux distros are suitable for older hardware or systems that have limited resources. Therefore, older machines will even run better once the operating system doesn’t take a toll on their resources.
Cons:
- No more gaming: If you’re a hardcore gamer, you must know that far fewer games are compatible with Linux compared to Windows. Furthermore, Linux distros still lack support for some proprietary software that was designed as Windows exclusives.
- Higher difficulty: If you’re new to Linux, it’s impossible not to struggle with the command-line interface or with the installation of some apps. Linux works differently in those areas compared to Windows, as it’s significantly more difficult to handle.
Therefore, it’s impossible to say for sure if Linux is better than Windows or vice versa. It depends on each person’s needs and interests when it comes to which one of these operating systems is the suitable choice. You need to consider your priorities when deciding if Windows or Linux is best for you.
Tim M. Hill helped bring Digital-Overload from a weekly newsletter to a full-fledged news site by creating a new website and branding. He continues to assist in keeping the site responsive and well organized for the readers. As a writer to Digital-Overload, Tim mainly covers mobile news and gadgets.
