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

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

I’ve labored in numerous settings, from fast-paced workplaces and distant setups to startups the place I wore a number of hats, together with troubleshooting my tech. That’s given me loads of alternatives to attempt among the finest working methods, 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 high 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 seeking to improve your OS or simply inquisitive about which of them are value your time, my record of finest working methods has an answer for each want.

7 finest working methods I attempted: My suggestions 

Once I first began exploring completely different working methods, 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 far more than a system that lets me use my laptop. It’s the invisible engine that retains my units working easily, managing every part from the information I save to the apps I take advantage of.

An working system bridges the hole between customers and {hardware}, translating clicks, faucets, and instructions into one thing a machine understands. Whether or not I’m sending an e-mail, designing graphics, or working intensive software program, the OS works behind the scenes to make all of it occur. A great OS feels intuitive, like an assistant that is aware of what you want. 

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

How did I select these finest working methods? My guidelines

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

When selecting an working system, I look past surface-level options like aesthetics or the most recent gimmicks. The true take a look at lies in how properly 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 discovered from years of testing and utilizing working methods in numerous work environments:

• System useful resource administration: An working system’s capability to allocate sources is vital, particularly when working a number of purposes 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, significantly when working 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 methods have superior options like journaling (which retains monitor of modifications to keep away from knowledge loss) or higher assist for big file transfers. I thought-about how the OS organizes and transfers information and the pace of its inside file system. I additionally checked if the OS provides sturdy assist for exterior storage and might effectively handle disk area with out fixed reminders about storage errors or area 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 instrument, or testing environments. A purposeful OS lets me change between home windows, resize, and set up them with out extreme friction. I evaluated options like digital desktops, split-screen choices, and process switching, 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 methods that provided granular management over permissions and safety. Options corresponding 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 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 routinely.
• Energy administration and battery optimization: An amazing OS optimizes battery life by dynamically adjusting efficiency relying on workload. I checked if the system included power-saving modes for idle durations and routinely adjusted CPU utilization when working on the battery. It’s important that the OS conserves the battery with out sacrificing efficiency, particularly throughout extra demanding duties.
• Community and connectivity: Strong 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 companies 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 methods 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 record under comprises real person 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 purposes
• 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 modern 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 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 organize every part on the display in a manner that is sensible for no matter I’m engaged on. Adjusting home windows into grid layouts was an enormous time-saver, and snap teams took it to the following degree.

After arranging my apps good, I may save the format and return to it later, preserving me from consistently reorganizing my workspace at any time when 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 completely different desktops for particular duties. I arrange one for work, one for private looking, and one other for analysis or leisure. 

Switching between them was fast and simple, and it felt like I had a wholly completely different surroundings for every kind of process. This made it a lot simpler to maintain every part 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 purposes opened with minimal delay. Even when working 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 occurring.

Nevertheless, one of many main drawbacks I encountered was the system necessities. To run Home windows 11, you want appropriate {hardware}, together with TPM 2.0 and a supported processor. This meant that a few of my older units couldn’t make the leap, 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 are nonetheless working high-quality with Home windows 10.

One other side that I didn’t love was taskbar customization. The brand new taskbar appears to be like 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 power to pull information instantly into taskbar apps.

These small modifications might not appear to be a lot, however for somebody who likes to fine-tune their surroundings, they made the taskbar really feel a bit limiting.

What I dislike about Home windows 11:

• The strict {hardware} necessities meant I couldn’t improve a few of my older 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 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 annoyed some customers who had been hoping to improve their present machines.”

– Home windows 11 Overview, 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 numerous variations through the years, I’ve come to understand how Apple continues to refine the person expertise with out overcomplicating issues. 

iOS 18, the 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 way of 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 data anymore—you possibly can work together with them instantly from the house or lock display.

I used them to examine off duties in my reminders, management good dwelling units, and even reply to messages with out opening the apps. It’d appear to be a minor improve, however for me, it lower down on the fixed app-hopping that eats into productiveness.

One other large 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 net options, and learns out of your utilization patterns.

Trying to find an previous 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 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 current picture you took, a spot you visited, or perhaps a music 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 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 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 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 major quantity of area, which was a hurdle on my older iPhone with a smaller capability.

Lastly, whereas the main target mode enhancements had been spectacular—particularly with the brand new capability to hyperlink particular focus modes to app utilization patterns—they nonetheless required intensive handbook setup to get essentially the most out of them. This may 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 in the event you’re totally invested in it, it might really feel limiting in the event you depend on non-Apple units. For instance, transferring information exterior the Apple surroundings can nonetheless be a trouble, and counting on proprietary instruments like iCloud generally 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 glorious internally, nevertheless it’s not as handy when working with non-Apple units or companies.

What G2 customers dislike about iOS:

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

– iOS Overview, 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 important time with it, I can say that Chrome OS is a unbelievable working system for customers who dwell and breathe throughout the browser.

Whereas it’s not designed to interchange conventional working methods like Home windows or macOS for everybody, it excels in particular use circumstances, significantly for college students, distant staff, 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 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 may obtain and use numerous Android apps by way of 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 routinely 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 observed is its dependency on an web connection. Whereas apps like Google Docs have offline capabilities, the OS is undeniably at its finest 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 methods. It might probably 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 working Home windows apps, these options are extra suited to superior customers. Organising Linux wasn’t as user-friendly as I’d hoped, and the efficiency of Home windows apps through Parallels was hit and miss.

What I dislike about Chrome OS:

• Chrome OS is internet-dependent, which implies some key options lose effectiveness with out a secure connection, limiting their utility in offline settings.
• The native file administration system feels primary and lacks the robustness of conventional working methods like Home windows or macOS.

What G2 customers dislike about Chrome OS:

“It isn’t for skilled utilization. If you’re a college scholar 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 Overview, Jahanvi R.

Purple Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is a reputation that’s persistently popped up in conversations about enterprise-grade working methods, 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 influence 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 observed was how reliable and secure RHEL is for managing business-critical methods. Throughout my analysis, I noticed its status as a trusted spine in finance and healthcare—and it’s clear why. Even with a number of customers accessing sources concurrently, RHEL manages workloads seamlessly with out hiccups.

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I additionally explored Purple Hat Insights, a built-in analytics 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 tackle 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 discovered the way it automates updates or system configurations in bigger setups. The suggestions from IT colleagues who use it frequently confirmed how a lot time this protects.

Nevertheless, RHEL isn’t for everybody. The educational curve can really feel steep for somebody coming from user-friendly working methods 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 educational curve could be steep in the event you’re unfamiliar with Linux-based methods. 

And whereas the enterprise-level assist is unbelievable, the licensing value 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 person however generally is 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 shouldn’t be actually fleshed out, regardless that issues like WebVirtMgr could be configured. Upkeep could be tough. Migration from one host to a different is not very simple both.”

– RHEL Overview, 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 and marketing campaigns, content material administration, and collaboration instruments. It’s not simply an OS—it felt like a sensible, intuitive assistant constructed to streamline work and on a regular basis duties.

One characteristic that grew to become indispensable to me was Siri’s integration into macOS. This wasn’t nearly voice instructions and the way Siri match naturally into my workflow. Whether or not I wanted to seek for information shortly, 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. Once I first encountered the dreaded “disk virtually full” notification, I dreaded spending hours sorting by way 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 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 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 units however seems like a letdown, generally. 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 part extra accessible, it nudged me into upgrading my storage plan ahead of 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 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 provides a unprecedented association which may be beneficial with its predictable combine, solace, additional improvement 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 optimistic factors, Sierra’s sources overshadow any minor disservices.”

– macOS Sierra Overview, Jaykumar Ok. 

As a marketer who spends numerous 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 methods tied to particular {hardware}, Android’s open nature and adaptableness 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 are not any surprises right here, however the very best characteristic I recognize about Android is its customizability. Android lets me tailor my system 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 and marketing instruments. The extent of management feels empowering, particularly when juggling a number of instruments every 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 almost frictionless after I have to shortly 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 Preserve 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 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 system, I generally 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 system, I usually waited months for updates my mates utilizing Pixel telephones instantly obtained. 
• I’ve encountered pre-installed apps that I didn’t ask for and might’t uninstall on particular units, which is annoying. They muddle the interface and take up area that may very well be higher used for the apps I would like.

What G2 customers dislike about Android:

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

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

– Android Overview, Asit D.

Once 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 needed to see if it may maintain its personal for advertising and marketing workflows and content material administration. 

After spending just a few weeks with it, I can confidently say that Ubuntu is a standout possibility, particularly in the event 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 unbelievable.

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

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

I favored the simplicity of the navigation—every part from accessing information to managing home windows with a number of digital desktops was simple. Plus, you possibly can 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 possibly can set up every part 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 virtually 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.

Nevertheless, establishing Ubuntu and making certain every part works as anticipated requires endurance. For instance, driver compatibility was a problem for me. I bumped into bother getting my printer to work and frolicked looking 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, nevertheless it comes with a value. Whereas I felt assured figuring out it’s much less vulnerable to malware or viruses, the shortage of official buyer assist means you principally depend on boards and group 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 every part to work—particularly peripherals like printers or exterior units—wasn’t at all times 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 tough, 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 methods, which could be limiting at occasions.”

– Ubuntu Overview, 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 info.