Windows Operating System Alternatives

What is Windows Operating System?

Microsoft Windows is a graphical operating system which users can use to view, create, and edit files and folders, play games, listen to music, and do a lot of other things. The first version of this operating system was Windows 1.0 and the current one is Windows 11. Two common editions of Windows include Home and Professional. New computers and laptops are pre-installed with this operating system.

Why Windows Operating System Alternatives?

Windows 11 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows and its disadvantages are as follows:

• Strict hardware requirements

• Not much compatible with old software

• Customization options are very few

• Control Panel not available

• Virtual desktop support is limited

• Search functionality is not as good as it was in Windows 10

How to choose a Windows Operating System Alternative?

Windows 11 has many advantages and some of them are listed below:

• The user interface is improved

• Improved performance than previous versions

• Security features are enhanced

• Visual quality of games is improved through Auto HDR

• Integration with Microsoft Teams

• Touch support improved

• Easy integration with Android

These advantages should be considered while looking for Windows alternatives

Top 10 Windows Operating System Alternatives

There are many Windows Operating System Alternatives and some of them have been discussed here in detail

Alternative 1 – Linux

Linux is a free alternative to Windows. The platform comes with a lot of guidance which makes it the best free operating system. Linux is an open-source software which consists of many alternative versions like Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and many more.

Alternative 2 – MacOS

MacOS also known as OS X is also a free alternative to Windows. You need to purchase an Apple computer on which this operating system is pre-installed. If you want to install the operating system on a non-Apple system, you have to create Hackintosh. If you purchase a MacBook Air or Mac Mini, the operating system will be available and you do not have to pay any money.

Alternative 3 – Debian

Debian is a free operating system which comes with basic utilities and programs. The kernel is available whose job is to conduct basic housekeeping so that other programs can be run easily. Currently, the Linux kernel is being used in the Debian computers Linux is a free and open-source operating system which is supported by many programmers to add new features and release new versions.

Alternative 4 – Ubuntu

Ubuntu is a Linux-based operating system which is a lightweight alternative to Windows. A RAM of 4GB and a hard disk of 25GB is sufficient for a system having this operating system. The versions of Ubuntu have long-term support and the operating system will receive security and maintenance updates for five years. The operating system is available for free.

Alternative 5 – Chrome OS

Chrome OS is another alternative to Windows but it can be used only on Chromebooks and can run only web-based applications. Standalone applications cannot be installed on systems having this operating system. It is a lightweight operating system and can be installed only on Chromebook devices. An Internet connection is not always needed as the OS does not rely on the cloud.

Alternative 6 – Elementary OS

Elementary OS is based on Linux and provides a user-friendly environment in comparison to Windows. The interface of the operating system is easy to use The most popular feature of the operating system is the Pantheon desktop environment. Settings panel and notification are available on the top while the clock is available at the bottom.

Alternative 7 – Fedora

Fedora is an alternative to Windows 10 and is popular for its features like customization, and development. The operating system has an open-source code and users are allowed to make different versions. The interface is simple and easy to use and you will not be distracted while performing your work. It comes with different tools and utilities along with different source languages.

Alternative 8 – Zorin OS

Zorin OS is considered as one of the best alternatives to Windows if the Graphical User Interface is concerned. It is a new operating system and is available in multiple versions. The Lite version is available for old computers while the free version comes with a few features. You need to go for the paid version to use all the features. Customization options are available in all three versions.

Alternative 9 – Solus

Solus is a lightweight and useful alternative to Windows. The operating system is based on Linux Kernel. Its user interface is simple and can be easily customized by installing different environments which include MATE, GNOME, Budgie, and many more.

Alternative 10 – ReactOS

ReactOS is similar to Windows and has been developed as a clone of Windows 95. The aim of developing ReactOS is to replace Windows 95 and users do not know about changes. The operating is compatible with old computers only. It requires a hard disk of 500MB and a RAM of 96MB.

Conclusion

Windows is a popular operating system and is being used by millions of users all over the world. The latest version of Windows is 11 which does not have a Control Panel. Few customization options are available and strict hardware requirement is needed for its insulation. There are many free and paid Windows alternatives and some of them include Ubuntu, Fedora, Solus, and many more.