I Reviewed G2’s 7 Greatest Working Programs for Work and Play

Right here’s a confession: I’ve spent extra time experimenting with working techniques (OS) than most individuals spend choosing out a brand new cellphone. 

I’ve labored in varied settings, from fast-paced workplaces and distant setups to startups the place I wore a number of hats, together with troubleshooting my tech. That’s given me loads of alternatives to attempt a number of the finest working techniques, each out of sheer curiosity and the need of my office. 

Whether or not it was reviving an historical laptop computer with Linux, juggling macOS and Home windows throughout distant setups, or determining which OS might deal with a day of intense multitasking with out breaking a sweat, I’ve tried all of them. 

Every OS has its quirks and strengths. Some delivered exactly what I wanted—intuitive design, seamless efficiency, and reliability. Others? Let’s simply say they taught me what to not search for. After testing extra setups than I care to confess, I’ve landed on my prime 7 finest working system software program. 

These aren’t simply the large names that dominate the market—they’re those that genuinely stood out for his or her performance, versatility, and the little particulars that make a distinction. When you’re seeking to improve your OS or simply interested by which of them are value your time, my record of finest working techniques has an answer for each want.

7 finest working techniques I attempted: My suggestions 

After I first began exploring totally different working techniques, I didn’t give a lot thought to what they really do. However the extra I used them, the extra I noticed an OS is far more than a system that lets me use my pc. It’s the invisible engine that retains my units operating easily, managing all the things from the information I save to the apps I take advantage of.

An working system bridges the hole between customers and {hardware}, translating clicks, faucets, and instructions into one thing a machine understands. Whether or not I’m sending an electronic mail, designing graphics, or operating intensive software program, the OS works behind the scenes to make all of it occur. A very good OS feels intuitive, like an assistant that is aware of what you want. 

This isn’t about one-size-fits-all options. The perfect OS for you is determined by what you want and worth most. However for those who’re on the lookout for persistently delivering choices, those I’ve chosen are value contemplating.

How did I select these finest working techniques? My guidelines

Testing totally different working techniques has taught me one essential lesson: the “finest” working system isn’t nearly flashy options or reputation—it’s about how nicely it suits my workflow. Those on my record stood out as a result of they excelled in areas that matter most to me: velocity, reliability, and suppleness.

When selecting an working system, I look past surface-level options like aesthetics or the newest gimmicks. The true take a look at lies in how nicely it performs below real-world situations and the way it integrates into your workflow. 

Right here’s an inventory of things I checked based mostly on what I’ve discovered from years of testing and utilizing working techniques in varied work environments:

• System useful resource administration: An working system’s capability to allocate sources is important, particularly when operating a number of purposes or heavy software program, equivalent to video editors, design instruments, or growth environments. I paid consideration to how nicely the OS manages RAM and CPU utilization, significantly when operating quite a few open tabs or purposes. Some OSs are extra environment friendly with sources, whereas others devour extra, resulting in lag or slowdowns.
• File system and storage administration: Sure techniques have superior options like journaling (which retains observe of adjustments to keep away from knowledge loss) or higher assist for big file transfers. I thought of how the OS organizes and transfers information and the velocity of its inside file system. I additionally checked if the OS gives strong assist for exterior storage and might effectively handle disk house with out fixed reminders about storage errors or house administration.
• Multitasking and window administration: Managing a number of apps concurrently is a given, whether or not it’s a browser with quite a few tabs, a messaging app, a mission administration instrument, or testing environments. A purposeful OS lets me change between home windows, resize, and arrange them with out extreme friction. I evaluated options like digital desktops, split-screen choices, and job switching, very important for enhancing productiveness. I additionally thought of responsiveness when switching duties—any stuttering or lag is a dealbreaker for me.
• Safety and granular permissions: Past the fundamentals, like antivirus safety and firewalls, I regarded for working techniques that supplied granular management over permissions and safety. Options equivalent to necessary entry management (MAC), sandboxing, and file-level encryption ensured that my delicate knowledge stays protected. I additionally assessed whether or not the OS lets me management which apps can entry my information, digital camera, or microphone and whether or not safety patches are delivered with out disrupting my workflow. 
• Package deal administration and software program set up: When it got here to putting in or updating software program, I examined how straightforward the method was. OS package deal managers, like APT for Linux or Homebrew for macOS, made an enormous distinction in facilitating set up. I additionally evaluated how the OS addressed dependencies and versioning—whether or not I wanted to resolve conflicts manually or if the OS managed them routinely.
• Energy administration and battery optimization: An awesome OS optimizes battery life by dynamically adjusting efficiency relying on workload. I checked if the system included power-saving modes for idle intervals and routinely adjusted CPU utilization when operating on the battery. It’s important that the OS conserves the battery with out sacrificing efficiency, particularly throughout extra demanding duties.
• Community and connectivity: Stable community assist is important for environment friendly workflow, whether or not I’m within the workplace or working remotely. I reviewed how the OS dealt with community connections, particularly when switching between Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or VPNs. I additionally checked out how nicely it built-in with cloud companies and managed a number of community connections whereas prioritizing bandwidth for important duties.

If there’s one factor I’ve discovered, one of the best working techniques adapt to you, not the opposite method round. They don’t simply get the fundamentals proper—additionally they have the little extras that make life simpler, like built-in multitasking instruments or considerate updates that don’t disrupt your work.

The record under accommodates real person critiques from G2’s working system software program class. To be included on this class, an answer should:

• Handle a tool’s software program and exterior {hardware}
• Permit for simultaneous use of purposes
• Join with the central processing unit for reminiscence and storage allocation

*This knowledge was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some critiques could have been edited for readability.  

Home windows 11 combines a smooth design with highly effective performance. I’ve labored throughout a number of units over time, and Home windows 11 made a noticeable distinction in each feel and appear. The brand new interface is visually interesting, but it surely’s the efficiency enhancements that caught my consideration. The second I began utilizing it, I might inform the main focus was on making on a regular basis duties extra fluid and satisfying.

One of many standout options for me is snap layouts. I work with a number of apps and paperwork open directly, and this function permits me to rapidly prepare all the things on the display screen in a method that is smart for no matter I’m engaged on. Adjusting home windows into grid layouts was an enormous time-saver, and snap teams took it to the subsequent degree.

After arranging my apps good, I might save the format and return to it later, preserving me from consistently reorganizing my workspace each time I switched duties. 

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One other function I loved was digital desktops. I’ve at all times most well-liked utilizing a number of desktops to remain organized, and Home windows 11 made it seamless to create totally different desktops for particular duties. I arrange one for work, one for private shopping, and one other for analysis or leisure. 

Switching between them was fast and simple, and it felt like I had a wholly totally different setting for every sort of job. This made it a lot simpler to maintain all the things separate and keep targeted.

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On the efficiency entrance, Home windows 11 was impressively easy. From the second I booted it up, the system felt quicker, and purposes opened with minimal delay. Even when operating demanding packages like design software program or digital machines, the system remained responsive. It was additionally noticeably extra environment friendly when managing background processes, which helped my system keep fast even with so much occurring.

Nevertheless, one of many main drawbacks I encountered was the system necessities. To run Home windows 11, you want suitable {hardware}, together with TPM 2.0 and a supported processor. This meant that a few of my older units couldn’t make the soar, which was disappointing. Whereas I perceive the necessity for newer {hardware} to assist higher efficiency, it was irritating not with the ability to use Home windows 11 on units which might be nonetheless operating effective with Home windows 10.

One other facet that I didn’t love was taskbar customization. The brand new taskbar seems to be glorious however feels barely extra inflexible than Home windows 10. I couldn’t rearrange icons or create customized teams as rapidly, which made it tougher to personalize my workspace. I additionally missed the power to tug information instantly into taskbar apps.

These small adjustments could not seem to be a lot, however for somebody who likes to fine-tune their setting, they made the taskbar really feel a bit limiting.

What I dislike about Home windows 11:

• The strict {hardware} necessities meant I couldn’t improve a few of my older units, which was irritating, particularly given how nicely they have been nonetheless performing with Home windows 10.
• The taskbar felt extra restrictive than in earlier variations. I missed the power to maneuver icons round or create customized teams for fast entry.

What G2 customers dislike about Home windows 11:

“Home windows 11 has extra stringent construction requirements than Home windows 10, requested TPM 2.0 (Confided in Stage Module) and Safe Boot. This implies many older laptops aren’t suitable with the brand new ideas, which has pissed off some customers who have been hoping to improve their present machines.”

– Home windows 11 Assessment, Surendra Kumar J.

As somebody who depends closely on my cellphone for each work and private duties, iOS has persistently stood out for its seamless integration and intuitive interface. After utilizing varied variations over time, I’ve come to understand how Apple continues to refine the person expertise with out overcomplicating issues. 

iOS 18, the newest iteration, didn’t disappoint—it felt polished and full of options designed to make my day-to-day interactions smoother. Apple’s give attention to usability and innovation shines by way of once more, and the updates really feel purposeful slightly than flashy.

Whether or not it’s staying organized, related, or entertained, iOS 18 makes these experiences smoother and extra environment friendly.

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One of many standout options I appreciated was the interactive widgets. These aren’t simply static blocks of data anymore—you’ll be able to work together with them instantly from the house or lock display screen.

I used them to examine off duties in my reminders, management good residence units, and even reply to messages with out opening the apps. It’d seem to be a minor improve, however for me, it reduce down on the fixed app-hopping that eats into productiveness.

One other huge win for iOS 18 is its improved Highlight search. I used to be genuinely impressed by how intuitive and highly effective it’s grow to be. It now pulls real-time outcomes, from apps to paperwork to net strategies, and learns out of your utilization patterns.

Looking for an previous electronic mail attachment or a half-remembered app I downloaded months in the past was faster than ever. It even built-in actions instantly into outcomes—like beginning a timer or sending a message—saving me further steps.

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The Journal app was one other function I loved greater than I anticipated. It makes use of on-device machine studying to counsel moments to mirror on, like a current picture you took, a spot you visited, or perhaps a tune you performed repeatedly. I used it to seize fast ideas throughout busy days and mirror on highlights on the finish of the week. It felt private but unobtrusive.

I additionally appreciated the expanded sharing choices in iOS. AirDrop is as dependable as ever, however the NameDrop function took sharing contact data to a brand new degree. As a substitute of awkwardly typing out particulars or scanning QR codes, I might simply convey my cellphone near another person’s, and the knowledge transferred immediately. It’s small conveniences like this that make iOS really feel thoughtfully designed.

That stated, iOS isn’t with out its quirks. For one, I observed that a number of the older apps I depend on didn’t combine nicely with the brand new interactive widgets or highlight performance. I count on builders will deal with this over time, but it surely’s nonetheless barely inconvenient. One other problem for me was the storage necessities. The system replace took up a big quantity of house, which was a hurdle on my older iPhone with a smaller capability.

Lastly, whereas the main focus mode enhancements have been spectacular—particularly with the brand new capability to hyperlink particular focus modes to app utilization patterns—they nonetheless required intensive guide setup to get probably the most out of them. This may really feel a bit overwhelming for somebody who doesn’t wish to dive into customization.

One other draw back is the walled backyard ecosystem. Whereas Apple’s ecosystem works nicely for those who’re totally invested in it, it might really feel limiting for those who depend on non-Apple units. For instance, transferring information outdoors the Apple setting can nonetheless be a problem, and counting on proprietary instruments like iCloud typically felt overly restrictive.

What I dislike about iOS:

• Some third-party apps don’t totally assist the newest options, like widgets or Highlight, which felt limiting for energy customers like me.
• I really feel Apple’s ecosystem works glorious internally, but it surely’s not as handy when working with non-Apple units or companies.

What G2 customers dislike about iOS:

“iOS gives fewer customization choices than different working techniques like Android, which can be a draw back for customers preferring extra management over their system’s look and settings.”

– iOS Assessment, Prakhar G.

I’ve at all times been interested by Chrome OS, particularly as somebody who values light-weight, cloud-based options for productiveness. After spending vital time with it, I can say that Chrome OS is a incredible working system for customers who dwell and breathe throughout the browser.

Whereas it’s not designed to exchange conventional working techniques like Home windows or macOS for everybody, it excels in particular use instances, significantly for college students, distant employees, and those that prioritize simplicity over complexity.

One extremely handy function was the seamless integration with Google Workspace and the cloud. Logging right into a Chromebook immediately syncs my Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Calendar. This made it good for working throughout a number of units—I might begin a job on my desktop, choose it up on my Chromebook, and end it on my cellphone with out lacking a beat. It’s like my complete digital workspace was at all times only a login away.

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One other space that impressed me was the Android app assist. I might obtain and use varied Android apps by way of the Google Play Retailer, extending Chrome OS’s performance past only a browser. For example, I put in productiveness instruments like Microsoft Phrase, Slack, and Zoom, which labored surprisingly nicely. Whereas not all apps are completely optimized for Chrome OS, those I relied on most felt easy and intuitive.

I additionally appreciated the system’s velocity and ease. Chrome OS boots up in seconds, updates routinely within the background, and barely slows down, even after extended use. It’s excellent for attending to work with out coping with driver updates or system bloat.

That stated, Chrome OS isn’t good. One limitation I observed is its dependency on an web connection. Whereas apps like Google Docs have offline capabilities, the OS is undeniably at its finest when related to Wi-Fi. This might grow to be a hurdle for those who work in environments with spotty web.

Moreover, native file administration felt clunky in comparison with conventional working techniques. It may really feel restrictive for somebody who sometimes works with massive information or prefers organizing them regionally.

Lastly, whereas Chrome OS now helps Linux and Parallels Desktop for operating Home windows apps, these options are extra fitted to superior customers. Establishing Linux wasn’t as user-friendly as I’d hoped, and the efficiency of Home windows apps by way of Parallels was hit and miss.

What I dislike about Chrome OS:

• Chrome OS is internet-dependent, which implies some key options lose effectiveness with out a steady connection, limiting their utility in offline settings.
• The native file administration system feels fundamental and lacks the robustness of conventional working techniques like Home windows or macOS.

What G2 customers dislike about Chrome OS:

“It’s not for skilled utilization. If you’re a college pupil who has to put in many high-performing instruments equivalent to Android Studio, VS code, and Unity, you can’t work with Chrome OS. The identical goes for working professionals.”

– Chrome OS Assessment, Jahanvi R.

Crimson Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is a reputation that’s persistently popped up in conversations about enterprise-grade working techniques, particularly after I’ve spoken to IT groups and tech-savvy colleagues.

Whereas I don’t work in a hands-on technical capability, I’ve seen RHEL’s affect on enterprise operations firsthand as a marketer who collaborates intently with product and IT groups.

After I examined it myself, I targeted on the way it simplifies complicated workflows and helps enterprise environments. One of many first issues I observed was how reliable and steady RHEL is for managing business-critical techniques. Throughout my analysis, I noticed its status as a trusted spine in finance and healthcare—and it’s clear why. Even with a number of customers accessing sources concurrently, RHEL manages workloads seamlessly with out hiccups.

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I additionally explored Crimson Hat Insights, a built-in analytics instrument that proactively identifies system vulnerabilities and suggests enhancements. Whereas I didn’t deploy this myself, I mentioned it with crew members who used it to flag safety dangers and deal with them rapidly. For any group prioritizing compliance and safety, this function is a game-changer.

What intrigued me most was RHEL’s assist for simplifying repetitive duties utilizing automation instruments like Ansible. Whereas I didn’t dive into setting this up myself, I discovered the way it automates updates or system configurations in bigger setups. The suggestions from IT colleagues who use it usually confirmed how a lot time this protects.

Nevertheless, RHEL isn’t for everybody. The training curve can really feel steep for somebody coming from user-friendly working techniques like Home windows or macOS. The command line interface method may be intimidating for those who’re not used to working in Linux environments. It’s undeniably tailor-made for a technical viewers, and the training curve might be steep for those who’re unfamiliar with Linux-based techniques. 

And whereas the enterprise-level assist is incredible, the licensing value might be prohibitive for smaller groups or particular person customers.

What I dislike about RHEL:

• I didn’t discover RHEL to be beginner-friendly. The technical experience required makes it much less accessible for non-technical customers like myself.
• One other con I discovered was RHEL’s excessive licensing prices. This may occasionally not have an effect on each person however could be a potential barrier for smaller groups or startups.

What G2 customers dislike about RHEL:

“I dislike the steep studying curve, the shortage of business assist, and the finicky nature of the older, much less mature variations. Centralized administration is just not actually fleshed out, regardless that issues like WebVirtMgr might be configured. Upkeep might be tough. Migration from one host to a different is not very easy both.”

– RHEL Assessment, Evan L.

macOS Sierra was my first deep dive into Apple’s desktop working system, and it utterly reshaped how I seen workflow integration.

Sierra’s options instantly stood out as somebody who spends numerous hours juggling advertising and marketing campaigns, content material administration, and collaboration instruments. It’s not simply an OS—it felt like a sensible, intuitive assistant constructed to streamline work and on a regular basis duties.

One function that grew to become indispensable to me was Siri’s integration into macOS. This wasn’t nearly voice instructions and the way Siri match naturally into my workflow. Whether or not I wanted to seek for information rapidly, add calendar occasions, and even ask for instructions whereas multitasking, Siri felt like an extension of my efforts slightly than an added layer to handle. 

I vividly recall when it helped me retrieve a report from a chaotic file system with only a fast query—saving me valuable minutes earlier than a gathering.

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One other standout was optimized storage, which felt tailored for content-heavy professionals. After I first encountered the dreaded “disk nearly full” notification, I dreaded spending hours sorting by way of information. As a substitute, Sierra dealt with it seamlessly by transferring older, less-used information to iCloud whereas leaving generally accessed ones regionally. It wasn’t flawless—at occasions, I needed I had extra management over what went to the cloud—however for probably the most half, it relieved the storage nervousness I’d been dwelling with.

I additionally cherished auto-unlock with the Apple Watch. Whereas it’s a minor function, it impacted my day-to-day productiveness. With one much less password to enter, I might soar straight into work, which, when repeated dozens of occasions a day, added as much as saved time and fewer frustrations.

Regardless of its strengths, Sierra isn’t good. Common clipboard guarantees seamless copy-pasting throughout units however looks like a letdown, typically. Switching between my iPhone and MacBook labored splendidly about 70% of the time, however the syncing delays disrupted my move when it did not. 

Equally, whereas iCloud integration made all the things extra accessible, it nudged me into upgrading my storage plan earlier than anticipated. It’s a seamless ecosystem however not an inexpensive one.

What I dislike about macOS Sierra:

• Common clipboard glitches end in inconsistent syncing throughout units and interrupt my workflow extra usually than I’d like.
• iCloud storage is dear and closely reliant on the cloud, rapidly changing into an extra expense.

What G2 customers dislike about macOS Sierra:

“As a consumer, macOS Sierra gives a unprecedented association that could be priceless with its predictable combine, solace, additional growth of parts, and by and huge high quality. Whereas it is an astonishing working construction, there are dependable locales for enchancment. Regardless, specializing in the optimistic factors, Sierra’s sources overshadow any minor disservices.”

– macOS Sierra Assessment, Jaykumar Okay. 

As a marketer who spends lots of time testing apps, creating content material, and staying related, I do know that Android has at all times stood out for its versatility.

In contrast to different working techniques tied to particular {hardware}, Android’s open nature and flexibility permit it to work throughout varied units, from budget-friendly smartphones to high-end flagships. I’ve explored Android on units like Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy; every expertise introduced one thing distinctive.

There are not any surprises right here, however one of the best function I recognize about Android is its customizability. Android lets me tailor my system to suit my workflow, from widgets and launchers to system-level tweaks.

For example, I used Nova Launcher to create a house display screen that prioritizes my most-used apps and shortcuts for advertising and marketing instruments. The extent of management feels empowering, particularly when juggling a number of instruments every day.

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One other power of Android is its seamless integration with Google companies. Since my skilled life revolves round instruments like Google Drive, Calendar, and Docs, deeply integrating these apps into the OS has been an enormous productiveness enhance. Android makes the method practically frictionless after I must rapidly share a draft or examine marketing campaign metrics on the go.

One space the place Android shines for me is split-screen multitasking. Whether or not I’m drafting concepts in Google Preserve whereas referencing a doc or operating two apps facet by facet throughout a gathering, this function feels extremely sensible. I’ve relied on the flexibleness to do extra in much less time, particularly after I’m away from my desk.

That stated, Android isn’t with out its quirks. With such a various vary of units, software program updates might be inconsistent, relying on the producer. On my Samsung system, I typically needed to wait months for updates that Pixel customers obtained instantly. 

Moreover, bloatware—pre-installed apps that I didn’t ask for and couldn’t take away—was a light annoyance, particularly on non-Google units.

What I dislike about Android:

• Inconsistent software program updates are one of many few issues that frustrate me about Android. On my older Samsung system, I usually waited months for updates my pals utilizing Pixel telephones instantly obtained. 
• I’ve encountered pre-installed apps that I didn’t ask for and might’t uninstall on particular units, which is annoying. They litter the interface and take up house that might be higher used for the apps I would like.

What G2 customers dislike about Android:

“Whereas I get pleasure from varied features of Android, I additionally face some points that may be annoying. On account of producers making use of their very own customized skins and software program, the platform is usually fragmented, inflicting inconsistent person experiences throughout units.

Although this delays updates and causes variations in efficiency, there are different issues that one may face, equivalent to battery drains once in a while. This may occasionally result in compatibility issues with sure purposes that don’t justify the sufferings of complete battery failure. Nevertheless, however these challenges, Android stays a viable choice for most individuals as a result of it has extra benefits than disadvantages.”

– Android Assessment, Asit D.

After I first began exploring Ubuntu, it was extra out of curiosity than necessity. I’d heard so much about its status as a free, open-source working system, and I needed to see if it might maintain its personal for advertising and marketing workflows and content material administration. 

After spending just a few weeks with it, I can confidently say that Ubuntu is a standout choice, particularly for those who recognize flexibility and aren’t afraid to tinker a bit.

The very first thing that struck me was how easy Ubuntu feels, even on older {hardware}. I put in it on an older laptop computer, gathering mud in my closet, and the transformation was unbelievable.

Duties like operating a browser with a number of tabs, writing reviews in LibreOffice, and even working with light-weight design instruments have been lag-free. It felt like a recent begin for a machine I had nearly written off.

One function I appreciated was the GNOME desktop setting, which powers Ubuntu’s person interface. Coming from macOS and Home windows, I anticipated some awkward transitions, but it surely was surprisingly intuitive. 

I appreciated the simplicity of the navigation—all the things from accessing information to managing home windows with a number of digital desktops was easy. Plus, you’ll be able to customise the format extensively, tailoring it to suit how you’re employed. For instance, I added a dock with shortcuts to my most-used apps, making multitasking seamless.

One other spotlight for me was Ubuntu’s Software program Middle. Consider it as an app retailer the place you’ll be able to set up all the things from productiveness instruments like LibreOffice to extra area of interest software program like GIMP or Inkscape for mild graphic design work. The repository has an enormous choice, and you’ll set up nearly something with just a few terminal instructions. This was significantly helpful after I wanted to check new apps or discover instruments that weren’t simply accessible on different platforms.

Nevertheless, organising Ubuntu and making certain all the things works as anticipated requires persistence. For instance, driver compatibility was a difficulty for me. I bumped into bother getting my printer to work and hung out looking neighborhood boards for options. It’s doable however not as plug-and-play as macOS or Home windows.

Safety is one other sturdy level of Ubuntu, but it surely comes with a value. Whereas I felt assured realizing it’s much less susceptible to malware or viruses, the shortage of official buyer assist means you principally depend on boards and neighborhood guides to unravel issues. This may be irritating while you’re on a good deadline or want fast fixes.

What I dislike about Ubuntu:

• For me, getting all the things to work—particularly peripherals like printers or exterior units—wasn’t at all times easy and required some trial and error.
• Whereas there’s a wealth of guides and boards, I discovered the shortage of official assist a hurdle when troubleshooting pressing issues.

What G2 customers dislike about Ubuntu:

“Typically it’s a bit irritating when particular {hardware} drivers aren’t readily supported, making the convenience of integration troublesome, and it’s a must to dig round for options. Additionally, some skilled software program doesn’t at all times have the identical degree of assist as different working techniques, which might be limiting at occasions.”

– Ubuntu Assessment, Dr. Will Hernando R.

So, which working system will you select to energy your world? Try the newest working system statistics for extra data.