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

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

I’ve labored in numerous 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 among the greatest working programs, each out of sheer curiosity and the need of my office. 

Whether or not it was reviving an historic 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 high 7 greatest working system software program. 

These aren’t simply the massive 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. For those who’re trying to improve your OS or simply inquisitive about which of them are value your time, my record of greatest working programs has an answer for each want.

7 greatest working programs I attempted: My suggestions 

Once I first began exploring completely different working programs, 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 laptop. It’s the invisible engine that retains my gadgets working easily, managing the whole lot from the recordsdata 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 working intensive software program, the OS works behind the scenes to make all of it occur. OS feels intuitive, like an assistant that is aware of what you want. 

This isn’t about one-size-fits-all options. The most effective OS for you depends upon what you want and worth most. However if you happen to’re in search of persistently delivering choices, those I’ve chosen are value contemplating.

How did I select these greatest working programs? My guidelines

Testing completely different working programs has taught me one essential lesson: the “greatest” working system isn’t nearly flashy options or recognition—it’s about how nicely it matches my workflow. Those on my record stood out as a result of they excelled in areas that matter most to me: pace, reliability, and adaptability.

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

Right here’s a listing of things I checked primarily based on what I’ve discovered from years of testing and utilizing working programs in numerous work environments:

• System useful resource administration: An working system’s capacity to allocate sources is important, particularly when working a number of functions or heavy software program, resembling video editors, design instruments, or growth environments. I paid consideration to how nicely the OS manages RAM and CPU utilization, notably when working quite a few open tabs or functions. Some OSs are extra environment friendly with sources, whereas others devour extra, resulting in lag or slowdowns.
• File system and storage administration: Sure programs have superior options like journaling (which retains monitor of modifications to keep away from knowledge loss) or higher assist for giant file transfers. I thought of how the OS organizes and transfers recordsdata and the pace of its inner file system. I additionally checked if the OS presents strong assist for exterior storage and may 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 undertaking administration software, or testing environments. A purposeful OS lets me swap between home windows, resize, and set up them with out extreme friction. I evaluated options like digital desktops, split-screen choices, and activity switching, 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 seemed for working programs that provided granular management over permissions and safety. Options resembling obligatory 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 recordsdata, digicam, or microphone and whether or not safety patches are delivered with out disrupting my workflow. 
• Bundle 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 a giant 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 amazing OS optimizes battery life by dynamically adjusting efficiency relying on workload. I checked if the system included power-saving modes for idle durations and routinely adjusted CPU utilization when working 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 providers and managed a number of community connections whereas prioritizing bandwidth for important duties.

If there’s one factor I’ve discovered, the very best working programs adapt to you, not the opposite means round. They don’t simply get the fundamentals proper—in addition 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 opinions 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 functions
• Join with the central processing unit for reminiscence and storage allocation

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

Home windows 11 combines a glossy design with highly effective performance. I’ve labored throughout a number of gadgets through the years, and Home windows 11 made a noticeable distinction in each feel and appear. The brand new interface is visually interesting, however it’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 fulfilling.

One of many standout options for me is snap layouts. I work with a number of apps and paperwork open without delay, and this characteristic permits me to rapidly prepare the whole lot on the display in a means that is sensible 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 following degree.

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

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One other characteristic I loved was digital desktops. I’ve all the time most popular utilizing a number of desktops to remain organized, and Home windows 11 made it seamless to create completely 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 straightforward, and it felt like I had a completely completely different surroundings for every sort of activity. This made it a lot simpler to maintain the whole lot separate and keep centered.

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On the efficiency entrance, Home windows 11 was impressively clean. From the second I booted it up, the system felt sooner, and functions opened with minimal delay. Even when working demanding applications 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 loads happening.

Nevertheless, one of many main drawbacks I encountered was the system necessities. To run Home windows 11, you want appropriate {hardware}, together with TPM 2.0 and a supported processor. This meant that a few of my older gadgets couldn’t make the bounce, 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 gadgets which can be nonetheless working positive with Home windows 10.

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

These small modifications could not appear to be a lot, however for somebody who likes to fine-tune their surroundings, 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 gadgets, 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 appropriate with the brand new ideas, which has pissed off some customers who have been hoping to improve their present machines.”

– Home windows 11 Evaluation, Surendra Kumar J.

As somebody who depends closely on my telephone for each work and private duties, iOS has persistently stood out for its seamless integration and intuitive interface. After utilizing numerous variations through the years, 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 deal with usability and innovation shines by means of once more, and the updates really feel purposeful relatively than flashy.

Whether or not it’s staying organized, linked, 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 knowledge anymore—you may work together with them instantly from the house or lock display.

I used them to examine off duties in my reminders, management good dwelling gadgets, and even reply to messages with out opening the apps. It’d appear to be a minor improve, however for me, it lower 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 turn out to be. It now pulls real-time outcomes, from apps to paperwork to internet recommendations, 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 characteristic I loved greater than I anticipated. It makes use of on-device machine studying to recommend moments to replicate on, like a current picture you took, a spot you visited, or perhaps a track you performed repeatedly. I used it to seize fast ideas throughout busy days and replicate 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 characteristic took sharing contact data to a brand new degree. As an alternative of awkwardly typing out particulars or scanning QR codes, I might simply convey my telephone 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 among the older apps I depend on didn’t combine nicely with the brand new interactive widgets or highlight performance. I anticipate builders will tackle this over time, however it’s nonetheless barely inconvenient. One other difficulty for me was the storage necessities. The system replace took up a major 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 capacity to hyperlink particular focus modes to app utilization patterns—they nonetheless required intensive handbook setup to get probably the most out of them. This may really feel a bit overwhelming for somebody who doesn’t need to dive into customization.

One other draw back is the walled backyard ecosystem. Whereas Apple’s ecosystem works nicely if you happen to’re totally invested in it, it might probably really feel limiting if you happen to depend on non-Apple gadgets. For instance, transferring recordsdata exterior the Apple surroundings 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 wonderful internally, however it’s not as handy when working with non-Apple gadgets or providers.

What G2 customers dislike about iOS:

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

– iOS Evaluation, Prakhar G.

I’ve all the time been inquisitive about 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 unbelievable working system for customers who stay and breathe inside the browser.

Whereas it’s not designed to switch conventional working programs like Home windows or macOS for everybody, it excels in particular use circumstances, notably for college students, distant staff, and those that prioritize simplicity over complexity.

One extremely handy characteristic 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 gadgets—I might begin a activity on my desktop, choose it up on my Chromebook, and end it on my telephone with out lacking a beat. It’s like my complete digital workspace was all the time only a login away.

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One other space that impressed me was the Android app assist. I might obtain and use numerous Android apps by means of the Google Play Retailer, extending Chrome OS’s performance past only a browser. As an illustration, 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 clean and intuitive.

I additionally appreciated the system’s pace 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 greatest when linked to Wi-Fi. This might turn out to be a hurdle if you happen to work in environments with spotty web.

Moreover, native file administration felt clunky in comparison with conventional working programs. It could really feel restrictive for somebody who often works with giant recordsdata or prefers organizing them regionally.

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

What I dislike about Chrome OS:

• Chrome OS is internet-dependent, which suggests some key options lose effectiveness and not using a steady connection, limiting their utility in offline settings.
• The native file administration system feels primary and lacks the robustness of conventional working programs like Home windows or macOS.

What G2 customers dislike about Chrome OS:

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

– Chrome OS Evaluation, Jahanvi R.

Purple Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is a reputation that’s persistently popped up in conversations about enterprise-grade working programs, 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.

Once I examined it myself, I centered 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 programs. 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 Purple Hat Insights, a built-in analytics software that proactively identifies system vulnerabilities and suggests enhancements. Whereas I didn’t deploy this myself, I mentioned it with staff members who used it to flag safety dangers and tackle them rapidly. For any group prioritizing compliance and safety, this characteristic 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 repeatedly 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 programs like Home windows or macOS. The command line interface strategy is perhaps intimidating if you happen to’re not used to working in Linux environments. It’s undeniably tailor-made for a technical viewers, and the training curve will be steep if you happen to’re unfamiliar with Linux-based programs. 

And whereas the enterprise-level assist is unbelievable, the licensing price will 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 will likely 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 dearth of business assist, and the finicky nature of the older, much less mature variations. Centralized administration will not be actually fleshed out, although issues like WebVirtMgr will be configured. Upkeep will be difficult. Migration from one host to a different is not very simple both.”

– RHEL Evaluation, Evan L.

macOS Sierra was my first deep dive into Apple’s desktop working system, and it fully reshaped how I considered 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 characteristic 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 recordsdata rapidly, add calendar occasions, and even ask for instructions whereas multitasking, Siri felt like an extension of my efforts relatively 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 treasured minutes earlier than a gathering.

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

I additionally cherished auto-unlock with the Apple Watch. Whereas it’s a minor characteristic, it impacted my day-to-day productiveness. With one much less password to enter, I might bounce 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 gadgets however seems 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 the whole lot extra accessible, it nudged me into upgrading my storage plan before anticipated. It’s a seamless ecosystem however not an affordable one.

What I dislike about macOS Sierra:

• Common clipboard glitches end in inconsistent syncing throughout gadgets and interrupt my workflow extra typically than I’d like.
• iCloud storage is expensive and closely reliant on the cloud, rapidly turning into a further expense.

What G2 customers dislike about macOS Sierra:

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

– macOS Sierra Evaluation, Jaykumar Ok. 

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

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

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

As an illustration, I used Nova Launcher to create a house display 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 each day.

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One other energy of Android is its seamless integration with Google providers. 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 increase. Android makes the method almost frictionless after I have to 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 Hold whereas referencing a doc or working two apps facet by facet throughout a gathering, this characteristic 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 gadgets, software program updates will be inconsistent, relying on the producer. On my Samsung machine, I typically needed to wait months for updates that Pixel customers acquired instantly. 

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

What I dislike about Android:

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

What G2 customers dislike about Android:

“Whereas I take pleasure in numerous points of Android, I additionally face some points that may be annoying. As a result of producers making use of their very own customized skins and software program, the platform is usually fragmented, inflicting inconsistent person experiences throughout gadgets.

Despite the fact that this delays updates and causes variations in efficiency, there are different issues that one may face, resembling battery drains once in a while. This will likely result in compatibility issues with sure functions that don’t justify the sufferings of whole battery failure. Nevertheless, however these challenges, Android stays a viable possibility for most individuals as a result of it has extra benefits than disadvantages.”

– Android Evaluation, Asit D.

Once I first began exploring Ubuntu, it was extra out of curiosity than necessity. I’d heard loads about its status as a free, open-source working system, and I wished 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 possibility, particularly if you happen to recognize flexibility and aren’t afraid to tinker a bit.

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

Duties like working a browser with a number of tabs, writing experiences 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 characteristic I appreciated was the GNOME desktop surroundings, which powers Ubuntu’s person interface. Coming from macOS and Home windows, I anticipated some awkward transitions, however it was surprisingly intuitive. 

I appreciated the simplicity of the navigation—the whole lot from accessing recordsdata to managing home windows with a number of digital desktops was simple. Plus, you may 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 may set up the whole lot from productiveness instruments like LibreOffice to extra area of interest software program like GIMP or Inkscape for gentle graphic design work. The repository has an enormous choice, and you’ll set up nearly something with just a few terminal instructions. This was notably helpful after I wanted to check new apps or discover instruments that weren’t simply accessible on different platforms.

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

Safety is one other robust level of Ubuntu, however it comes with a price. Whereas I felt assured realizing it’s much less liable to malware or viruses, the dearth of official buyer assist means you principally depend on boards and group guides to unravel issues. This may be irritating while you’re on a decent deadline or want fast fixes.

What I dislike about Ubuntu:

• For me, getting the whole lot to work—particularly peripherals like printers or exterior gadgets—wasn’t all the time simple and required some trial and error.
• Whereas there’s a wealth of guides and boards, I discovered the dearth 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 all the time have the identical degree of assist as different working programs, which will be limiting at occasions.”

– Ubuntu Evaluation, Dr. Will Hernando R.

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