Is Linux Really BETTER Than Windows

[@mojoneko8303]

Learning how to use the Linux OS is a lot like learning a new language. I use both Windows and Linux. I'm trying to become more fluent with Linux so I have an option in the event Windows becomes too obnoxious for me to use anymore. Thanks for the video.

[@AndreaBorman]

Linux is a lot more user friendly now than it used to be. When I first tried it in 2010 I found it hard and I did go back to Windows. But now it is different as many Linux distros are now being made for Windows users in Mind. There is Zorin OS and Linux Mint which are very much like Windows. they have the Windows style taskbar and start menu and even their file managers are a lot like Windows Explorer only much better. The desktops such as KDE, Cinnamon and XFCE also have that Windows look and you can even enable system event sound as you can on Windows. The best desktop to start with is KDE Plasma, Cinnamon Mate or Xfce if you want the Windows look and feel. LXDE is also an option as it also has the Windows XP look as does LXQT but the only thing is they are not very customiseable and quite plain desktops. Also LXDE is no longer supported so I would stick with the main desktops. Linux Mint is the one I use and I would recommend that to any new users coming from Windows.And you can install other desktop environments if you don't like the one it comes with. Linux is a kernel so is not dependant on any one desktop. The desktop can be changed. So if for example you don't like Mate you can install KDE or XFCE and remove the Mate or default desktop. Though that is more for advanced users. Most new users will just have the desktop and software it comes with and Mint has most things people want as do many other distros like Zorin and Ubuntu.

[@mrtuk4282]

@@kevrasxYes, they have been cooking Frog users for years (Since Win 10) some will just accept and be eaten by the pervasive personal data collecting MS machine others will try and block that, but the only real way it to leave their ECO system and use Linux IMHO !

[@magnusm4]

Linux is like a foreign language. You will always have an accent and a small stutter from time to time.

[@spshc]

When I was working (I'm retired now) I used Windows, Linux for Sun, HP Linux and Red Hat. Each flavor of Linux was different and had its own commands. Though similar, each had their own syntax with its own generated output. We didn't use a GUI interface in Linux because, at the time, it was really unusable. It also was infeasible not to use Windows for the business user. That said, as a technical user, I really liked Linux since when I started using computers there was only DOS. I found Linux's command line interface taking me back to that time and requiring more command line coding to be more productive. That is probably why I like PowerShell for that command line aspect.

[@matthewpaolini]

I remember buying RedHat in 1998 for $60. It had virtually no driver support for anything. I couldn't even dialup to my ISP. I would have to boot back into windows and find the download links. I think the only DE was Enlightenment. KDE might have been around. Not sure. Linux has come a long way since then.

[@DavidSMA]

I made the switch to Linux on all my computers when I found out about the new “Microsoft privacy” policies. I will never look back and feel Linux is the superior choice. To hell with windows and their spyware. I own my computers not Microsoft.

[@Skewel]

"Linux is a superior choice" What bs lmao, Linux is just like a planet with no life, it has absolutely no support for Industry Standard apps so it's basically useless for productivity and content creation side of work, it's only good for basic use or gaming and also Linux isn't a complete GUI based OS so you have to go through multiple steps to do the same thing that you can do on Windows in a few clicks. Also, if you value your privacy that much, then get off the internet, simple. We are just simply in an age where you just can't escape from corporations tracking you.

[@Britec09]

I am glad that's working out for you David.

[@simhz2221]

Couldn't have said it better. Linux is indeed the superior choice. Unless you're dependent on Adobe or M$ Office suite for professional reasons then you simply buy a W$ laptop for this purpose and the rest goes on Linux.

[@finkitsallover]

​@@Skewelwell you can have privacy just depends on what and from what. You treat it as a black and white thing like if I publically post an image just because some image scrapers are gonna use the data from that now all attempts at privacy are for nothing and I may aswell give up and throw a full body scan, an autobiography and a list of all my likes and dislikes into every advertising firms database. Some people want privacy for certain things and don't mind sacraficing other data to use a service they may use.

[@DV-ml4fm]

Anything is better than M$ windows.

[@grantchallinor5263]

I'm a Windows 10 user and love the UI and flexibility of the OS - less so the update system and (of course) Microsoft as a company. I have 8 friends who are all gifted IT professionals and, with one exception, all of them use Linux as their main OS. At the moment, my thinking is that if support for Windows 10 is not extended (for free) after 2025, then I'll go over to Linux too.

[@antoniom.andersen6704]

For a workspace I love Windows, for servers I love linux. It all depends on what you use your system for.

[@grantchallinor5263]

@@antoniom.andersen6704 I'm British, but based in Russia. My friends (as far as I'm aware) use Linux for work purposes like programming for VK (the Russian version of Facebook), developing apps for Smartphones, developing/improving websites, and for personal use too.

[@Britec09]

Thanks for sharing

[@antoniom.andersen6704]

@@grantchallinor5263 Yeah, vKontakte and other apps for smartphones are easier to make on linux as linux is the base for android/ios (well, bsd for ios but meh). I AM on linux on my PC as well as on my servers but I do love the windows UI and the fact that you can get almost any program for it. Apart from that I know a few people from over east that prefer linux to windows like you mention here 🙂

[@1pcfred]

Windows update is a joke. I mean what's it doing, bitcoin mining on your PC? Unless my PC has to compile a new kernel module for my Nvidia hardware updating just takes seconds on Linux.

[@Neatrior]

The only time I’d consider switching to Linux is if Microsoft made windows a subscription service. All of my work requires windows apps, most of them aren’t compatible with Linux. I am familiar with Linux so switching wouldn’t be hard but it doesn’t make sense for me at this point. Power to anyone who does switch. At the end of the day, it’s their choice and should be respected.

[@MichaelandCathy1999]

I’m going straight to APPLE, screw Microsoft

[@IrrationalDelusion]

@@MichaelandCathy1999no gaming for you.

[@SpaceCadet4Jesus]

If you're relatively young, those subscription days will come. They already have a cloud PC. Microsoft is working on it as I type. Enjoy.

[@IrrationalDelusion]

@@SpaceCadet4Jesus It’s not the subscription that is the problem, but the drop of quality, terrible product and complete lies about privacy

[@SpaceCadet4Jesus]

@@IrrationalDelusion Not exactly. Nobody wants to pay for a subscription to use their operating system. The rest is just your opinion.

[@thedeester100]

my first experiment with linux was 20 years ago. I found it mostly unusable. 8 years ago though I started to find my old laptop struggling with windows. I tried linux again and was impressed how far it had come. I have used multiple distros but finally settled for Linux Mint. Gone are the days of needing the terminal for everything. I find it very Windows 10 like.

[@somegoofy]

Several weeks ago after many decades with Windows systems switched to Linux Mint for daily use. The transition went without a hitch in less than a day. Internet, movies, basic office documents, remote access programs for computer user assistance - all works. I still use some windows programs (freeware) in the Wine environment (they perform some operations in a well-known and simple way). So far, the flight is smooth, the working environment is pleasant, practical, easily adaptable (windows should be significantly improved to this level). Both Windows and Linux each have their own bugs. The first reason for the transition - without Windows, other systems will be increasingly important. The second reason - windows system degrades and becomes practically unusable.

[@peterschmidt9942]

You bring up some great points Brian. The way I see it is it's not Windows or LInux, but Windows & Linux. There's things both systems do really well and its about using the right tool for the job. I can do 95% of stuff on my Linux laptop, but there's certain things that it either wont do or its harder to do on Linux than Windows. I can't do without MP3tag so thats a WIndows one for me. I've also got some audio interfaces, guitar amps and remote controls that won't work on anything but WIndows or Mac. But for most general usage, I'll use Linux where I can.

[@ominoussage]

Tagger is a really simple to learn alternative to MP3Tag. It's a Flatpak, easy-to-install and I'm confident you can fully learn how to use it in only a few minutes. For your audio interfaces, etc., yeah Windows/Mac is your only choice for now.

[@peterschmidt9942]

@@ominoussage Thanks. I think I've tried all of the audio taggers in Linux and they're not even close to the speed and functionality of MP3tag unfortunately. I've even tried using it under Wine. And while it works somewhat, its harder to access files using it that way. I've also tried an AUR version but couldn't get it working on the distro unfortunately as well. I tried LOL.

[@williamlinington9166]

You hit the nail on the head. The idea of transitioning to Linux and dong it at a pace which works for each individual. Good video Brian and I totally agree with your obsevations.

[@mrbrent62]

I agree with you 100%. I use Windows , Linux Mint and Mac OS. But I’m also a computer guy. I agree about some not being able to handle it. We have users who can’t deal with moving an icon on their desktop. Also we have programs at work like Cargowise that only runs on Windows.

[@ThisGuyFrritz]

My Dell Inspiron had Windows 7 when I first got it from BestBuy. About a year ago (maybe less), I've upgraded to Windows 11 when I thought it was time to do so. Meanwhile, I bought an Asus laptop on eBay which has a faster processor. It had Windows 8 and some stuff I don't think I'll use. So, I installed Linux Mint on it (as well as installing an SSD). Some months later, for some reason, the Asus laptop stopped working right. I couldn't get it to work anymore. It's now on eBay for parts or repair.. Fortunately, I had backup files on a spare HDD. I've managed to get a good used Toshiba laptop with Windows 11 (21H2) and upgraded that to version 23H2 (also got an SSD for that). As for the Inspiron, it was running slow on Windows 11. Then, I thought of installing Linux Mint on that, as well as making sure that I have the necessary backup files on, at least, one of my spare HDD's. So now, the Inspiron has Linux Mint 21.2. It has smoother video motion than it did on Windows. Since the Toshiba has a faster processor, it has smoother motion than when the Inspiron had Windows 11. It may not be for everyone to try, but I've managed to have my good used laptops working fine on a budget.

[@dingokidneys]

I'm still using Dell Inspiron 1525's dating back to 2008 with Linux Mint and Kali Linux. One has 4GB RAM and an SSD and the other 2GB RAM and spinning rust. They WON'T DIE (dammit) and they both run fine doing everything I ask of them. I have to look elsewhere for an excuse to buy new hardware.

[@0w3nn]

@@dingokidneysdon’t buy new hardware.

[@lexiath]

aw so sad you did not give Nobara a chance, it comes with all you mentioned preinstalled even steam, the thing just works out of the box and its made by the same person who made protonGE(the tool that allows windows games to run on linux) i've been using it for 2 weeks now and its great im playing path of exile as i write this now so far has been a smooth ride

[@WololoWololo2]

Garuda Linux Dragonized gaming

[@bellshooter]

Great vid as usual, and correct, there are things to learn. It is really easy to do the basics, internet, office programs (not Microsoft, LibreOffice) , music files , email, etc. All free programs, but it takes a little work for modern games under Steam, and specific Windows programs are not available, but some are, such as DaVinci Resolve , a better video editor than the usual Windows ones. As a really easy and well put together OS I would choose MX Linux, or possibly Linux Mint as a first timer.

[@axandraalex5869]

Better video editor is arguable here. Davinci resolve is a profesional software so there's learning curve, since i don't do video on a professional level i prefer ones like filmora where it's semi AI integrated and ready to use presets/automation to make your life easier.

[@manti1923]

I can't be asked to change over from Windows now I'm happy with my computer setup....I use Adobe and other graphic software along with various music software I don't need anymore software headaches...keep up the good work my man.

[@jonesgang]

Most people should be able to transition fairly easy due to the UI's being very similar. But beyond that is where things change up quite a bit and that is where the learning curve begins. If all they do is surf the web and play games like candy crush they might not even notice any real difference accept for responsiveness. If they wish to do more, there will be a learning curve to get through and a lot of mistakes and reinstallations.

[@mrtuk4282]

I agree but if they search the web for what they want to do in Linux then most things will be solvable. I play Eve online and it works great but I do use a 7950X with 6950XT GPU so which is a high end Desktop PC which sadly many Windows users that try Linux do so on an old PC and them complain its not that fast compared to they 13900K with 4090 in it, so if you give Linux the same hardware I find its so close in performance that you won't be able to tell the difference and if playing games then any games DX11 or below should run faster on Linux and games that run on DX12 might give an edge to Windows. Eg; I get 1400fps on my 7950X Linux system in Eve online if I disable VSync but in normal use I always use Vsync because running 1400fps is just a waste of CPU and GPU resources.

[@jonesgang]

@@mrtuk4282 If people knew how to actually use the internet to search for information we would not have all the issues in the world today. Something to think about.

[@orvilleclisby6748]

To avoid re-installations, I use AI to help provide me with script within the terminal. I am also reading a book on how to understand general lines of code. Being a new user I haven't made many mistakes apart from destroying one old computer by messy with the BIOS with which I could seem to re-set.

[@VAL-TORR]

And the programs??

[@jonesgang]

@@mrtuk4282 While Linux runs faster than windows, for some reason people think that Linux can turn a potato into a Ferrari. It just doesn't work that way.

[@ominoussage]

This is simply the best video about Linux that I've ever watched. You've addressed the elephant in the room for the Linux vs Windows debate. I'm using a dual-boot system mainly using Linux and I've always thought that Linux chooses users and not the other way around. Even though I mainly use Linux, I had to use Windows due to some software I use and even if there's a way around it, it's too much of a hassle for just wanting work to be done than choosing the "better" OS. For some people, Linux might work 100% for them but for non-tech savvy users (a.k.a the average person), they just want an OS that supports 100% of their work and I'm glad you made it clear in your video.

[@ghost-retro3733]

I use both, my main PC is Windows 11, I have a home web server on Linux (LAMP Ubuntu Server), I also have a laptop running Debian 12 (cinnamon desktop). The thing is that I like them all for different reasons, I would not even consider windows for a web server as I don’t want to waste system resources on a pointless GUI. At the same time my desktop Debian system is very fast and responsive, and I use it quite a lot. The big BUT is I need windows, and if I could only have one OS Windows would win. All my hardware is older, so I have to use workarounds for Windows 11, but it works great! Years ago, I used to work in the IT Industry (from before windows 95 to around Windows 7) and Linux was never a option back in the old days, but these days Linux is great, so even if you don’t keep it, I recommend giving is a shot. For a first time Linux user maybe give Mint a go, I personally like Debian.

[@colincomber8027]

Thank you Britec several years back you made a video recommending Linux Lite - I was using Windows 10 at the time. I installed Linux Lite but I didn't like it's appearance, so I replaced it with Linux Mint. I soon deleted Windows and stayed with Linux since. I am now much happier and a confirmed Linux users.

[@jackkraken3888]

If you have a spare PC lying around you can install Linux on it and see how far you go. Or you can try a virtual machine with Linux. This will give you the best of both worlds and you can basically Google any problems you have or ask in forums.

[@markanderson2155]

I agree with you. Personally I see nothing wrong with having more than one OS, it doesn't hurt. People need to be aware that when a windows OS becomes dead, it's only dead for online use. It can still be used just not online. Like you said you can run a Linux system for online use for basic needs while you can still run your other programs offline on the older systems. XP, Vista, 7, 8 or 10 can still function offline. To which I really don't see a reason why unless you have a favorite program that you like. Like old Microsoft flight simulator games or an old database program or spreadsheet and many more. I still have functioning 98SE, XP and Vista which by now are museum pieces. I even had an old Packardbell 286 & 386 but unfortunately I had to throw them out because they got damaged and were not worth saving.

[@Britec09]

Thanks for sharing Mark

[@real_lostinthefogofwar]

I use linux on 2 computers, but I just use them for entertainment and web browsing, my main computer that I actually do stuff on is Windows

[@Britec09]

Nothing wrong with that mate, if it works for you, go for it.

[@thydevdom]

When I get Linux apps working, it's a night and day experience, with that being said, the amount of headaches GNU/Linux will give you is also night and day. I love windows because it just works 9/10 and there's very little configurating needed.

[@Andy001z]

I was forced to turn to Linux Mint when my windows 10 pc crashed twice and would not recover. I gave up and put Mint on the Pc. It's works well enough but like you said, done if the tills I used on a regular bases just don't work. I'll be moving back to Windows soon. But it wasn't a bad experience.

[@speedup070605]

@Britec, I think the term "low user base following for Linux" is a bit incorrect. The right term is "Linux has a low user base for Desktop usage" because definitely Linux has a ton of following in "network, storage and network environment".

[@dingokidneys]

The Linux kernel is the most widely used OS kernel in the world running on everything from mobile phones through to super computers. It runs on home routers, IoT devices (curse them!), enterprise web-servers, enterprise network equipment, the Large Hadron Collider and the Mars Rover. If you want it to just work, and work right, you use Linux.

[@Britec09]

@speedup07605 You know I was talking about desktop as I mentioned it in the video.

[@speedup070605]

@@Britec09 Yes I know but I was pointing this out to people who listens to your channel that is not familiar with Linux (and read the comment section). I believe there are a lot of them. I just want to point out the elephant in the room to be clear

[@stranded_mariner7695]

I'm a Linux user, have been for many years, but it hasn't been without its problems. I think Linux is a good alternative but depends on other factors, such has the user's technical level, choosing the right DE, distro and use cases to name some.

[@SpaceCadet4Jesus]

Too many gotchas. I want to get going with my life, not putz over headscratching details with something I have no interest in. What does everybody else like, Apple, Microsoft.? Okay, I'll pick from there.

[@Pahrump]

Not against your Windows videos- I use Windows and Linux. Actually installed LMDE6 a couple of weeks ago. (have used other Linux flavors) I'm quite happy with LMDE6. *not knocking your videos, as I said, I use Windows, too. A great option for MS Office is LibreOffice.. Can do Office file formats and others. (it's not in the cloud).

[@Britec09]

I know LibreOffice, pretty nice software

[@coderrc51]

Do only office due to some power point slides not showing some parts of the slides due to font issues that are not fixed in libreoffice

[@dingokidneys]

@@coderrc51 Installing ttf-mscorefonts-installer (Debian repository) might solve your problem.

[@RokKovacic70]

As a long term Linux user who started with slackware 0.13 kernel in early 1990s, then used it seriously in corporate sysadmin in late 1990s (as sysadmin tool, along NeXT and Solaris), going to WinXP as personal driver in early 2000nds. Transitioning back to Ubuntu then Debian at around 2006 until now... Your article is spot on. And my bottom line would be: If you're not in sysadmin/networking work, then ask yourself: Do I need to change distro because something doesn't work correctly (drivers, display, etc..) ? If you need to reinstall to different distro, then better stick to Windows for a bit longer. Hope that will improve over time. 99.9% of all distros have same filesystem layout, they just differ at default settings. Choosing one should only relate to package management and how recent updates are. Anything else is in mighty /etc directory and systemd/udev scripts.

[@ShinyHelmet]

I'm currently dual booting Windows and Linux. The Linux install is more of a test bed for an eventual complete transition across, as I just don't like where Microsoft is heading with Windows and feel I'll want to get away completely once Windows 10 is EOL.

[@axq3837]

Proprietary software advocates fundamentally don’t understand the concept of free(dom) and open source software. Until their product is discontinued or not accessible in some, way shape or form. As long as it doesn't happen, all good. The convenience mindset over freedom, control, security, privacy and actual ownership.

[@Britec09]

How long would privacy and freedom exist if Linux replaced Windows? not long. Ubuntu has privacy concerns now.

[@axq3837]

@@Britec09 but you have the source code and can fork it in any way you like. You can ask someone to do it for you if necessary. You also have different distros. If Windows would break, you have no source code and absolutely no way to fix it. You are completely dependent. And all your applications that depend on Windows will go down with it. Wait and watch what will happen if everything becomes subscription-based and a government revokes access to "your" OS and apps.

[@dingokidneys]

@@Britec09 The best software for privacy and security is all open source - OpenSSL, OpenSSH, TLS, Telegram, Signal, all the standard cryptographic libraries. Linux is free and in so many forms that no one can stifle the freedom that it provides. You also have the Linux Foundation and the Free Software Foundation that help ensure that the software we rely on remains a public good. Red Hat recently made changes to their licensing which some saw as limiting the freedom of other distros to develop down-stream products. However, that was rapidly worked around and alternative Enterprise Linuxes remain available. There is even an Enterprise Linux standard developing that several companies have signed up to which will ensure that Red Hat does not become the only game in town.

[@litemint09]

Hi Brian, been on linux for 2 years now, im a virtual assistant that mainly do some graphics design, I do use Photopea as an alternative to photoshop and together with canva, never been this satisfied using an operating system aside from the bloatware slash spyware windows, there's a learning curve switching to an operating system to another, doing my main task on this x250 thinkpad. Which ever you prefer to use in terms of operating system, its a matter of preference.

[@mariojpalomares2514]

There is couple of things that needs to be pointed out here. 1. Desktop and servers: People seem to forget that at it's core, linux is mostly used for servers therefore gets more targeted than windows on the desktop. So this whole marketshare, users base is kind of moot. Unlike windows, there is no labels on linux. That desktop distro that is on your desktop pc is really is a server os being converted to function as a normal desktop os. Everything else, packages, filesystem is at an essence, the very same thing that is on enterprise servers. The whole not enough users to be worth targeting is moot. 2.malware and or attacks: A gnu/linux system is built from the ground up at its core. It is literally built with security in mind, no matter how one looks at this. As a server os that runs 24/7 to keep the web and services going that we take for granted gets bombarded a lot. Most of these breaches that do happen is due to servers not being configured properly etc. Now take that very same server os and add a desktop environment and presto, you now have a server os disguised as desktop os. with such security features already built in and the way it is built, you hardly ever need to worry about any kind of anti-virus anti-malware if at all. It really boils down to the user. Don't be carelessly sudo everything and you will be fine. From a long time windows to now a gnu/linux user for almost 4 years Windows is surely not missed. I am on linux mint and i have yet to see a single crash at all. I can leave the system on for days and be exactly how i left it. 3.Drivers: This area is where windows truly loses. For starters, the way drivers are being handled in a gnu/linux system is way way different, nowhere near as how windows handles driver. This alone is a game changer. The way drivers are handled in linux is at the kernel level. There is really no installing or reinstalling. swapping is more like it. Heck you can even have multiple kernels added and switch between them as your heart desires and then back without affecting the system whatsoever. Drivers are self-contained. Some distros even have a kernel manager to pick a kernel that is best suited for your system! And for the non-free proprietary drivers like nvidia. You get the nvidia kernel version and presto. ubuntu even downloads just the nvidia packages to compile the kernel on the spot adding it to your existing kernel. Once the kernel is ready. That's pretty much it. The kernel manager alone makes supporting variety of hardware setups across the board a non-issue on a gnu/linux system. It practically takes care of itself. With bazillion kernels to choose from there is not a system that it does not support. 4.Lastly, games. I have been luckily enough that my favorite windows games works just fine on steam for linux. It really boils down keeping the kernel or kernels up to date as well as steam proton. It really does boils depends on the games you play. But i will say this, gaming on linux is to the point where you can replace windows (again, depends on the games your play) Its only going to keep getting better as time goes on thanks to the steamdeck. Me personally, i could care less about multiplayer games so this whole anti-cheat issue is no brainer for me. I tend to enjoy the yesteryear of gaming and those works really well on linux. Even way better than on windows. And there you have it. This has been my first-hand experience ever since i jumped to linux almost 4 years ago.

[@stfoggy124]

most software options try to shadow windows, or you can use the exact same hardware, so i do believe there are instances where the fact you need compatibility layers is mildly looked over, its not that big of an issue either, its like when you need to install a launcher to play minecraft or when you install office to access the office suite, the difference being you have to figure out if the software is compatible and now, in most cases it just is

[@normanhunter7]

I used windoz 3.1 up to 10 and switched to linux 3 years ago and found it a relatively easy transition, im no expert by any means but i know my way around both systems as an average user for daily tasks and Linux wins hands down

[@DistroUser]

I was a windows user up until 2005 (self taught) and eventually was seeking something different or better in some ways. That is where Linux came into the picture and I never looked back! With the accessibility of the internet and all the free technical help online you have little reason not to explore LInux. It isn't rocket science but there some limitations for some users. If you are like me and only need to do banking, browsing, shopping, writing, and some hobbies in music, photography and video...Linux may be all you need. If you require a specific Windows application that has no equivalent in Linux then stay in Windows! I think there are some people who are not motivated to learn anything new and isn't that what life is all about?

[@that8bitgamer82]

I been using Windows since I was 17, I'm now 41 and still use Windows. I tried Linux a few times but it's hard for me to get into Linux. If someone can make Linux more driver compatibility, easy to install and setup. After using Windows for 24 years, I don't see myself replacing Windows for Linux unless Microsoft messes up big time with Windows.

[@Rabziggy]

Sorry to say, but Microsoft has already messed up big time. There are adverts in windows itself, everything you do is sent back to MSoft for their "improvement" for their users, and your Windows system is bogged down, by all of this. I'm a Windows user myself, and I'm starting to make the transition to Linux, as according to Microsoft my CPU is too old to run Windows 11. I have plenty of ram, 4 core 8 thread CPU, Ssd's for storage, and TPM2.0. File Explorer randomly closes when it wants to, no explanation or error. I turned off the telemetry in Windows, and my system feels a lot faster and my CPU usage has gone down a lot. Microsoft has lost my trust, and I don't want to be their product anymore. I'm trialing Linux mint at the moment on a spare laptop, and assessing available software so I can make the move permanently. Ps. I'm 54 now, and have been using windows for over 30 years all the way from Windows 3.1, and I've had enough of shady tactics from MSoft.

[@spede1]

Linux has gotten a lot easier now. I rarely have driver issues. The main problem is software, unless you dont mind off brand alternatives and do not game.

[@dingokidneys]

As the other guys have said, driver problems have become very rare in Linux, even with Debian which was sticking to the libre software path pretty hard. They've made it easier in Debian 12 to use non-free drivers and software though frankly I'd suggest that any Windows user start out with Linux Mint as it's easy to install, has great driver support and a good selection of software. I'm 62 and started out working on DOS 2.1, worked through the Win3.x, Win9x, Win[XP,7,Vista,10] eras but started using Linux as well from about 1995. I'm exclusively on Linux these days as Windows has just become too weird and clunky to manage. It's also wildly aggravating with updates at inopportune times, ads creeping into the OS and BLOATWARE. My 66 year old brother, for whom I provide IT support, uses Win10 but when he needs a new OS I'm going to move him onto Linux as he gets himself into too much trouble with Windows and every time there's an update that effects the UI he doesn't know what the hell he's doing. Linux Mint will look very Win95/XP to him and he'll know where he is and how things work.

[@jackkraken3888]

The driver compatibility issue really depends on the hardware though. Do you have very newer hardware? Then it might be an issue on certain distros. I would highly suggest you try on a secondary PC and see what happens. Linux is getting really good and Ms Office or some commercial applications you might be surprised how well you do!

[@WololoWololo2]

New hardware is best for Arch Linux cuz fast updates release

[@BuggsOp]

I tried popOS about a year ago and it was pretty good but I also like gaming and like to try niche and new games and I have to jump through so many hoops just to play and some games just don’t work or not compatible. I don’t want to have to dual boot every time I see a game I want to try out. If I wasn’t a gamer I would have switch to Linux

[@ominoussage]

Try coming back to it every year or so. Gaming improvement progress on Linux is very rapid!

[@earth2k66]

I will write my own experience, I have been using windows since 2012 when I got my first PC. From 2015 I constantly tried to switch to Linux but had issues with Hardware Acceleration and Heating issues on my old Laptop, so switched back to Windows. With Win10 added surveillance I had a tough time editing registries for skipping every thing and Win11 took things too far, removing the simple Offline account setup still I stayed on Windows and wasn't able to make the leap permanently until 2023. 2023 was a great year for Linux, things are much better and simple now from UI packages to Performance. I am very much comfortable and won't be going back to constantly "DEVOLVING" Windows again. I understand some people may get scared from using a terminal to do most things but it's worth once you got everything going.

[@tonywise198]

Good coverage. I use Linux but have to say it took me 2 or 3 years to be perfectly comfortable with it. What you say is true, though especially about gaming. Each to their own of course.

[@tomclark1213]

I haven't had a Linux/Steam gaming issue now for months but I only play co-op or single player games. Not into competitive shooters so that's the type of gamer that's going to be frustrated. But yeah two years ago, getting games to run on Linux sucked completely. Today, if you are a Steamer, just install the game you want to play (except competitive shooters).

[@birgerolovsson5203]

Windows 2000 Pro is my fav. I've hated Windows since XP, hated because of its Start-menus.

[@MindCaged]

You pointed out about beginners just beginning to master windows having problems, I personally have the opposite problem, I /long/ ago mastered windows, so starting over as a noob is a struggle and some of the niche software I use to customize my windows experience just doesn't have a perfectly equivalent alternative to some of it because it's software designed to customize/automate windows. It's frustrating because I can see some advantages to linux but they're rather conditional on what you need from your computer experience. And even though I acknowledge that linux /is/ better in those specific ways, those things are not a high enough priority for my needs/wants to make moving away from windows worth it. I'll keep messing around in my free time as I find the energy, but unless I stumble across something game-changing or become fluent enough that I can remake the functionality I need/want. I don't really think I can do it right now. So far the experience is either about the same or worse than windows, or /maybe/ a hair better for some things, but it's not a bit enough gain to overcome the loss.

[@AngeloGero]

A lot of what you said in the video is "spot on" from my experience. A few additional items that I want to mention. Hardware compatibility with newer devices such as printers, scanners, and WiFi adapters has long been a Linux issue. Many manufacturers simply do not support Linux. The other issue is document compatibility. If you have a lot of documents that were created in MS Word for example, you may have problems migrating them to Linux apps such as LibreOffice or OnlyOffice for example. The more more complex the document formatting, the more likely you may encounter problems. Yes, you can install Windows fonts, but that does not always solve the issue.

[@timroach5898]

I think gaming is getting better with steam on linux but thats only if the game you want to play is on steam

[@AndyGait]

I'm a Linux user. I have been since 2009, but I'm not a zealot about it. Your OS of choice isn't a religion. It's a tool. If that tool doesn't work for you, then use what does. I love and use Linux, but my PC is just that, mine. I can do what I need to do with it. My two daughters have different needs, one has a Mac, the other, Windows. It's what works for them. I'm not going to force my choice on them and make their life harder. Use whatever OS and software works best for you.

[@Britec09]

That's a good way of putting it Andy

[@needsLITHIUM]

Most recent games, as well as a lot of retro games, DO just work on Linux, either via Wine, and emulator like DOSBox, a source port, etc, assuming they don't already run native. The big issue is the DRM and anti-cheat. Even when it does support Linux, a lot of devs choose not to enable it, for some reason.

[@writerpatrick]

If you consider the range of software and the range of hardware supported, Windows has the advantage. Of course there's no rule you have to use just one OS, just as there's no rule against using multiple computers.

[@DeirdreYoung1]

Many average home users use 1% of any OS, Windows included. If you give them a GUI with a mouse and icons, they will actually be fine, even if they say they are "used to" their current OS. To many, an OS change works out to "the color of the icons is different".

[@stfoggy124]

the issues with glitchy and more drivers is humbuck, literally the fact is more people are developing those drivers, significantly more so than windows, so they tend to be more polished and just work. its also the case that linux has less bloat because of the fact that it doesnt try to install drivers and software that it doesnt need, it installs whatever you tell it to

[@ericimi]

The answer is yes , but one question I have is how do I play drm protected streams on Linux . I have tried lots of workarounds . Nba tv for example doesn't work no matter what browser your using even if you change user-agent .

[@AndrewKeifer]

You can have warm, white, buttered toast or you can have wheat toast without butter served sort of cold. You could get used to eating cold wheat toast and it could even grow on you. The choice is yours.

[@rickh8380]

Windows or Linux? It all depends on what applications you use on a daily basis and would you be able to do those tasks in Linux? Thanks Brian. Cheers

[@michaelmonstar4276]

Hey, you left out one of the best advantages of using Linux in general, regardless of the distro: It will make your computer faster, or at least use more of its potential. Because I've really noticed the exact same system becoming way snappier than when it ran Windows and I didn't even know my computer could do that. - It just goes to show that Windows is also just bloated. - So it's also a bit of a performance-upgrade, not just for older systems that are slower and work better with some relief, but even fast systems can be pushed a little further.

[@bengtmansson9672]

Yes. All I need for office work and serious audio and photo editing is there. Also super for programming.

[@Britec09]

Thanks for sharing

[@judewestburner]

You choose whatever makes you most productive whether it be Windows / Linux / MacOS.

[@Britec09]

valid point

[@Sub0x-x40]

I hard installed linux over the top of my windows 10, so the only path forward is through the linux tunnel

[@antoniom.andersen6704]

Only watched 1 minute of this video and I can tell you all that I've used linux back in the 90's and 2000's. Started gaming and transitioned to windows. Now that I don't game anymore I'm back on linux. So, is Linux Really BETTER Than Windows - short answer is it depends on what you use your PC for. Subbed just now.

[@Britec09]

Cheers for the sub

[@MrChili1496]

I have used windows since i 1st got into computers over 25yrs ago, recently i installed linux onto an old laptop. Once it was installed yes i liked the look of the os and actually having to type stuff, but i quickly thought to myself ok what now, installing a game was a pain, your right windows just works. Raspberry pi next :)

[@dingokidneys]

Different Linux distros focus on different things. If you are interested in gaming, try Nobara Linux built by a gamer/developer for gaming. It still remains Fedora under the hood so if you are interested in learning stuff that can be used in the enterprise, this is a good one as Fedora feeds into RHEL (Red Hat Enterprise Linux) and many tools and concepts carry over.

[@ZaberfangX]

I disagree some what with you saying that people not willling to learn a new operating system. Due to people coming from Windows 10 going to 11 are going to sit there learning a new operator system any how windows 11 very different from 10 or even a down to a new pc for some. Anyhow we will see hold out even down to paying Microsoft for abit longer.

[@arseniysemin1361]

I've been mac os/ windows user for really long time, and about a year ago decided to switch to Linux after using it at work for some time. I don't play games (in rare cases when I do, Steam made it a breeze to do, and I do have a windows hard drive in my system, I just didn't boot into it for months at this point), however I work in 3D Animation and do some freelance. Let me tell you if you're creative professional you don't need windows at all. If anything I was happy to release myself from Adobe, for office stuff I've been using google tools way before I planned the switch. Yes not everything is perfect and there are some things that took me a while to figure out. However once it was solved everything is a blessing. System is pretty snappy, less bloat, nothing is in your face, no random restarts that kill everything that wasn't closed, improved render times, and full flexibility of the system. Basically what I'm saying is it doesn't hurt trying, and in some cases, like mine, it can be very beneficial. I may sound like Linux advocate, but it's because I am. After so many years on Windows and Mac OS, I found something that just works, and if it doesn't you don't have to wait for overlord's blessing who likely will ignore the problem and shove more bloatware in your face.

[@TheCynysterMind]

I am a 25yr IT vet....in my youth I started out with apple 2E. Now I am sitting at my desk with 6 monitors 3 windows PC's, a Mac, and a NUC running Linux Mint. My Main every day system is Windows 10Pro...Plays all my Games and Databases... My 2nd is a windows 11 pro dual screen for my Adobe Apps Like Photoshop, Dreamweaver, My Mac is basically a waste of space but I run it to stay familiar with the mac ecosystem in case relatives need help. and that brings me to linux... I like it I like it a lot B U T the absolute 2 must haves for it to be my daily driver is MS Outlook.... There is *NO* comparable PIM (I use outlook for managing my life.... and oh yeah I use it occasionally for e-mail) and 2nd GAMES... sorry.. Linux MIGHT be able to play games but not nearly as many games are available and I do not have to screw with display drivers to get a particular game to work... Sorry Linux... until you get it so I can just install a game and play it immediately.... you wont be my daily driver.

[@paulreader1777]

It is true that learning new software and OS is difficult, but for many people familiar with Windows earlier versions transitioning to Win 10 and 11 (and probably 12) is rather like learning a new operating system. I am relatively comfortable with both and generally prefer to use Linux now unless forced to use something like MYOB. Now in my 70's and associating with people my own age and older I find many of them struggle with almost every change Windows (Microsoft) makes. I don't generally recommend moving to Linux on personal hardware but in our Men's Shed we are standardised on Linux for most things and I encourage people to investigate open source alternatives that work quite happily on all platforms (and in general they are getting better at that). Talking about Microsoft needing to tailor their OS for an increasingly bewildering range of hardware it would, of course be much easier if they abandoned linking the OS to hardware for OEM's (but that would mean lost revenue). Equally the open source developer community does an amazing job to adapt their software to all three major OS systems. Again, perhaps this is made easier by not having to code against pirating and hacks (another expensive option for proprietary developers).

[@needsLITHIUM]

I have Windows installed as a fallback, and because I have some paid VST's (and some free ones I really like) for audio production that only work on Windows, unless I want to go into the world of wine VST bridging and all that. These days, I'm debating whether to take that plunge, since even Windows 10 keeps getting worse. My laptop runs MX Linux, and I have a separate NVMe drive on my Windows system that has HoloISO on it. My second desktop runs Win10 AME, and I'm debating whether to replace that with either MX Linux or AV Linux, and put AME on my main system instead, since AMD drivers play nicer with the lack of the Windows Store than the Nvidia ones I need for that system.

[@MrBmarx]

You are right Brian: Linux is tailor made for advanced users and in my opinion, regarding what people do on a daily basis should incite them to use Windows and protect it, doing their tests either in the sandbox or in a virtual machine which could be, for part of them, a MacOS partition. What do you think? How about taking the best of these two worlds?

[@Paulzpc]

HA! I have seen a lot of these comments " Just install Linux" has become a bragging right not everyone can operate Linux and this is why they are trying to become as close to Microsoft as possible, Microsoft is greedy and ridged, but easy to use, Linux is mostly free but you have to pay attention and work at it, but at the end of the day it's up to you.

[@AleksandarMilicevic-mm3mp]

Good comment. There is a lot to learn if one wants to use Linux, but o.k, than we must learn. MS is greedy big tech company without any ethic. "Windows promise", and they braked every single one. Char GPT is corrupting students by writing their essays instead of them. With Linux we can still be humans, but with MS, we are done soon.

[@mrright1068]

Well said. Everyone would flock to linux if the app ecosystem worked as well as it does on windows. Many windows users are moving to mac which is interesting.

[@3040-f9g]

As a Linux user, I fully acknowledge that many Windows users will not get on with it. Linux is not inherently more difficult, it's just very different and you have to be prepared to learn how use it properly. It helps if you're a bit of a geek.

[@tg5441]

Yes you are right they are different os and I would say you have a quite stiff learning curve if you want to change to Linux I choose Debian 12 because it can suit my hardwares quite perfectly, and it takes less resource than Windows and performs better. I have learnt how to build PXE server, samba, nginx and work around with openwrt, and they are build on KVM, etc. I have taken 30 pages of notes for the commands and procedure when I work around with Linux Gaming and remotedesktop are not good when comparing with Windows. Anyway I am still learning this new host os and I am sure I need to start later anyway if not start from now.

[@matthiasbendewald1803]

I generally agree to what you said. I have some remarks: 1. My experience with who can use Linux and will be just fine is the opposite of yours. The people who just use their computer to do some office work, browsing and sorting photos, like my 81 year old dad, can just use Linux and have less issues than under Windows. The advanced user, who has experience with Windows and uses special hardware, already know how to fix issues under Windows - yeah, their knowledge will be put back to beginner level, and many will not like that. 2. Gaming is really good under Linux today. Some games still don't work, but if you are an occasional gamer who doesn't do too much online gaming or doesn't care about some games not running... The experience will be the same as on Windows.

[@dalecorne-new-mtv]

Another good video. Thank you for helping. I have to say that I have tried quite a few different distros of Linux, and I liked them all. My big issue is the software. There are certain apps that I've used for many many years, and they just don't work correctly in Wine. I also like to make my OS look like a different OS when the mood strikes me, and that is not an easy thing to do in Linux. I'll just stick with Windows 10 for as long as I can and worry about my next OS when the time comes. My absolute favorite Linux OS to use was Zorin OS 16 Pro X64.

[@notjustforhackers4252]

"I also like to make my OS look like a different OS when the mood strikes me, and that is not an easy thing to do in Linux. "...... you're kidding right?

[@nadtz]

It's actually much easier to change desktop environments or theme what you are using to look different, much easier than windows where you have to install some program that runs on top of the GUI to change things. I can understand if you say you don't know how to do it, but once you do it's definitely easier.

[@lisab3396]

Amazingly good timing. I'm seriously considering going to Linux. I think I watched this video months ago and forgot about it. I'm using Win10-Pro. MS updates are increasingly preventing me using my older software such as Word and Email as the main ones. I try to open Word, it flashes on screen and closes. More recently, I cannot do simple things like cut and paste in Outlook. So I switched back to the older Hotmail/Outlook and I can do cut and paste! I'm a novice user and don't get into a lot of programs but I do need the basics on a regular basis. I've paid for my software and I'm not keen on paying them subscriptions. It's all arm twisting by MS in my opinion. They could leave the old software alone, but they are actually blocking it. 🤬🤬

[@haxwell901]

I don't think either OS is better than the other (Windows or Linux), both OS have UI that anyone can use easily and both have decent apps for the average pc user like video/music player, file manager, internet browser and word processor( there is onlyoffice in Linux now which is basically ms office). Windows does have more professional applications than Linux but that only makes it more convenient to use not better than Linux, the reason Windows has more apps is because A lot of people are using it so it's more profitable for software companies to make software for it and if Linux user base grows as big as Windows' those companies(like Adobe) will have no problem developing software for Linux. The only big difference between Linux and Windows is that YOU'LL NEVER OWNER WINDOWS and they can do whatever they want with it, while when you install Linux, it is basically yours, you can have it's source code everything about it can be under your control.

[@WalterPetrovic]

The last couple of W10 updates I have had on my home PC really seem to screw up the PC, mostly in the file transfer area, and browser. For several months I have been running Linux Mint CInnamon on laptops I upgraded to SSDs and upped the RAM and I am reaching a point where I just have to switch to Linux in 2024 because how great it is. I am sick and tired of having to pay, or be threatened to pay, for anything, anymore, especially Windows and related software. Linux is Free. Most distros don't give issues (except for MX Linux which fried the motherboard of a brand-new laptop). That laptop was cheap and it refused to install any manner of windows on it. I managed to get Zorin 16.3 on it but it still had some hardware issues, but it worked. I should have left it alone. Linux is free. Almost ALL software to run on Linux is free. Many Windows-like software are available for FREE. FREE is FREEDOM and means you are not subject to the whims of the big corporations, anymore. Also, if you get tired or fed up with Windows or MacOS, what other alternatives do you have? Linux has hundreds of distributions you can choose to switch to, if you get tired of the one you are using. FREEDOM! Now, if there were FREE social media that were not hypocrites about "Community Standards", then we could all realize real freedom.

[@ThermalLance-hg4rd]

I use EndeavourOS. Took some time to learn to use it properly. But, I am happy with it.

[@AndrewKeifer]

I've spent my whole life on Windows, but I've also dabbled with Linux and what I've found is that Linux isn't as well supported as Windows, which should be patently obvious already. I spent some time on Pop! OS with KDE not so long ago and I found that I could use it just fine for all sorts of desktop applications, surfing the web, watching KZbin videos, etc. It was 95% as usable as Windows for me. Unfortunately, I'm also a gamer and that's where about 4% of the 5% was missing. I couldn't join my friends in some of the games they'd play and it was very often the case that there wasn't a work around for it. The other 1% was just having to troubleshoot hardware issues that simply don't exist in Windows. Experienced Linux users would probably poo poo my bringing those things up, and treat them as trivial. In the end, I went back to Windows to get back that 5% of user experience I was missing. I really liked Linux and I hope one day they can make it work just as good as Windows in the areas I need them to. For those of you who've stuck with Linux, good for you! More power to you!

[@CFWhitman]

The description of the issues with gaming in Linux was not really accurate. For the most part when using Steam you won't have to jump through hoops to get your games to work on Linux (there may be a few games where you can jump through some hoops to get them to work on Steam, but that's unusual). For the most part, the problems are that some games in Steam just won't work, hoops or not. If you are heavily into online competitive games that use anti-cheat, then some may work, but many will just not because of the anti-cheat problems mentioned in the video. It's for games outside of Steam you will most likely have to jump through some hoops to get them to work (assuming you are using Windows games).

[@alok.01]

For me linux just works, I don't need to do anything with photo editing but I am into web development and linux is literally a beast in that segment. Managing the os and other things just works perfectly after setting it up once. No need for stupid Wampp

[@pmccarthy001]

I think Linux is superior for the command line. Many of the shells, and command line apps are really meant for Linux even if there are Windows ports for most of them. When it comes to GUI apps though, that's where I think Windows has the advantage. In many cases there are now adequate Linux substitutes for common apps, but certainly anything to do with work and you'll probably need Windows. And as Brian said, it's still common with Linux for things just not to work, and it can be very difficult to make them work. Windows is just easier, at least for GUI apps. Although some of my PCs might well get Linux when Windows 10 EOL comes upon us. Windows is getting more expensive to keep up with and I'm not rich.

[@paulwarner5395]

Thanx for the video. I've worked with *.Nix since 1990 mainly on voicemail system . I have a desktop with Linux Mint here at home but don't use it as a daily driver because of the lack of Microsoft Outlook. The rest of Office is fine on Linux. I have tried a Win 11 VM on Linux and it works OK after seeing your video on how to do this. Not the fastest machine .

[@daveginboav]

Apparently many ingrained Windows users and advocates have managed to use mobile phones and yet the ironic thing is behind the facade of the UI lies a form of Linux. Like many things in this world it is important not to rely on one single way of doing things. DATA is king and more than one OS and more than one device that can access your data is much better than relying on Windows only.

[@harryviking6347]

I have always used windows and tried Linux. That was a complete shock to me and I just swallowed a Camel and went back to basics windows again.

[@davidjeter5067]

In the process of switching to Mint, learning the command line. Proton is AMAZING!!! Games from Steam library (Doom 2016, Resident Evil Remakes, etc), run as though they are running natively! For me, I could care less about online shooters or MMO's, I play Mass Effect games or Final Fantasy, indie, GTA, etc. Anti Cheat issues arent affecting me. Some games have some stuttering issues that in time will be fixed as Valve keeps updating Proton, but I am convinced Linux is the future of pc gaming within 10 years assuming the Steamdeck keeps being successful. This also depends on a version of Linux where a beginner never looks at command line if they dont want to. I have read more often than not, lower FPS in Windows 11 in Steam games. Got Fruity Loops to install in Wine and be stable. If I could get all my Native Instruments Kontakt libraries to install (there are work arounds, will get them installed), if I can get that done, bye bye Windows. You are right that Windows is more polished for end user as much as I have fallen in love with Linux.

[@Emancipatriot]

It really comes down to what your priorities are. If you value familiarity, and wider program support you will want to stay on windows. If you are tired of and would like to limit telemetry data, value the libre and open source philosophies, and you know your way around comfortably within windows you might want to give Linux a try. I will be the first to acknowledge that not everybody cares about this stuff. I am an avid arch Linux and hyprland user. That being said: switching to Linux is not for novices. If you are not afraid of learning to do certain tasks differently than what you are used to, then it will work out great. It won’t be any easier or harder than learning how to do tasks in windows, it’s just….. different. To your point I would definitely advise against photoshop users being on Linux, unless you have a secondary drive you can boot from with windows on it. I would recommend avoiding programs like adobe with it being a monthly subscription and proprietary software is not my preference but I digress.

[@imtiyazhasankhan]

I am a linux user it has been more the a year i switched to Linux, and i never needed windows only once 😞 when I have to use a specific software that weren't available in Linux and neither it can't be used in virtual box. ( Ignore English/grammer)

[@spacelem]

I'm sitting here having used exclusively Linux now for about 20 years, did all my PhD and postdoc work on it. But now my boss is insisting that I work with Microsoft Word ... sigh ... and I'm suddenly wondering: what would transitioning *to* Windows be like for me? Would I find things better there, or would I just be endlessly frustrated about the things I'm used to having not being there? I'm no longer familiar with Windows, I'd have to learn everything from scratch.

[@johngoard8272]

Well Brian I have used Linux Mint Cinnamon v22.0 in the past in fact I have it installed on a separate hard drive in one of my older machines. Now the things that really irritated me about Linux was that tedious need to have to use that sudo command type prompt to access certain features of the system or search for apps that Linux offer. The security of the system was always in the back of my mind too and I found it a little disconcerting not having a decent security setup. The one feature that I did find good was the Libre Office software - in fact I have it installed on all of my Windows machines because I find it easier to use than the Microsoft suite. There was also a feature that was tedious and that was the constant updating of apps that one had installed already on the system it took up a lot of the usage time. But after all that I do find the Windows OS quite a bit easier to use instead having fiddle around installing apps for example to give me the features I like and wanted on the system.

[@nadtz]

I'm confused, you complain about sudo then complain about security... You are going to have to explain in a little more detail for those 2 comments to make sense.

[@toddpark2893]

I want to transfer my document, music and photo files from Windows to Linux. Will it be a problem for Linux to read and edit my Window's files?

[@aeleequis]

Linux can read windows Exfat and FAT32 by default, NTFS can be read but it's not ideal. Windows on the other hand can't read any Linux File System (ext4,zfs,btrfs, etc) without additional third party programs.

[@mrbaba4355]

While I wouldn't say it's the best for everyone, there are several reasons I've been using Linux for three years. The full control it offers over apps, updates, and workflow, including cost-effective software options, is especially appealing. Its ability to breathe new life into older hardware by running smoother and faster makes it a great choice for anyone on a budget. If you're looking for an OS that empowers you and keeps your wallet happy, give Linux a try!

[@dianaalyssa8726]

I still use both. Windows is great for gaming quickly, but it's a bit less private even optimizing. Linux is nice just online service games that need patching am not sure it's a great idea, launchers can hard break on the backend. Then you end up back on Windows. They get fixed but it's a hassle. Dual boot is where I'm still living with both ntfs and ext4 files .

[@Noiconnotag]

What would be the best distro/version of Linux for a complete beginner ?

[@writerpatrick]

Zorin is designed for novices in mind. It's the most comfortable for those use to Windows.

[@dingokidneys]

Zorin has a WinXP look and feel to it and seems a good system. I usually recommend Linux Mint however as it is really nicely set up, has that WinXP look, makes absolutely no demands on a user to open a terminal session, updates cleanly and smoothly using a GUI and using Timeshift on a BTrFS file system makes resolving system breakages a breeze; not that I actually had any. I had to deliberately break the system in order to try that bit out properly. Try popping each on a bootable USB stick and run a live session of each to see how/if you like them. This does nothing to your underlying operating system until you make a decision to install one or the other. Have fun!!

[@bl00dknight26]

you can choose between ZorinOS, MX Linux, Pop_OS! and Linux mint but all of them will be good enough

[@tntori5079]

I did just switch to zorin. For windows users it is my fav distro and I love the interface. It was a bit tricky but I found I enjoyed the challenge. Truly I would actually advise someone like my grandma use linux. She doesn't game. She just goes into chrome for. . .well. . . Everything. And that's it. It's ironic that linux is actually better for non savy ppl. The icons are in english (ie the photnapp is called "photo" and those who dont game or use lots of apps and cant tell the difference between word and libre

[@Stripes404]

To an extent, yes. It's much better. But for most people, it's about the same. The point is: Once you go online and gloat about your favorite OS being "better" than others will always have backlash. Basically, the best OS ever is the one YOU love the most. To me, that's every Linux distro (except Manjaro).

[@hasse102]

One of the main problem with all Linux distros is the builtin paranoya that you need passwords for everything, even on computers that never will have access to internet. I have tried a couple distros but gone back to Windows to get rid of that problem. Right now is openmediavault the only linux I use but of course there are also problems with that as my dedicated XP computers cant connect to it.

[@notjustforhackers4252]

So you connect your Windows computer to the internet in Admin mode? WOW.

[@hasse102]

@@notjustforhackers4252 The XP computers are not connected to internet. One is a dj-laptop and the other is dedicated for film and sound editing, and specially built for that around 2008. These are only on the intranet. The problem now is I cant get them to connect to newly built Debian NAS. So I probably have to remove Linux from the system to get it to work. The one connected to internet is a win 10 computer behind evrything needed.

[@eviljagtech]

I have tried a few versions of Linux and outside of basic tasks I found it a massive pain to use. I though in truth have used windows sense MSDOS was a thing. I know most people will never touch Linux straight do to it's complexity and how rough of a OS it is. Until mainstream support comes to Linux it will never catch on outside of servers.

[@WillyEckaslike]

how about a video showing us how to install linux onto the computer that runs Windows 10 in a dual boot scenario...that way i can get to become familiar with linux while having the option to quickly switch back to 10

[@notjustforhackers4252]

"Explaining computers" has an excellent video explaining how to do that. I highly recommend his channel.

[@WillyEckaslike]

cheers @@notjustforhackers4252

[@zweiwing4435]

What do you think of React OS?

[@BULD0SIS]

Linux is used to power 96.3% of the world's top web servers. That should say enough in itself

[@jackkraken3888]

Eh that might not say what you want it to say. Companies are cheap and Linux if free except for support and developed apps. Although of course it's also more secure than Windows.

[@michaelmonstar4276]

Look, I know you probably see my comments saying to use Linux (I don't KNOW, I don't look back at responses, cause life). - But I'm relatively new to Linux. So when I comment something like "Just install Linux.", which I don't, I also add WHY it's viable and that it doesn't have to be the whole hassle and difficult for ever the average computer-user. - I might have experience and some know-how, but I really found that it has come to a point that certain(!) distros are just easy to jump into and could make it almost seamless to switch to for about anyone (I really wouldn't have recommended it just 5-10 years ago). Because some distros are made to be Windows-like (such as Mint or Manjaro) and some are a bit MacOS-like (such as most Ubuntu-distros), and some will allow you to change it to your liking (such as Zorin). Anyway, personally, I don't think the snarky blunt commentary of "Just use Linux" helps any, but by explaining as to why and how I do hope to encourage people to just try it out and see that there's a viable alternative indeed. Because it's not going well with Windows, which you can read from the general sentiment of users. - My own reason for being pushed away was that Windows was just unstable, even with a lot of care. It was the last time that it broke on me irrecoverably. I mean, it seriously locked me out of my computer multiple times over the year, which is just unacceptable! - Yea, no. I'll go with tried and true Linux-distros from now on. - I started with Ubuntu, went to the Ubuntu-based Pop!_OS (which is I recommend for beginners for user-friendliness OVER just Ubuntu), and now I'm considering moving to Manjaro if not Mint (they're a bit more fleshed out).

[@danilaros]

Hi. I’m a “beginner” user and a year ago I want to try something new and see what is out there as an alternative to windows. I find easy to install Linux, I install Mint, with some tutorials is very easy, I was surprise with myself😄 I like very much the stability and amazed wow fast is in my old PC. Is not easy in first to “change the chip” from windows, some pacience is need and I need to find some alternatives to software that I used to, like Microsoft Office, but is been working really well and if I indeed have still windows in my drive I don’t remember the last time I use it. I understand that not everyone can make the switch but for my case it work well.

[@BWGPEI]

My opinion is that our solution is unlikely to suit anyone else. What you need to use really depends on your background, and circumstances. Because we're both retired, we don't have to do MS Windows or MAC O/S and can try other things. Which I did on a hardware test system, where I could weed out Linux distributions that either did not work with our hardware, or meet my install criteria. It shocked me how many would not restart after the install, but in the last year that number has diminished drastically. We happened to settle on Linux Mint / Cinnamon, and have found it both stable and dependable on systems old or new. But I also have an old MS Windows 7 game box with a dedicated mouse port that I'm loath to give up. Yes I know that it will have to come off-line when the Avast support runs out, but in the meantime it's a working system. Lack of Microsoft support does not magically change that fact, grin.

[@darryltoombs1076]

I was a windows user from the first version of windows till windows 11 and one day I just had enough of windows and all of its flaws so i just installed linux. Was I an advanced user....not in any way at all. Did I have any problems in linux that I couldn't easily overcome...nope, and the problems were easier to fix than on windows. Even when I was on windows I used Gimp instead of Photoshop and they are so similar that the differences are inconsequential. My wife still uses windows and that is her choice but I will never go back to windows...ever. I bought a new mini pc that came with windows 11 but first thing I did was booted up gparted from usb.....wiped out the partions on the windows nvme....copied over my linux partitions to the clean nvme and booted back to my new pc. Like I said, I am not a computer geek and use a pc but have no idea about coding or computer stuff but linux is not hard. If you want to use the terminal then great but it is no way mandatory and I might use it about 2 times in 6 months if I am lucky. There are a lot more people switching to linux because of microsoft and their bully boy tactics and people can just use the machines they already have.

[@Dew4lk]

I use linux on my laptops, but for my gaming desktop i use windows. All applications may not be available on linux but there is usually always a alternative to it.