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

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

I’ve labored in varied settings, from fast-paced 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 a number of the finest working techniques, each out of sheer curiosity and the need of my office. 

Whether or not it was reviving an historic 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 finest 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 checklist of finest working techniques has an answer for each want.

7 finest working techniques I attempted: My suggestions 

Once I first began exploring completely different working techniques, 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 rather more than a system that lets me use my laptop. It’s the invisible engine that retains my gadgets working easily, managing every little 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 electronic mail, designing graphics, or working intensive software program, the OS works behind the scenes to make all of it occur. A superb 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 will depend on what you want and worth most. However should you’re on the lookout for persistently delivering choices, those I’ve chosen are value contemplating.

How did I select these finest working techniques? My guidelines

Testing completely different working techniques has taught me one essential lesson: the “finest” working system isn’t nearly flashy options or reputation—it’s about how properly it matches my workflow. Those on my checklist 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 take a look at lies in how properly it performs beneath real-world circumstances 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 techniques in varied work environments:

• System useful resource administration: An working system’s means to allocate sources is vital, particularly when working a number of functions or heavy software program, corresponding to video editors, design instruments, or improvement environments. I paid consideration to how properly 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 techniques have superior options like journaling (which retains observe of adjustments to keep away from information loss) or higher help for big file transfers. I thought of how the OS organizes and transfers information and the pace of its inside file system. I additionally checked if the OS presents strong help for exterior storage and might effectively handle disk house with out fixed reminders about storage errors or house administration.
• Multitasking and window administration: Managing a number of apps concurrently is a given, whether or not it’s a browser with quite a few tabs, a messaging app, a mission administration instrument, or testing environments. A practical 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 job 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 appeared for working techniques that supplied granular management over permissions and safety. Options corresponding to 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, 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 simple 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 robotically.
• 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 intervals and robotically 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: Strong community help 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 vital duties.

If there’s one factor I’ve discovered, the very best working techniques adapt to you, not the opposite manner 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 beneath accommodates real consumer critiques from G2’s working system software program class. To be included on this class, an answer should:

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

*This information was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some critiques might 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 may 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 directly, and this characteristic permits me to shortly prepare every little thing on the display in a manner 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 stage.

After arranging my apps good, I may save the format and return to it later, protecting 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 at all times 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 simple, and it felt like I had a completely completely different atmosphere for every kind of job. This made it a lot simpler to maintain every little 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 quite a bit occurring.

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

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

These small adjustments might not appear to be 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 gadgets, which was irritating, particularly given how properly they have 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 suitable with the brand new ideas, which has annoyed some customers who have been hoping to improve their present machines.”

– Home windows 11 Assessment, Surendra Kumar J.

As somebody who depends closely on my cellphone for each work and private duties, iOS has persistently stood out for its seamless integration and intuitive interface. After utilizing varied variations 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 relatively than flashy.

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

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One of many standout options I appreciated was the interactive widgets. These aren’t simply static blocks of knowledge anymore—you may work together with them straight from the house or lock display.

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

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

Looking for an outdated electronic mail attachment or a half-remembered app I downloaded months in the past was faster than ever. It even built-in actions straight 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 recommend moments to mirror on, like a latest photograph you took, a spot you visited, or perhaps a track 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 stage. As an alternative of awkwardly typing out particulars or scanning QR codes, I may simply deliver my cellphone near another person’s, and the data 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 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 count on builders will handle this over time, however it’s nonetheless barely inconvenient. One other situation for me was the storage necessities. The system replace took up a big quantity of house, which was a hurdle on my older iPhone with a smaller capability.

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

One other draw back is the walled backyard ecosystem. Whereas Apple’s ecosystem works properly should you’re absolutely invested in it, it might probably really feel limiting should you depend on non-Apple gadgets. For instance, transferring information exterior 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 absolutely help the most recent options, like widgets or Highlight, which felt limiting for energy customers like me.
• I really feel Apple’s ecosystem works glorious 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 techniques like Android, which can be a draw back for customers preferring extra management over their machine’s look and settings.”

– iOS Assessment, Prakhar G.

I’ve at all times 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 implausible working system for customers who reside and breathe throughout the browser.

Whereas it’s not designed to switch conventional working techniques like Home windows or macOS for everybody, it excels in particular use instances, notably for college kids, 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 may begin a job on my desktop, decide it up on my Chromebook, and end it on my cellphone with out lacking a beat. It’s like my total digital workspace was at all times only a login away.

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One other space that impressed me was the Android app help. I may obtain and use varied Android apps by 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 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 robotically within the background, and barely slows down, even after extended use. It’s perfect for attending to work with out coping with driver updates or system bloat.

That stated, 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 finest when related to Wi-Fi. This might turn out to be a hurdle should you work in environments with spotty web.

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

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 fundamental and lacks the robustness of conventional working techniques like Home windows or macOS.

What G2 customers dislike about Chrome OS:

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

– Chrome OS Assessment, Jahanvi R.

Crimson Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is a reputation that’s persistently popped up in conversations about enterprise-grade working techniques, particularly once 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 carefully with product and IT groups.

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

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

What intrigued me most was RHEL’s help 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 often 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 techniques like Home windows or macOS. The command line interface strategy may be intimidating should you’re not used to working in Linux environments. It’s undeniably tailor-made for a technical viewers, and the educational curve could be steep should you’re unfamiliar with Linux-based techniques. 

And whereas the enterprise-level help is implausible, 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 likely 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 dearth of business help, and the finicky nature of the older, much less mature variations. Centralized administration just isn’t actually fleshed out, despite the fact that issues like WebVirtMgr could be configured. Upkeep could be tough. Migration from one host to a different is not very easy both.”

– RHEL Assessment, Evan L.

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

Sierra’s options instantly stood out as somebody who spends numerous hours juggling advertising 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 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 valuable 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 information. As an alternative, Sierra dealt with it seamlessly by transferring older, less-used information to iCloud whereas leaving generally accessed ones regionally. It wasn’t flawless—at occasions, I needed I had extra management over what went to the cloud—however for essentially the most half, it relieved the storage anxiousness I’d been residing 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 may leap 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 looks like a letdown, typically. Switching between my iPhone and MacBook labored splendidly about 70% of the time, however the syncing delays disrupted my circulate when it did not. 

Equally, whereas iCloud integration made every little thing extra accessible, it nudged me into upgrading my storage plan ahead of 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 gadgets and interrupt my workflow extra usually than I’d like.
• iCloud storage is dear and closely reliant on the cloud, shortly changing into an extra expense.

What G2 customers dislike about macOS Sierra:

“As a consumer, macOS Sierra presents a unprecedented association which may be invaluable with its predictable combine, solace, additional improvement of elements, 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 Assessment, Jaykumar Ok. 

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

In contrast to different working techniques tied to particular {hardware}, Android’s open nature and flexibility permit it to work throughout varied 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 instruments. The extent of management feels empowering, particularly when juggling a number of instruments every 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 enhance. Android makes the method almost frictionless once I have to 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 Maintain whereas referencing a doc or working 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 once 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 could be inconsistent, relying on the producer. On my Samsung machine, 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 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 usually waited months for updates my associates utilizing Pixel telephones instantly obtained. 
• I’ve encountered pre-installed apps that I didn’t ask for and might’t uninstall on particular gadgets, which is annoying. They litter the interface and take up house that might be higher used for the apps I would like.

What G2 customers dislike about Android:

“Whereas I get pleasure from varied elements 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 usually fragmented, inflicting inconsistent consumer experiences throughout gadgets.

Regardless that this delays updates and causes variations in efficiency, there are different issues that one would possibly face, corresponding to battery drains infrequently. This will likely 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 possibility for most individuals as a result of it has extra benefits than disadvantages.”

– Android Assessment, Asit D.

Once I first began exploring Ubuntu, it was extra out of curiosity than necessity. I’d heard quite a bit about its fame as a free, open-source working system, and I wished to see if it may maintain its personal for advertising workflows and content material administration. 

After spending a number of weeks with it, I can confidently say that Ubuntu is a standout possibility, particularly should you recognize flexibility and aren’t afraid to tinker a bit.

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

I preferred the simplicity of the navigation—every little thing from accessing information to managing home windows with a number of digital desktops was easy. 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 every little 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 may set up nearly something with a number of terminal instructions. This was notably helpful once I wanted to check new apps or discover instruments that weren’t simply accessible on different platforms.

Nonetheless, establishing Ubuntu and making certain every little thing works as anticipated requires persistence. For instance, driver compatibility was a difficulty for me. I bumped into bother getting my printer to work and hung out looking out group 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 price. Whereas I felt assured realizing it’s much less liable to malware or viruses, the dearth of official buyer help means you principally depend on boards and group guides to unravel issues. This may be irritating if you’re on a good deadline or want fast fixes.

What I dislike about Ubuntu:

• For me, getting every little thing to work—particularly peripherals like printers or exterior gadgets—wasn’t at all times easy and required some trial and error.
• Whereas there’s a wealth of guides and boards, I discovered the dearth of official help 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 tough, and it’s a must to dig round for options. Additionally, some skilled software program doesn’t at all times have the identical stage of help as different working techniques, which could be limiting at occasions.”

– Ubuntu Assessment, 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.