Both Linux and Windows have their benefits and pitfalls. A major win with Windows is that it’s very user-friendly, where Linux isn’t. However, Linux is open source which lends itself to many advantages. Have a look at our comparison chart below and decide for yourself.
| Operating System | Linux |
Windows |
| Cost | Linux can be freely distributed. There are paid for versions, but they come in cheaper than majority of the competition. | A lifetime license for Windows Home starts at R2 499. |
| Development and Distribution | Linux is developed and distributed through sharing and collaboration of code and distributed by multiple vendors. | Windows is solely developed by Microsoft. Various companies resell the software, but primary distribution is done by Microsoft. |
| Manufacturer | Linux is developed by the community. Linus Torvalds, the founder of Linux, oversees things. | Microsoft |
| User | Users can be everyone, however it is generally favoured in the developer and computer enthusiast market. | Everyone – Microsoft is hailed for their user-friendliness of Windows. |
| Usage | Linux can be installed on a wide variety of systems from mobile phones to video game consoles to super computers. | Windows can be installed on PC desktops, laptops, servers and some mobile devices. |
| File system support | Ext2, Ext3, Ext4, Jfs, ReiserFS, Xfs, Btrfs, FAT, FAT32, NTFS | FAT, FAT32, NTFS, exFAT |
| Updates | Many methods | Windows Update |
| License | General Public License (GNU) | Proprietary |
| Available Languages | Multilingual | Multilingual |
| Default UI (User Interface) | Gnome, KDE or many other desktops | Graphical (Windows Aero) |
| Source Model | Free Software | Closed/Shared source |
| Supported Platforms | All | PowerPC: versions 1.0 – NT 4.0; DEC Alpha: versions 1.0 – NT 4.0; MIPS R4000: versions 1.0 – NT 4.0; IA-32: versions 1.0 – 8; IA-64: version XP; x86-64: versions XP – 8; ARM: version RT; |
| OS Family | GNU | DOS |
| Programmed in | C | Assembly, C, C++ |
| Compatibility | New versions of Linux support can be found in many different kinds of hardware | Can coexist on local networks with Windows, BSD, Macs, and other Unix-like systems. Sometimes file compatibility issues may arise. |