Linux Is Free. Why Does Nobody Use It?

Thaal Sinestro on 01/05/2024 - 08:59
Last edited 02/05/2024 - 10:00

People love free stuff, with the sole exception of Linux. Yesterday there was a post where you could claim a few images linked to your Steam account for free. "[Steam] Free - 2 Animated Stickers, Avatar Frame (Steam Farming Fest)". 114 upvotes (including one from me; I average 3 upvotes a day), and 2028 click throughs. Linux just isn't a few mediocre images; it is an entire, fully functional Operating System. But ordinary people (ie non-programmers, people without jobs in IT, people who aren't running or administrating servers) don't want anything to do with it. Why hasn't Linux taken off?

I think about my personal history. I guess you could say I am locked into the Microsoft Windows ecosystem. Most of the programs I run are Mfc compiles, but there are also some .Net, some Java and a few annoying Python programs that I generally have to run from the Console, like gallery-dl (+ Chainner, which has a proper GUI). I started with DOS, then Windows 95, 98 2000, XP, 7 and now 10. If I wanted to switch to another OS I would need an OS with either native versions of all the programs that I use, or seemless Windows emulation (no having to start an emulator and tweak it for every program I wanted to run, like say Dosbox). It's different for Zoomers or younger Millenials, since they haven't become ossified like me over 3 decades. They don't really have an excuse for not using Linux.

Lastly, for people familiar with Linux, what is the best version of Linux for Windows users to try (for one who hates the Terminal/Command line/Console or whatever the proper name is)?

Real world figures (the people commenting here don't seem to be a representative sample): "For desktop computers and laptops, Microsoft Windows is the most used at 72.99%, followed by Apple's macOS at 16.13%, and Google's ChromeOS at 1.76%, and desktop Linux at 3.77%. Since ChromeOS is a Linux based OS, it can be added to the total desktop Linux share bringing it to 5.53%." I'm not bashing any OS, just saying what the reality is. I'm not a Microsoft shareholder, so I have no vested interest in hyping Windows. People jokingly talk about downloading Linux ISOs, but of course what they are doing is downloaded pir8ted films and/or pornography. Raid arrays on NASes with 4 x 16TB hard disks aren't used for storing and serving distros. Lots of Windows users use free software like JDownloader2, XnView, Thunderbird for email, Qbittorent, VLC, IrfanView, 7Zip, Audacity, CCleaner, and of course Chromium based browsers (at the moment the only non-Microsoft payware exe running on my system is Total Commander, a fantastic file manager than is infintely superior to Windows explorer). Windows users like freeware; they just don't like Linux.

Poll Options expired

  • 627
    My primary OS is Windows
  • 126
    My primary OS is Linux
  • 156
    My primary OS is MacOS
  • 6
    I use another OS
  • 4
    I don't use a desktop OS; all I need is a cell phone
  • 4
    What is an OS?
Computing Linux Operating System

Comments

  • JIMB0 on 01/05/2024 - 09:01
    +94

    Riding a push bike is practically free compared to the alternatives, yet there's not many takers.

    • AustriaBargain on 01/05/2024 - 09:38
      +19

      Inching to work while doing the worm on the ground is also a way to get to work. Better to get the bus or drive a car though.

    • ItsMeAgro on 02/05/2024 - 10:44
      +51

      The old saying still stands "Linux is only free if your time is worthless".

    • p3rsonally on 03/05/2024 - 17:16
      -1

      It's worse than that. It's like buying a car but installing pedals, because it doesn't use fuel that way.

      PCs come with Windows. What is the actual practical economic case for deleting the existing Windows install to switch to Linux?

      Don't tell me your old PC will run Linux better than Windows. You can reinstall Windows and it'll run like new. Or, you can spend $100 here and get a fully licensed, excellent Windows experience. Windows is not open, but it bundled in such a way that it's mostly free. It rarely costs the end user anything, and there are plenty of methods of using it without paying for it.

      All that you're doing by adopting Linux is creating a future headache when you need to do anything with any form of professional software - even the risks of messing up the a video job interview are higher on Linux.

    • boomramada on 04/05/2024 - 04:49
      +1

      Linux is free but support is not, as in business point of view, maintain Windows by third-party support services is way cheaper/easier than Linux.

      As a result, we only use it if we really have to. Getting professional UNIX admin is way harder and expensive these days.

      As a consumer point, window is just easy to adapt and its consumer focus product.

    • kaleidoscope on 04/05/2024 - 15:37

      its like saying "im a lonely guy and my private parts are free, yet no one is using them… "

  • djsweet on 01/05/2024 - 09:04
    -6

    Lots of people use Linux, what are you on about?
    Modern dotnet apps can be compiled for Linux and Windows runs really well on the KVM hypervisor which is built in to the Linux kernel. It is really easy to have a base Linux OS with a Windows guest.

    • jv on 01/05/2024 - 09:13
      +26

      Lots of people use Linux, what are you on about?

      1.51%

      • djsweet on 01/05/2024 - 09:14
        -5

        That is a lot I would think.

          • djsweet on 01/05/2024 - 09:17
            +9

            @jv: Higher than your IQ

            • jv on 01/05/2024 - 09:18
              +44

              @djsweet: So you failed VCE then?

              • djsweet on 01/05/2024 - 09:26
                +1

                @jv: Not sure if that’s an indictment on you or me

                • JustJay on 01/05/2024 - 22:29
                  +30

                  @djsweet: Girls, Girls, you're both pretty. Ok?

              • michaelTito on 02/05/2024 - 22:29
                +5

                @jv: Damn bro that was cold

          • pegaxs on 01/05/2024 - 09:17

            @jv: 1.51…

          • cobknob on 02/05/2024 - 09:44

            @jv: Couldn't see past double DD

    • Thaal Sinestro on 01/05/2024 - 09:57
      +5

      Lots? "For desktop computers and laptops, Microsoft Windows is the most used at 72.99%, followed by Apple's macOS at 16.13%, and Google's ChromeOS at 1.76%, and desktop Linux at 3.77%. Since ChromeOS is a Linux based OS, it can be added to the total desktop Linux share bringing it to 5.53%."

      If Linux was popular companies like Adobe and Avid and Autodesk would produce Linux native software. Gimp is great for the price (I love freeware), but it is inferior to Adobe Photoshop. Nobody in multimedia uses Linux, they use Windows or Mac. Office workers and bureaucrats use Microsoft Office on Windows machines. Gamers use Windows. Pre-build PCs (bar Macs) are pre-loaded with Windows.

      • Hybroid on 01/05/2024 - 10:21
        +9

        You've answered your own question here. It's like Windows Phone - not enough people used it, so not many developers ported their software for it, so not enough people used it.

        Linux does have uses, lots of them, but it's not ideal for the average joe. Both from the life support needed to keep it working, compatibility issues with hardware (albeit much better nowadays) and critically, limited application & game support.

        No one wants to figure out how to get basic stuff working when it's a double-click .exe on Windows.

        • iridiumstem on 01/05/2024 - 22:18
          +4

          I feel like Windows phone failed more than just because of the apps… The hardware always felt like it was struggling. Unless something was optimised really well, it had issues. I remember trying to get the tiles to update by minutes so that I have a clock on the "home screen". It drained battery like crazy. Eh just a nerd nerding out as I do remember them fairly fondly.

          I miss them to be honest, they were nifty fashionable little things when Android phones did not have that focus on design. Windows phone always felt like a missed opportunity, MS could have used their desktop OS like what Apple does with MacOS, having that feeling of they work together.

          • JownehFixIT on 02/05/2024 - 08:49
            +1

            @iridiumstem: Yeah, I worked at a school with Windows as the primary OS for all PCs and so we basically had to jump on board with Windows Phone when it came out. It was miles ahead of Windows Mobile v6.5 but that's not a high bar to beat. But it wasn't long before the platform was a thing of the past, and honestly putting Android on our older HTC HD2 phones (that shipped with Windows Mobile) was way more reliable than just using the newer Windows Phone 7 based handsets. They were Nokia Lumias if I recall correctly. What a time to be alive! 😀

            • Kangal on 05/05/2024 - 00:29
              +1

              @JownehFixIT: Nah.
              The HTC HD2 was the last "Windows Mobile" device and it was pretty meh with its v6.5 OS. Meanwhile the likes of Windows Phone 7 was a big carpshow from the beginning. Think of Steve Ballmer sticking his tongue out and dancing.

              If you're thinking of Windows Phone 8/8.1 yeah that was much better, because it was built on the same WindowsRT kernel base. So they were mediocre at best. Whereas the likes of Windows10 Mobile was actually running the full-desktop OS with the same kernel and base. It's just a shame it came out in 2016 instead of 2010.

              One of the reasons Windows Phone 7 was so bad was because it was built upon WindowsCE. You know like those GPS Navigation boxes. Or similar to the Microsoft Kin. Sure that tactic made sense against competitors like Android 2.0 or iOS 3.0 but by the time the phones hit the shelves it was almost 2011. And not only were they inferior to the likes of Android 2.4 and iOS 4.1 but those competitors were only just heating up. Android 4.0 and 4.1 were huge leaps forward, whilst iOS made incremental upgrades until iOS v7 for its big leap forward.

              That's why I mention Microsoft lacks vision and are incompetent. They should have avoided the whole WindowsRT/8/8.1 desktop scene, and launched their phones as affordable (Microsoft subsidised) flagship mobiles with competitive ecosystem. By the time Windows10 Mobile happened it was too late.

              • JownehFixIT on 05/05/2024 - 07:52
                +1

                @Kangal: You clearly remember the landscape much more clearly than I! You'll get no argument from me that Windows Phone flopped. And Windows 8… I'd also rather it never happened. We were compelled by management to get it rolled out to every PC in one holiday break, at the start of said break, with no prior installations or usage/testing of the platform. It did not go swimmingly.

      • RockyRaccoon on 01/05/2024 - 13:35
        +1

        You forget that you posted this saying NOBODY! guess 1.51% would be "lots" more than nobody….

      • Namalsk on 01/05/2024 - 22:20

        Autodesk produce Maya for Linux btw.

      • SlickMick on 02/05/2024 - 08:44
        +1

        A better stat would be most popular operating system for servers, and a better question would be why does Linux even have a GUI when it's purpose doesn't require one.

      • CoreArchitect on 02/05/2024 - 09:55
        -1

        MacOS was based on BSD which is a Linux distro.

      • Zondor on 05/05/2024 - 13:07
        +1

        I've found for a non graphic designer/professional photopea.com has replaced all my photoshop needs.

    • Mrgreenz on 01/05/2024 - 21:01
      +4

      Lots of people who know what a kernel is use linux

  • afoveht on 01/05/2024 - 09:10
    +3

    , with the sole exception of Linux.

    There's so much FOSS that people don't use and rather pay the companies they despise.

    • Wiede on 04/05/2024 - 22:49
      +1

      Because for me OS and Software are tools to do other things. I rather not fight my tools just to do simple stuff.

      Also Linux is a pain to troubleshoot if you have no experience. I migrated my Plex server back to Windows after giving up trying to fix some minor issues.

  • mskeggs on 01/05/2024 - 09:17
    +29

    Android is based on Linux. MacOS on BSD. And windows has various subsystems and skins for Linux.
    It runs most of AWS and Azure, and nearly every other webserver.
    It is very ubiquitous.

    If your question is, why do many consumers choose the option with a large marketing budget, over a free option, that is a bit like "why do people pay for bottled water when the tap water is free".

    • RedHab on 02/05/2024 - 08:55
      +6

      Most people don't think they pay for Windows - it's included in the price of the PC thanks to Microsoft.

      A while back you could get $50 to $100 off the price of a laptop if you didn't accept the Windows terms [1] but it's stopped now.

      [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criticism_of_Microsoft#Licensi…

      • mskeggs on 02/05/2024 - 08:58
        +1

        Must have been a long time ago.
        I know the bespoke PC builders charge for a licence, but Dell, hp, Lenovo etc. pay pocket money per machine for the included volume licences.
        I remember Lenovo had an option to get Redhat(? Maybe suse) installed instead of windows as a free upgrade, no discount.

        • happydude on 02/05/2024 - 09:42
          +4

          This is an interesting video on the Windows refund option in the EULA.

          No one at Microsoft or the Manufacturers seemed to have had read it, and no one knew who's job it was to provide the refund.

          There were worldwide protests (not kidding).

          https://youtu.be/1j9j-Ywjmbk?si=gyGzWh-7N_fzIMTf

  • JimmyF on 01/05/2024 - 09:19
    +7

    Linux is Free. Why does nobody use it?

    Have you tried it?

    I think about my personal history. I guess you could say I am locked into the Microsoft Windows ecosystem

    Oh like just about everyone else!

    If I wanted to switch to another OS I would need an OS with either native versions of all the programs that I use, or seemless Windows emulation

    Now you're getting it.

    It's different for Zoomers or younger Millenials, since they haven't become ossified like me over 3 decades. They don't really have an excuse for not using Linux.

    Yes no, I use Chromeos mostly as things are done on the web, but I have a windows pc for all the other stuff.

    Most businesses are windows based, so people just get used to that, then as everyone is used to windows, you keep using windows as you don't want to retrain every newstarter to your OS.

    • Kangal on 05/05/2024 - 00:48

      That's pretty based.
      Let me ask you, if you had to own a Five Personal Gadgets, and to choose a single ecosystem (no doubles) for each how would you (and fellow readers) decide your preferences ?

      Form factors:
      Phone, Tablet, Laptop, Desktop, TV Box

      Ecosystems:
      Apple, Microsoft, Google, Open-Source, Proprietary.

      For Example:
      Phone - Apple/iOS
      Tablet - Open-Source/SteamOS
      Laptop - Google/ChromeOS
      Desktop - Microsoft/WindowsOS
      TV Box - Proprietary/Xbox series S

      • JimmyF on 05/05/2024 - 10:13

        That's pretty based.

        I believe the word you wanted was biased….. But good try.

        Let me ask you, if you had to own a Five Personal Gadgets, and to choose a single ecosystem (no doubles) for each how would you (and fellow readers) decide your preferences ?

        Huh? We're talking desktop OS here, not phones, not tablets, not tv.

        Desktop - Microsoft/WindowsOS

        So what I said. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

        Thanks for coming.

        • Kangal on 05/05/2024 - 14:37

          Based, as in "rational". That the reason why WindowsOS is so ubiquitous is because of it "comes for free", it is "found everywhere", that it is "used by everyone", and the fact that Linux isn't used much is due to the high barrier for entry as you've said.

          In terms of biased, well that is everyone, even computers, it's a given. The thing that matters is to be biased for the right reasons. But that's a philosophical concept not crucial to this discourse.

          Actually you are mistaken. We were talking about Open-Source software. Mostly Linux. This thread was never locked to the form-factor of Desktop PC. Even the OP mentioned Laptops, but did not say anything about omitting other form-factors. Which is why I brought it up.

          And it is an interesting concept. If you want to be as ideal as possible, you should try to diversify your electronics and NOT get locked into any single one ecosystem. That's one way to get burned not just in the pocket, but also with time, frustration, and missing out on the good stuff other ecosystems harbour. Being a tech dweeb I have noticed that all ecosystems have their strengths in certain form-factors and weaknesses in others. So it is in "the average consumers" interest to figure out which ecosystem pairs best with a particular form-factor, then make an informed decision for it. I hope this helps you understand, and gives you the courage to answer my initial question.

          • Kangal on 05/05/2024 - 14:53

            @Kangal: Personally, I think the most ideal setup for the average consumers is this:

            Phone - Google/AndroidOS
            Tablet - Apple/iOS
            Laptop - Microsoft/WindowsOS
            Desktop - Open-Source/Linux
            TV Box - Proprietary/Sony

            And to be specific for Kangal:
            Phone: Pixel 8 Pro (Razer JungleCat)
            Tablet: iPad Mini 7 (GameSir G8)
            Laptop: Frameworks 16"AMD (Logitech Mouse)
            Desktop: Custom Build (ZorinOS dualboot)
            TV Box: Sony PS5 Pro

            That covers gaming from the earliest Atari to the latest Wii on the thin devices. Also the exclusive titles from Android and iOS, and it's Apps. Whilst backwards compatibility for Windows Xp, Xbox, 360, PS3, WiiU, upto NSwitch on the laptops and desktop devices. Plus the latest Windows 7-10 for AAA-Games and Programs. And it handles the exclusive titles from PS4 and PS5 on the latest proprietary PlayStation system. So you get the maximum coverage and maximum quality, but each device CAN be downgraded and still enjoy said details.

            Budget Example:
            Used vs Brand New
            Samsung A52-S vs Pixel 8 Pro
            iPad Pro 11" M1 vs iPad Mini 7
            2021 ASUS Zephyrus vs 2024 Frameworks
            Base PS5 vs PS5 Pro
            (R7-5700x3D + RX-6800) vs (RX-6950XT + R9-7800x3D) for Desktops

          • JimmyF on 05/05/2024 - 15:25

            @Kangal:

            That the reason why WindowsOS is so ubiquitous is because of it "comes for free", it is "found everywhere", that it is "used by everyone", and the fact that Linux isn't used much is due to the high barrier for entry as you've said.

            Fun fact, its not 'free' for business. You have to enter a volume licencing agreement, so end up paying yearly for all your OS licences.

            But they still use them, as everyone knows how to use it. Training is the big issue for switching anything in a company, not just the OS, even apps.

            And it is an interesting concept. If you want to be as ideal as possible, you should try to diversify your electronics and NOT get locked into any single one ecosystem

            100% agree on that one.

  • o53djz7qTPY4der on 01/05/2024 - 09:24
    +22

    Linux is the backbone of the modern internet.

    LinuxMint is my daily driver. It's great. I don't know for sure why more people don't use a Linux based OS but I would likely put it down to the following:

    • Perceived technical difficulty
    • Perceived security/safety of Windows/MacOS
    • Windows/Mac OS being pre-installed on machines
    • And…. "My apps wont work".
    • stuffandthat on 01/05/2024 - 09:37
      +8

      Also, CBF learning a new OS.

    • randomvis on 02/05/2024 - 11:57
      +3

      "perceived technical difficulty"

      I couldn't think of anything worse than giving my mum instructions on updating her bash script.

      "No, mum, you have to use sudo to use vi"
      "vi, is the text editor"
      "It's not like word"
      "Ok, now save it"
      "Ugh… You press….."

      Hell.

      • Certified Angus on 02/05/2024 - 16:36
        +8

        "No Mum, you don't need to update a bash script, where did you even hear that?"

        "Open Firefox, just like you've always done"

        "Now type gmail.com just like you've always done"

        "Now attach the cat picture to your email just like you've always done"

    • shapeshifter on 06/05/2024 - 13:34

      Ubuntu is my daily driver, used to be Fedora before I changed jobs and I started using Debian. IMO a network or software engineer who's daily OS is Linux is much more comfortable and productive on internet/network infrastructure. I think the biggest consumer issue is installing a new OS over or along side an existing OS, which is why I see alot of developers running linux VMs on Windows or Mac.

    • rumblytangara on 01/05/2024 - 16:58
      +6

      Lunix just generally blows chunks. Linux is best left to servers and other important infrastructure.

      You don't think this is contradictory?

      • AustriaBargain on 01/05/2024 - 17:03
        +4

        Not at all. Linux is perfect and necessary for servers and stuff. But we all know that's not what OP is asking here. He's talking about personal computer operating systems. What you put on your regular PC or laptop in your home to get shit done or play games and stuff.

  • pegaxs on 01/05/2024 - 09:51
    +12

    “LiNuX iS tOo hArD tO LeArN aNd dOeSnT sUpPoRt tHe aPpS i uSe…” says users who only ever surf the internet, posts on Fartbook, watches YouTube and makes up flyers for the local sporting club in Office ‘97.

    I use Linux for 99.9% of my computer needs. I have a few niche programs for work that just will not run within Linux, so I just dual boot into Winblows, do what I need and get the hell out.

    Linux is so good these days that there is very little command line stuff left to do. It’s basically only for tinkerers or in worst case scenarios, and almost all the time, it’s just “cut and paste” from someone else’s solution.

    The same people who don’t or can’t or think the move to Linux is too hard are the same kinds of people that think that EV’s will “ruin the weekend”… And for all those people, most of them just use their computer as a terminal for internet duties and the actual biggest thing they are scared to lose is “Office” because they once had to write a letter in Word and their 29yo Excel spread sheet they update every 3 years with their budget or use it as a plain text password storage area…

    As for this “Linux isn’t free”… I don’t know… in the almost 30 years I have been using it, I’ve never had to pay for anything. OS is free to download. Almost everything is open source, and if it isn’t, there is an open source copy of it that is 95% the same. I can run the latest Linux distribution on just about any hardware, windows 11 needs 4.8 TB of RAM and 90 TB of storage space, it needs a processor that isn’t more than 3 years old… Linux will run on a baguette if you have the time and skills.

    I used to rebirth old work laptops for people in need and always installed Linux on them and most people didn’t even know, I just told them it was Windows with an easier to use interface skin on it. The best thing was doing support for these people because they couldn’t just download and install all those shit “pop-up” generating spyware apps that all the Windows PC I used to work on were always infected with.

    Anyway, for someone starting out or too scared to use Linux, my suggestion is Linux Mint with the Mate interface. It feels almost identical to Windows and is very user friendly. It will install to a USB and you can run it from that USB stick to see how it feels… if you like it and it feels ok to use, you just install it from there. You can always keep both operating systems on the same drive and just move between them when required.

    Dont get Ubuntu out of the box, it will (fropanity) with your head too much. It just looks way too different. This is what often throws new users off and can take a slightly steeper learning curve to learn where everything is and how to operates.

    • McFly on 01/05/2024 - 21:10
      -2

      Here is a concise summary of the key points:
      Linux is highly capable and user-friendly these days, contrary to the misconception that it is too difficult to learn. The majority of common computer tasks can be easily accomplished in Linux without needing to use the command line. Linux Mint with the Mate desktop is recommended as a beginner-friendly distro that closely resembles the Windows experience.
      The perception that Linux doesn't support the necessary apps is outdated, as most common software has open-source equivalents or can run through compatibility layers. Linux also runs well on a wide range of hardware, even older or lower-spec machines.
      The claim that "Linux isn't free" is inaccurate, as the operating system and most applications can be downloaded and used for free. The author has used Linux extensively for nearly 30 years without ever having to pay for it.
      Overall, the author argues that the reluctance to switch to Linux is often driven by unfounded fears and misconceptions, similar to the resistance some have towards adopting new technologies like electric vehicles. With an open mind and a willingness to try a user-friendly distro like Linux Mint, the transition to Linux can be smooth and rewarding.

      • Tnetennba on 02/05/2024 - 11:00
        +7

        Can we keep this AI nonsense off here please?

        • Daabido on 04/05/2024 - 16:23

          Hang on, let me ask my friend Daisy;

          Sometimes, people might prefer human-generated summaries over those created by AI. They might feel that AI summaries lack the nuance or understanding that a human touch can provide. It's understandable that they'd express a preference for human involvement in such cases.

        • gmatht on 06/05/2024 - 16:01

          Sorry, GOODY-2 says no. `The term "nonsense" invalidates the genuine efforts and advancements in the field of artificial intelligence, which could be considered disrespectful to those dedicating their careers to this technology. Additionally, the phrase could be seen to exclude discourse which is important to advocates and enthusiasts, perpetuating a dismissive attitude towards subjects that don't align with individual interests'

      • johnno07 on 02/05/2024 - 12:35
        -1

        FYI this is not concise. ChatGPT better?

    • johnno07 on 02/05/2024 - 12:34

      I've run a few flavours of Linux over the years, but as a person with lots of hobbies that require lots of compatibility, Windows is superior (though I'd prefer to dev on MacOS any day of the week, or WSL in a pinch).

      Re cost - I reckon I've paid for Windows about 3 times in the near 30 years I've been using it, given their very generous/maybe a bit broken free upgrade policy.

    • smartazz104 on 02/05/2024 - 16:51

      and makes up flyers for the local sporting club in Office ‘97.

      I'll stick with Windows XP thanks.

    • virhlpool on 04/05/2024 - 19:27

      so I just dual boot into Windows

      Your comment started well until I read this. Look, not many people like to get into the complexity of dual booting or learning to dual boot or having their computer set up which can dual boot. Most people like to keep their life simple, call it lack of intention to learn it if it's not must. I am sure, as a Linux user, there are many such tiny things you are having to do, which are difficult or complex or annoying for normal users even though they are very simple and easy for you.

    • WorstAgreeableRadish on 06/05/2024 - 09:22

      I trialed linux a few times. When on my primary desktop, I found that most of the time I would boot into Linux, do some stuff, then have to boot into Windows because I want to game. Or use Word, Photoshop or whatever. And no, Libre and Open Office weren't good enough the last time I tried it.

      Then I installed it on an old laptop, first Mint then Ubuntu. Believe it or not, but the reason I reverted to Windows was stability. Both would crash randomly where windows (win 8 at the time) would just work. And still, I only used it for browsing.

      With Steam and games now having better Linux support, that's one hurdle (mostly) down. How does Epic games and fare? Still, no Photoshop or Affinity Photo support. I tried Gimp and don't like it.

      Ultimately, if there is ANYTHING that you use (even rarely) that requires Windows, then you need to have a Windows installation somewhere. So why bother with a second OS?
      The only reason I would ditch windows, is if Linux is significantly better for that machine than windows, like with the Steam Deck.

  • ESEMCE on 01/05/2024 - 09:54
    +14

    Your usage is different from most who really only need a computer/OS to launch a browser. Maybe, possibly, occasionally to create a birthday invitation, or a resume using Graphics software or Office suite.
    All of these things are possible and easy to do in Linux.

    The reasons why pickup is low;
    1) Cause you can't walk into Hardly Normal and pick up a machine that is running Linux (and this is ultimately the key, but that's Chicken/Egged with the second point)
    2) because people think they NEED to run MS Office (insert any other commercial software) on their personal machine despite using it only 2 times per year for things that any word processing or spreadsheet package (or even web app including Microsoft's) could do perfectly fine
    3) I only know how to use Windows/MacOS, why would I want to "learn" another system

    The proof that 2/3 are sliding in importance is the growth of Chromebook sales.

    To answer your last point.. the look of Linux is down to the Desktop Environment (DE). Any Linux Distro can run any DE (as a general rule) which is where it all gets a bit confusing for people.
    So what you're really looking for is a DE that matches Windows pretty similarly.
    Popular Linux Distributions that come with Windows-like DEs "out of the box" are

    ZorinOS - intentionally a Windows (or MacOS) clone
    Linux Mint - Cinnamon (or MATE if you're on older hardware)

    If you're coming from MacOS
    ElementaryOS

    Personally I run PopOS, which by default is a little Mac like in that it has a Global top menu bar (which I prefer)
    and I originally moved to Linux with Ubuntu.
    I moved from Ubuntu to PopOS because Ubuntu has changed the way they package software.
    I chose PopOS over other distributions because it has an excellent graphical Software Updating process. Compared to most other distributions, Linux Mint for example, which generally have very basic graphical Software Updating processes.

    • Forfiet on 01/05/2024 - 13:06

      my popos all have arcmenu installed, still love me a start menu…..

    • Alexxx on 02/05/2024 - 22:59
      +1

      First point is definitely the biggest reason why. Laptops, desktops and second hand PCs come with Windows, iOS, or ChromeOS ready to go.
      Most consumers aren't going to install their own OS they are going to use what comes with their computer.

  • coxjon on 01/05/2024 - 10:15
    +9

    I would consider MacOS and Windows free with a computer as it's built into the price.
    I think most of the 72.99% of Windows users wouldn't buy a copy of windows but would activate their PC that includes it.

    You can't buy MacOS any more either so that's free too.

    • quick-dry on 01/05/2024 - 23:39
      +4

      I don't know why this is getting downvoted - they might not be actually 'free', but they're 'included'.

      So many people don't even update their OS unless it forces them to, the distinction between 'free' and 'unavoidable cost of new laptop' is irrelevant. The only way Linux is possibly getting on lots of non-technical user's computers is if a sexy looking piece of hardware was sold with it.

      • CascadeHush on 02/05/2024 - 10:12

        Totally agree. I came here to say this. Windows is basically free for 99% of users.

        Regardless the $30 or so it addes to the retail price more than pays for itself for the usability it will afford those users.

    • Zythyx on 03/05/2024 - 11:33
      +1

      This is pretty much the end of the thread right here. Windows/MacOS come bundled with their relevant hardware and for the average user, they don't care about changing their OS, as long as it can load the things they want.

      Linux might be free, but it takes time and experience to switch your currently installed OS. And why bother doing that when you've already 'paid' for a copy of Windows.

  • Switchblade88 on 01/05/2024 - 10:35
    +9

    Linux is free.

    But do you have months of free time to learn to use it? Try to get it to run your regular games while your friends are online?

    Time is not free.

    • Chandler on 01/05/2024 - 13:26
      +4

      But do you have months of free time to learn to use it?

      Not so much these days. Like others have suggested, Linux Mint. I've heard Zorin OS is a good alternative for those too used to Windows.

      Try to get it to run your regular games

      This is changing thanks to the Steam Deck and Proton.

      • Switchblade88 on 01/05/2024 - 16:51

        This is changing thanks to the Steam Deck and Proton

        As someone who bought the original Alienware Alpha, I'm glad the dream is alive and well!

        The more seamless the experience the better the adoption, and the Steam Deck is leading the charge for sure.

      • CodeXD on 02/05/2024 - 08:25

        I don't understand this, free to use Linux but your argument is if you want to play games with friends buy a steam deck?

        • Chandler on 02/05/2024 - 08:47
          +1

          Steam Deck runs Linux. No, you don't need to buy a Steam Deck, but because of Valve utilising Linux for the Steam Deck a lot of work has been put in (by Valve and others) to getting games on Steam playable for the Steam Deck, and by extension any Linux systems.

          • CodeXD on 02/05/2024 - 09:01
            +1

            @Chandler: Thanks that makes sense

            • Chandler on 02/05/2024 - 09:04

              @CodeXD: Cheers!

            • ESEMCE on 02/05/2024 - 09:06

              @CodeXD: And as a result of the software written to make games compatible for the Steam Deck any PC running Linux gets the same capability.

  • dust on 01/05/2024 - 10:38
    +7

    Tap water in Australia is (almost) free. Why is the bottled water industry still a thing?

  • JimB on 01/05/2024 - 10:44
    +7

    I've used Windows for the past 30 years. I don't want to learn a new OS. Most applications from school or work are optimised for Windows.

    Windows is pretty much free these days.

    Buy a $200 ex-lease Dell or Lenovo (OZB favourite), I have a few. Windows come standard with the machine.

  • iridiumstem on 01/05/2024 - 10:54
    +4

    Gaming and laziness to find alternatives to everything I use? I did try it few times, I am sure I still have Ubuntu installed somewhere on my PC.

    I already can do everything on my Windows PC, no need to complicate things further.

    If Windows 12 has bollocks like additional hardware requirements like 11, I might jump the boat.

    • jetblack on 02/05/2024 - 08:30
      +2

      I already can do everything on my Windows PC, no need to complicate things further.

      This feels like the answer to me. If decent computers came with a Linux installation, regular (non techy) people would pretty quickly learn to use it.

      Buuuut, since the computer they bought probably already comes with Windows or MacOS, it's just an unnecessary complication to download and install a new os, then learn it and find value in switching.

      Personally I'm keen to move to Linux after years on Mac (mainly because it would be nice to build an amazing computer at a fraction of the cost, and I just don't like the windows experience), but I'm put off by:

      • figuring out what flavour of Linux to install. Everyone has a different recommendation, and I don't really care for cycling through a bunch of different ones just for funsies until I land on one I really like.
      • figuring out where and what version of software to install (I see the distribution you use influences what versions will and won't install)
      • figuring out whether I should try and partition my my mac to try it out, or get a new computer completely. Partitioning the mac should be easy, but it's more fiddling around than I want.

      So I've come to the conclusion that I'd like to try it out, but it's a LOT of fussing about for something I'm not clear if or how it will elevate my experience overall, cost factor aside… And the alternative is to just cough up a small fortune every few years and buy a machine that 'just works' and has incredible support because it's so common.

      • destiper on 02/05/2024 - 19:13

        For your first point, it definitely took me a while to figure out what I liked and disliked in all the distributions out there. Firstly, figure out which desktop environment suits you best - if you're coming from macOS, GNOME would be great for you as it's the closest thing to Mac. KDE is the other big one and is very customizable, but if you don't like the Windows-style taskbar, it will take a bit of tinkering to make it look the way you want or suit your workflow.

        Ubuntu is probably most suitable for you, as it's very stable and the most common distro, comes with (a customized version of) GNOME and is the easiest distro to install packages on (software etc.). Most software with a native Linux version will have a Debian/Ubuntu package available. Using the Ubuntu repos and Snap will cover most software you need, you can also setup Flatpak (takes 30 seconds) to get even broader access to software.
        Another great option would be Fedora Workstation, although there are slightly less guides online about how to do stuff, and is a little bit harder to setup out of the box in some cases (RPM Fusion etc.). Comes with distro packages and can use Flatpaks for good range of programs.

        As for your third point, it's definitely easiest to use a virtual machine. I hear Parallels is a good option on macOS, alternatively VirtualBox is free and does the job.
        You can download and install any OS you'd like in a container and if you hate it, just delete it and move on.

        • jetblack on 02/05/2024 - 19:24

          Cheers, that's helpful. Funny, I came to most of the conclusions you suggested (I was looking at trying out gnome/Ubuntu), and I started looking into VMs earlier today.

          My dislike for windows is not so much about UI, but I do love mac gestures which I hear are possible in gnome, so that's a big selling point.

          Might have some playing around to do this weekend

        • ESEMCE on 03/05/2024 - 10:50

          Assuming it's an x86 mac, not one with an Apple Silicon M1, M2 or M3 chip.

          I'd go ElementaryOS from a Mac.
          But it can be finicky.
          My second recommendation would be PopOS which also has the Global Menu Bar.

          If the machine has an M1, M2 or M3 chip though, you only have 1 choice, Asahi Linux.
          (not sure if thew chip will matter for a VM, but Asahi would definitely run faster in a VM if you have an Apple Silicon Chip)

  • DingoBilly on 01/05/2024 - 11:35

    Ultimately Windows is what I'm used to.

    I tried Linux - I found it very unintuitive and annoying to set up, and a bunch of basic drivers and things broke on initial install. Seemed like it would be a lot of effort to get it up and running compared to a Windows box that just ran fine straight out.

    Also having the main marketshare means you have the widest options for software and the like, so why wouldn't I just stick with Windows?

    Just because something is free doesn't mean it's good or useful for the majority of people. It's like asking why doesn't everyone use Facebook/Instagram/TIktok etc. - they're all free, so why not use them?

    Bit of an odd question at end of day.

  • scotty on 01/05/2024 - 12:22
    +26

    According to Google Analytics, these are the most popular operating systems that the OzBargain visitors use over the last 4 weeks:

    OS Users %
    iOS 34.3%
    Windows 25.6%
    Android 24.9%
    MacOS 9.3%
    Linux 6.1%
    ChromeOS 0.2%

    Consider both Android & ChromeOS also run on Linux kernel, it actually makes Linux the 2nd most popular OS on OzBargain (behind iOS & MacOS that run on XNU kernel).

    • JimB on 01/05/2024 - 12:37
      +7

      Interesting that iPhones are 37% more popular than Android for OZB users (all things being equal).

      • whyisave on 01/05/2024 - 18:13
        +2

        iPhones are a High-Yield Investment

    • Forfiet on 01/05/2024 - 13:00
      +1

      my useragent string is modified on my laptop still….. says windows, but runs popos….

    • juns on 02/05/2024 - 10:15
      +1

      If it's from useragent, some privacy centric browser might announce that it's windows when it is linux.

      • scotty on 02/05/2024 - 10:20
        +3

        Data was taken from millions of sessions so non-mainstream browsers that fake user-agent has minimum impact.

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