Choosing an operating system is not just a matter of taste. In 2025, Windows and Linux are diverging more than ever: one offers a predictable experience with minimal configuration, the other—full flexibility, but depending on your knowledge and involvement.
Windows has a familiar interface, built-in drivers, support for QuickDocs and Photoshop, but you’ll pay for it: with money and with restrictions. Linux offers a system you can fully customize for yourself and use for free, but not everything works “out of the box.”
In this article, we compare Linux and Windows on key points:
Windows and Linux install in a similar way: download the image, write it to a USB drive, and start the installation. But then the differences begin.
Windows 11 already requires an internet connection and a Microsoft account from the start. Without this, the installation won’t continue. In addition, older computers face another restriction: the system requires a TPM chip and will stop installation if it’s missing. This is a special security module on the motherboard that ensures system integrity checks and is required to install Windows 11. After installation, the user doesn’t get a “clean” desktop, but a preloaded set of apps—App Store, widgets, Copilot, Xbox, OneDrive—some of which cannot be removed with standard tools. The system can also automatically update or download data in the background.
Linux (for example, Ubuntu or Linux Mint) works differently. Hardware requirements are usually lower and less strict, allowing installation even on relatively old computers. An account is not required, and an internet connection is often unnecessary for basic installation, although some distributions may offer to download updates during setup. The installation interface is also simple: choose language, time zone, and target disk. After startup, the user gets a minimally configured system: desktop, browser, file manager. Everything else can be installed later at your choice and convenience. The system does not take action without the user’s request.
And an important point: Windows requires a paid license. Without it, you face personalization restrictions and a watermark on the screen. Most Linux distributions are free and have no such restrictions, although some professional or enterprise versions may require a paid subscription or license.
This is one of the main questions before switching to Linux: will everything work? The answer, in most cases, is yes, but with nuances.
With Windows, it’s simple: install, and almost everything works. If something doesn’t, go to the manufacturer’s website, download and install the driver. Manufacturers officially support Windows, which is convenient.
In Linux, most devices usually work right after installation. Wi-Fi, sound, display, USB drives, mouse, keyboard, and even Bluetooth—all this will most likely work without extra configuration, especially if the computer isn’t brand new or built with rare components. But sometimes there are issues: for example, on some laptops, the Wi-Fi module may not be detected automatically; in that case, you need to install a driver via terminal. For NVIDIA video cards, it’s recommended to manually install the proprietary driver for full support and performance. Fingerprint scanners on new laptops often lack official support, and enthusiasts write drivers for them. With printers and scanners, results vary: some work immediately, others require manual fixes.
The advantage of Linux is that it’s not tied to new hardware. If you have an old laptop or PC that Windows 11 refuses to run on, Linux will most likely give it a second life. It doesn’t require TPM, doesn’t complain about a “too old processor,” and doesn’t force BIOS updates.
The downside is that not everything always works right away. Sometimes you need to read a short guide. Sometimes, type a command in the terminal. If you’re not afraid to spend 15 minutes fixing something, it’ll work out.
This is probably the main fear when switching to Linux: Can I still do what I used to do? The answer depends on what you use.
For everyday tasks, such as the internet, email, video, music, and documents, Linux poses almost no problems. Most distributions include everything you need: Firefox and Chrome, Telegram and WhatsApp, Zoom and OBS, VLC and Spotify, and office suites like LibreOffice. These apps work quickly and install through built-in stores.
Things get trickier with professional software. Programs like Photoshop, AutoCAD, QuickBooks, or CorelDRAW are made for Windows and don’t install directly on Linux. There are workarounds—emulators like Wine or alternatives (e.g., GIMP instead of Photoshop)—but they don’t always offer the same capabilities. If you work with QuickBooks or file tax reports through services like TurboTax, it often makes sense to use a second machine or a virtual Windows machine.
A few years ago, Linux was nearly unusable for gaming. Today, the situation is much better. Steam works great, and Valve actively develops Proton technology, which allows many games to run without extra setup. In ProtonDB’s compatibility database, many popular games are rated “Gold” or “Platinum.” Titles like Baldur’s Gate 3, Cyberpunk 2077, Elden Ring, The Witcher 3 run successfully.
However, there’s an important limitation: games using incompatible anti-cheat systems (e.g., Easy Anti-Cheat) may not run on Linux. Fortnite and Valorant are the most well-known examples. Also, some launchers like Battle.net or Rockstar Games Launcher may work unstably or require extra setup.
In short: for everyday work, Linux fits without major restrictions. But if you depend heavily on specific Windows software or often play multiplayer games with anti-cheat, check compatibility beforehand or consider dual-boot.
Many Windows users notice performance degradation over time. This happens due to the accumulation of temporary files, updates, hidden services, and background processes. Some things install automatically, some remain after uninstalled programs. Constantly running services like antivirus, OneDrive, or Cortana also increases resource load, especially on older or weaker devices.
Linux has similar mechanisms—temporary files, background processes, and updates exist in any OS. But they are fewer, and management is more transparent and predictable. The system doesn’t launch extra services without user request and doesn’t install new components without explicit consent. This helps maintain stable performance even after long-term use.
Important: Linux has no mandatory built-in antivirus, no ads, and no intrusive services. Users can always check which processes consume resources and disable them if needed. The system stays transparent and manageable, without hidden background tasks that can’t be disabled through standard tools.
Directly compared, Windows needs more regular optimization and maintenance to keep performance, while Linux tends to stay stable longer with minimal user effort.
Windows knows a lot about you. Even without extra configuration, the system by default sends telemetry data on how the device is used, which apps are launched, how often certain features are accessed. This is “to improve quality,” but it cannot be fully disabled with standard tools. Additionally, Windows requires Microsoft account binding, integrates with OneDrive, and shows personalized ads in the Start menu. Updates may download and install automatically without explicit user consent.
Linux usually offers a more transparent approach to data collection. Many distributions don’t collect telemetry by default and don’t require an account. Some systems, like Ubuntu-based ones, may enable anonymous stats collection, but usually this can be disabled during installation. In most popular distributions, users themselves decide what data to send and when, and updates only install with explicit request.
Security is also important. Because of Windows’ popularity, there’s a significant amount of malware. If users are careless or fail to update the system, the infection risk increases. Built-in antivirus helps, but doesn’t eliminate the threat.
Linux has a different security architecture. Installing programs requires superuser rights and explicit approval. Malware is much less widespread, and vulnerabilities are usually patched quickly. Installing from official repositories is like downloading from a verified app store, reducing infection risk.
In summary, Windows is integrated into Microsoft’s ecosystem and collects detailed usage data by default for analytics and personalization. Linux usually gives users more control over privacy and updates.
Windows allows customization within limits: change wallpaper and theme, move the taskbar, add icons, enable dark mode. But removing preinstalled components, disabling background services, or deeper interface changes often requires third-party apps or registry edits. Some elements can’t be changed at all with standard tools, like the Start menu, OneDrive integration, or built-in widgets. The result is an environment designed and tightly controlled by the developer.
Linux follows another philosophy. You can change literally everything. Users can choose between different desktop environments—from minimalist XFCE to visually rich KDE. You can even configure the system to boot without a graphical interface, keeping only essential components. Want a macOS-style desktop? No problem. In Linux, you can customize not just appearance, but behavior: how the network works, how drives connect, which services run, which commands are available.
Example: if you don’t want a file manager to auto-open when plugging in a USB drive, find the relevant setting or disable automount. In a minimal installation, you can simply skip unnecessary packages and services, leaving only what you need.
In conclusion, Windows offers a ready-made solution with limited customization, while Linux lets you build a fully individual environment tailored to your tasks and preferences.
Switching from Windows to Linux is like moving to another country. The basics are familiar: desktop, icons, folders, browser. But many things work differently. Programs aren’t installed via .exe files, but through a package manager, like an integrated app store. Settings may be scattered across different menus. Sometimes solving issues requires opening a terminal and entering a command, which may feel unusual at first.
But it’s not that scary. Most popular distributions have simple interfaces and large communities. Almost any question is already discussed in detail and documented. Just search for it and you’ll find step-by-step instructions. On Telegram chats and forums, you can get help and advice from experienced users.
Linux doesn’t demand deep admin knowledge from beginners. You can use it like a normal user: install a browser, office apps, media players, and work without complex settings. But if you want, you can learn more: scripting, system administration through terminal, automating tasks. This flexibility is like having a toolbox: you don’t need to use everything at once, but it’s good that they’re available.
In summary, Linux takes a bit more time to get used to, but in return offers more possibilities. Learning is not hard—especially if you have some patience.
For internet, movies, and documents: Both systems work. Linux provides all the necessary functions, doesn’t need a license fee, and usually runs faster on old hardware. Windows is more familiar, especially if you just want everything to work without tweaks.
For gamers: Depends on games. Many titles, including Baldur’s Gate 3, The Witcher, Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, run great on Linux. However, for games with strict/incompatible anti-cheat systems, such as Valorant, Fortnite, and GTA Online, choose Windows or consider setting it up as a secondary OS.
For office and communication: Linux fully covers documents, video calls (Zoom), browser, email. Often more convenient due to fewer ads and notifications.
For specialized software: If you use QuickBooks, AutoCAD, Photoshop, or submit reports via services like TurboTax, Windows is preferable. Such programs don’t always work properly in Linux, even with emulators.
For developers: Linux offers a very comfortable environment: tools like Git, SSH, Docker, Python, and web servers work out of the box.
For those who want stability without forced background services/updates: Linux is worth considering as your main system.
If you’ve never used Linux, start with a simple distribution. Here are good options:
Linux Mint: One of the most beginner-friendly options. An interface similar to Windows 7, everything works “out of the box,” and a convenient app store is available.
Ubuntu: The most well-known distro. Good balance of simplicity and modern solutions. Fits both beginners and developers.
Zorin OS: Great for those switching from Windows. The interface is very similar, and there’s a Lite version for weak computers.
Fedora: A modern distribution with great support for new hardware and advanced technologies Popular among advanced users.
Arch Linux or EndeavourOS: For those who want full control and aren’t afraid to learn. Everything is built manually, but in return, you fully understand the system.
You can try any of them in Live mode. Boot from a USB drive and test without installing. This helps you see if Linux suits you and which flavor feels right.
By 2025, it’s clear that Microsoft focuses on cloud integration, AI technologies, and creating a unified device ecosystem. Windows is gradually turning from a traditional OS into a service with subscriptions, regular updates, and features like Copilot. All this pushes users deeper into Microsoft’s ecosystem. At the same time, the system increasingly depends on online functions and accounts—without them, full use is difficult.
Linux is evolving differently, focusing on autonomy, minimalism, and privacy. Many users choose lightweight, control-oriented distros, including non-systemd options. The community doesn’t aim to create a universal “desktop for everyone”. Instead, it supports variety: from ready-to-use systems like Ubuntu and Linux Mint to highly customizable solutions like Arch Linux or NixOS. This lets users choose what best fits their needs: simplicity or full control.
In the end, the choice between Windows and Linux depends on user priorities. Those who value a familiar interface, ready-to-use apps, and Microsoft service integration will prefer Windows. Those who want control, transparency, and flexible customization may consider Linux as a full alternative.