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 choosing out a brand new cellphone. 

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 strive a number of the greatest working programs, 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 may 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 greatest 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. In case you’re trying to improve your OS or simply interested in which of them are value your time, my listing of greatest working programs has an answer for each want.

7 greatest working programs I attempted: My suggestions 

After 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 spotted an OS is way more than a system that lets me use my laptop. It’s the invisible engine that retains my units working easily, managing every thing 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 working 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 very best OS for you depends upon what you want and worth most. However in the event you’re searching for constantly 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 properly it suits my workflow. Those on my listing 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 most recent gimmicks. The true check lies in how properly it performs beneath 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 programs in numerous work environments:

• System useful resource administration: An working system’s potential to allocate assets is important, particularly when working a number of functions or heavy software program, equivalent to video editors, design instruments, or growth environments. I paid consideration to how properly the OS manages RAM and CPU utilization, significantly when working quite a few open tabs or functions. Some OSs are extra environment friendly with assets, whereas others eat extra, resulting in lag or slowdowns.
• File system and storage administration: Sure programs have superior options like journaling (which retains monitor of adjustments to keep away from knowledge loss) or higher assist for giant file transfers. I thought-about how the OS organizes and transfers information and the pace of its inner file system. I additionally checked if the OS provides sturdy 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 challenge administration software, or testing environments. A useful 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 process switching, very important for enhancing productiveness. I additionally thought-about 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 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. 
• 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 bundle 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 mechanically.
• Energy administration and battery optimization: A terrific OS optimizes battery life by dynamically adjusting efficiency relying on workload. I checked if the system included power-saving modes for idle durations and mechanically 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 properly 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 perfect 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 listing beneath 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}
• 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 evaluations might have been edited for readability.  

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

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 every thing 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 subsequent degree.

After arranging my apps excellent, I may save the structure and return to it later, maintaining me from consistently 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 well-liked 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 simple, and it felt like I had a wholly completely different atmosphere for every kind of process. This made it a lot simpler to maintain every thing 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 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.

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 with the ability to use Home windows 11 on units which can be nonetheless working tremendous with Home windows 10.

One other side 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 tougher to personalize my workspace. I additionally missed the flexibility to pull information immediately into taskbar apps.

These small adjustments might not look like a lot, however for somebody who likes to fine-tune their atmosphere, 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 properly they had been nonetheless performing with Home windows 10.
• The taskbar felt extra restrictive than in earlier variations. I missed the flexibility 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 annoyed some customers who had been hoping to improve their present machines.”

– Home windows 11 Evaluation, Surendra Kumar J.

As somebody who depends closely on my cellphone for each work and private duties, iOS has constantly 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 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 concentrate on usability and innovation shines by once more, and the updates really feel purposeful quite 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 immediately from the house or lock display.

I used them to examine off duties in my reminders, management sensible house units, and even reply to messages with out opening the apps. It’d look like 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 develop into. It now pulls real-time outcomes, from apps to paperwork to internet solutions, 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 immediately into outcomes—like beginning a timer or sending a message—saving me additional 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 replicate 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 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 info to a brand new degree. As an alternative of awkwardly typing out particulars or scanning QR codes, I may simply deliver 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 mentioned, iOS isn’t with out its quirks. For one, I seen that a number of the older apps I depend on didn’t combine properly with the brand new interactive widgets or highlight performance. I anticipate builders will tackle this over time, nevertheless it’s nonetheless barely inconvenient. One other subject 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 had been spectacular—particularly with the brand new potential 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 properly in the event you’re totally invested in it, it may really feel limiting in the event you depend on non-Apple units. For instance, transferring information outdoors the Apple atmosphere 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, nevertheless it’s not as handy when working with non-Apple units or providers.

What G2 customers dislike about iOS:

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

– iOS Evaluation, Prakhar G.

I’ve all the time been interested in 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 dwell and breathe inside the browser.

Whereas it’s not designed to exchange conventional working programs like Home windows or macOS for everybody, it excels in particular use circumstances, significantly for college students, distant employees, and people who 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 may begin a process on my desktop, choose it up on my Chromebook, and end it on my cellphone with out lacking a beat. It’s like my whole 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 may obtain and use numerous Android apps by 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 properly. 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 pace and ease. Chrome OS boots up in seconds, updates mechanically within the background, and infrequently slows down, even after extended use. It’s very best for attending to work with out coping with driver updates or system bloat.

That mentioned, Chrome OS isn’t good. One limitation I seen 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 develop 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 will probably really feel restrictive for somebody who often works with giant information or prefers organizing them domestically.

Lastly, whereas Chrome OS now helps Linux and Parallels Desktop for working 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 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 scholar 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 Evaluation, Jahanvi R.

Purple 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 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 seen was how reliable and steady RHEL is for managing business-critical programs. Throughout my analysis, I noticed its repute as a trusted spine in finance and healthcare—and it’s clear why. Even with a number of customers accessing assets 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 group 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 commonly 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 could be steep in the event you’re unfamiliar with Linux-based programs. 

And whereas the enterprise-level assist is unbelievable, the licensing price could 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 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 business assist, and the finicky nature of the older, much less mature variations. Centralized administration isn’t actually fleshed out, although issues like WebVirtMgr could be configured. Upkeep could be tough. 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 seen workflow integration.

Sierra’s options instantly stood out as somebody who spends numerous hours juggling advertising 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 information rapidly, add calendar occasions, and even ask for instructions whereas multitasking, Siri felt like an extension of my efforts quite 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 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 anxiousness I’d been residing with.

I additionally liked 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 may 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 appears 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 every thing 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 lead to inconsistent syncing throughout units and interrupt my workflow extra typically than I’d like.
• iCloud storage is dear and closely reliant on the cloud, rapidly turning into a further expense.

What G2 customers dislike about macOS Sierra:

“As a consumer, macOS Sierra provides a rare association that could be precious with its predictable combine, solace, additional growth of elements, 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 assets overshadow any minor disservices.”

– macOS Sierra Evaluation, Jaykumar Okay. 

As a marketer who spends loads 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 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 the perfect characteristic I respect about Android is its customizability. Android lets me tailor my gadget to suit my workflow, from widgets and launchers to system-level tweaks.

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

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One other power 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 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 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 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 could be inconsistent, relying on the producer. On my Samsung gadget, 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 gadget, I typically waited months for updates my associates utilizing Pixel telephones instantly obtained. 
• I’ve encountered pre-installed apps that I didn’t ask for and may’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 would like.

What G2 customers dislike about Android:

“Whereas I get pleasure from numerous points 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, equivalent to battery drains occasionally. This will result in compatibility issues with sure functions that don’t justify the sufferings of whole battery failure. Nonetheless, however these challenges, Android stays a viable choice 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 loads about its repute as a free, open-source working system, and I needed to see if it may maintain its personal for advertising workflows and content material administration. 

After spending just a few weeks with it, I can confidently say that Ubuntu is a standout choice, 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 unbelievable.

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

One characteristic I appreciated was the GNOME desktop atmosphere, which powers Ubuntu’s consumer interface. Coming from macOS and Home windows, I anticipated some awkward transitions, nevertheless it was surprisingly intuitive. 

I favored the simplicity of the navigation—every thing from accessing information to managing home windows with a number of digital desktops was simple. Plus, you may 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 Middle. Consider it as an app retailer the place you may set up every thing 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 significantly helpful after I wanted to check new apps or discover instruments that weren’t simply accessible on different platforms.

Nonetheless, establishing Ubuntu and guaranteeing every thing works as anticipated requires persistence. For instance, driver compatibility was a problem for me. I bumped into hassle getting my printer to work and hung out looking out 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, nevertheless it comes with a price. Whereas I felt assured understanding it’s much less vulnerable 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 good deadline or want fast fixes.

What I dislike about Ubuntu:

• For me, getting every thing to work—particularly peripherals like printers or exterior units—wasn’t all the time simple 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:

“Generally it’s a bit irritating when particular {hardware} drivers aren’t readily supported, making the benefit of integration troublesome, and you need 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 could be limiting at occasions.”

– Ubuntu Evaluation, Dr. Will Hernando R.

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