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Windows vs Linux Debate

This cluster centers on discussions comparing Windows and Linux as desktop operating systems, focusing on reasons for preferring one over the other such as software compatibility, hardware support, development workflows, and gaming.

➡️ Stable 0.7x Open Source
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#2301
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Top Contributors

pjmlp (33) rbanffy (31) AnIdiotOnTheNet (27) giancarlostoro (16) Dalewyn (12)

Keywords

WSL2 WSL MS IT BSD GPL WMR WiFi CAD BTW linux windows use windows use linux windows linux desktop ubuntu software run windows 10

Sample Comments

cosmojg • Jun 28, 2021 • View on HN

What's keeping you on Windows? Linux is as capable as ever these days.

belter • Apr 18, 2023 • View on HN

The Desktop Experience on Linux is years ahead of Windows. Only users who have to use apps non available on Mac or Linux use Windows.

watermelon0 • Oct 10, 2021 • View on HN

Most people prefer Windows over Linux, even if they work on software that is deployed to Linux, or maybe they just have a single Linux application that they need.In my experience, there are a lot of tools that are easier to use on Linux, or are Linux-only, without a proper Windows alternative. WSL(g) allows seamless experience for running such apps, with some caveats (such as USB access.)

intricatedetail • Jan 2, 2021 • View on HN

I only use Windows because of a couple of tools there is no equivalent version for Linux. Unfortunately companies think there would be not enough customers to warrant development for that OS so I am kind of stuck with maintaining dedicated Windows PC. I have mixed feelings about Microsoft appropriation of Linux. Whatever they touch turns to excrement with a few exceptions.

IceWreck • Apr 21, 2022 • View on HN

Stop using Windows then. Linux is the way.

desdiv • Sep 10, 2015 • View on HN

Well put Linux on it then. No one's forcing you to use Windows.

Leftium • Aug 31, 2021 • View on HN

I have a laptop that dual-boots into Linux Mint. I haven't logged into the Linux side for ages.I like the Linux command line, but I get what I need via Git Bash for Windows. Also there's Windows Subsystem for Linux.Windows generally has better compatibility with hardware with less fuss. Especially on laptops. My friend tried to use Linux-only for a while, but he said trying to video conference just sucked. Sure, there might be some programs that work, but often the client dictate

underscore_ku • Nov 15, 2021 • View on HN

why do you people bother with windows? just use linux

mmcnl • Jan 2, 2021 • View on HN

The desktop experience Windows offers is often a lot better than the desktop experience of Linux. Then there's also the issue of Linux hardware support which often is not optimal. Also a lot of people need to use Windows for work and don't have a choice. And then there's the possibility people actually like using Windows. Having a full Linux terminal in your Windows desktop environment is the best of both worlds for a lot of people.

randomNumber7 • Sep 16, 2025 • View on HN

Why do you favor Windows over Linux then?