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 programs (OS) than most individuals spend selecting out a brand new telephone. 

I’ve labored in numerous settings, from fast-paced places of work 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 interested by which of them are price your time, my checklist of greatest working programs has an answer for each want.

7 greatest working programs I attempted: My suggestions 

After I first began exploring totally 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 rather 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 exploit.

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 e-mail, designing graphics, or operating in depth 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 perfect OS for you will depend on what you want and worth most. However in the event you’re searching for constantly delivering choices, those I’ve chosen are price contemplating.

How did I select these greatest working programs? My guidelines

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

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

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

• System useful resource administration: An working system’s means to allocate sources is important, particularly when operating a number of purposes or heavy software program, resembling video editors, design instruments, or improvement 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 programs have superior options like journaling (which retains observe of adjustments to keep away from information loss) or higher assist for giant 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 affords sturdy 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 challenge administration software, or testing environments. A purposeful OS lets me swap between home windows, resize, and manage them with out extreme friction. I evaluated options like digital desktops, split-screen choices, and process 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 seemed for working programs that supplied granular management over permissions and safety. Options resembling obligatory entry management (MAC), sandboxing, and file-level encryption ensured that my delicate information 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. 
• 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 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 mechanically.
• 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 mechanically 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 realized, one of the best working programs adapt to you, not the opposite method 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 checklist under incorporates real consumer evaluations 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}
• Enable for simultaneous use of purposes
• Join with the central processing unit for reminiscence and storage allocation

*This information was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some evaluations might have been edited for readability.  

Home windows 11 combines a modern 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 appear and feel. 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 target was on making on a regular basis duties extra fluid and pleasant.

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 shortly 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 structure and return to it later, maintaining me from always reorganizing my workspace every time I switched duties. 

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One other characteristic 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 completely totally different setting for every sort of process. 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 sooner, 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 happening.

Nonetheless, 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 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 having the ability to use Home windows 11 on units which might be nonetheless operating high quality with Home windows 10.

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

These small adjustments might 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 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 constantly stood out for its seamless integration and intuitive interface. After utilizing numerous variations over time, I’ve come to understand how Apple continues to refine the consumer expertise with out overcomplicating issues. 

iOS 18, the most recent 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 means of once more, and the updates really feel purposeful slightly 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’ll be able to work together with them instantly from the house or lock display screen.

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

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

Looking for an outdated e-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 counsel moments to mirror on, like a current photograph 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 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 deliver my telephone near another person’s, and the data transferred immediately. It’s small conveniences like this that make iOS really feel thoughtfully designed.

That mentioned, 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 count on builders will deal with this over time, however it’s nonetheless barely inconvenient. One other challenge 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 target mode enhancements have been spectacular—particularly with the brand new means to hyperlink particular focus modes to app utilization patterns—they nonetheless required in depth guide setup to get essentially the most out of them. This would possibly 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 in the event you’re totally invested in it, it might probably really feel limiting in the event you depend on non-Apple units. For instance, transferring information exterior the Apple setting can nonetheless be a trouble, 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 most recent 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 units or companies.

What G2 customers dislike about iOS:

“iOS affords 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 at all times been interested by Chrome OS, particularly as somebody who values light-weight, cloud-based options for productiveness. After spending important time with it, I can say that Chrome OS is a incredible working system for customers who reside and breathe inside the browser.

Whereas it’s not designed to interchange conventional working programs like Home windows or macOS for everybody, it excels in particular use instances, significantly for college kids, distant employees, 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 units—I might begin a process 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 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 numerous Android apps by means of the Google Play Retailer, extending Chrome OS’s performance past only a browser. As an 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 mechanically within the background, and barely slows down, even after extended use. It’s preferrred for attending to work with out coping with driver updates or system bloat.

That mentioned, 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 change into a hurdle in the event you work in environments with spotty web.

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

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 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. In case you are a college pupil who has to put in many high-performing instruments resembling Android Studio, VS code, and Unity, you can’t work with Chrome OS. The identical goes for working professionals.”

– Chrome OS Evaluation, Jahanvi R.

Crimson Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is a reputation that’s constantly 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 impression 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 advanced 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 Crimson 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 workforce members who used it to flag safety dangers and deal with them shortly. 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 realized 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.

Nonetheless, 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 in the event you’re not used to working in Linux environments. It’s undeniably tailor-made for a technical viewers, and the training curve will be steep in the event you’re unfamiliar with Linux-based programs. 

And whereas the enterprise-level assist is incredible, 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 may occasionally not have an effect on each consumer 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 economic assist, and the finicky nature of the older, much less mature variations. Centralized administration just isn’t actually fleshed out, regardless that issues like WebVirtMgr will be configured. Upkeep will be tough. Migration from one host to a different is not very easy both.”

– RHEL Evaluation, Evan L.

macOS Sierra was my first deep dive into Apple’s desktop working system, and it utterly 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 wise, 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 information shortly, 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 means of information. As an alternative, Sierra dealt with it seamlessly by transferring older, less-used information to iCloud whereas leaving generally accessed ones domestically. It wasn’t flawless—at occasions, I needed I had extra management over what went to the cloud—however for essentially the most half, it relieved the storage nervousness I’d been dwelling with.

I additionally beloved 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 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 affordable one.

What I dislike about macOS Sierra:

• Common clipboard glitches lead to inconsistent syncing throughout units and interrupt my workflow extra typically than I’d like.
• iCloud storage is expensive and closely reliant on the cloud, shortly changing into a further expense.

What G2 customers dislike about macOS Sierra:

“As a shopper, macOS Sierra affords a rare association which may be helpful with its predictable combine, solace, additional improvement 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 constructive factors, Sierra’s sources overshadow any minor disservices.”

– macOS Sierra Evaluation, Jaykumar Okay. 

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

Not like different working programs tied to particular {hardware}, Android’s open nature and flexibility enable it to work throughout numerous 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 aren’t any surprises right here, however one of the best characteristic I respect 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 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 each 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 shortly share a draft or test 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 operating two apps aspect by aspect throughout a gathering, this characteristic feels extremely sensible. I’ve relied on the pliability to do extra in much less time, particularly after I’m away from my desk.

That mentioned, Android isn’t with out its quirks. With such a various vary of units, 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 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 machine, I typically waited months for updates my associates utilizing Pixel telephones instantly acquired. 
• 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 could possibly be higher used for the apps I want.

What G2 customers dislike about Android:

“Whereas I take pleasure in numerous facets of Android, I additionally face some points that may be annoying. Resulting from producers making use of their very own customized skins and software program, the platform is commonly fragmented, inflicting inconsistent consumer experiences throughout units.

Although this delays updates and causes variations in efficiency, there are different issues that one would possibly face, resembling battery drains every now and then. This may occasionally result in compatibility issues with sure purposes that don’t justify the sufferings of whole battery failure. Nonetheless, 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.

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 wished to see if it might maintain its personal for advertising and marketing workflows and content material administration. 

After spending a couple of weeks with it, I can confidently say that Ubuntu is a standout possibility, particularly in the event you respect 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 unimaginable.

Duties like operating a browser with a number of tabs, writing stories 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 setting, which powers Ubuntu’s consumer interface. Coming from macOS and Home windows, I anticipated some awkward transitions, however it 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 structure 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 Heart. 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 gentle graphic design work. The repository has an enormous choice, and you may set up nearly something with a couple of terminal instructions. This was significantly helpful after I wanted to check new apps or discover instruments that weren’t simply accessible on different platforms.

Nonetheless, establishing Ubuntu and making certain all the things works as anticipated requires persistence. For instance, driver compatibility was a problem for me. I bumped into hassle getting my printer to work and frolicked 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, however it 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 largely depend on boards and neighborhood guides to resolve issues. This may be irritating once you’re on a decent 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 benefit 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 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.