Which OS Is Best: Windows, macOS, linux, or ChromeOS?

Beneath its glossy surface that takes design cues from ChromeOS and macOS, Windows 11 is still quite similar to Windows 10; it gets you nearly the same wide selection of computer hardware, software, and video games. Windows 11 requires a PC with a recent CPU and a security chip called a TPM, but the latter has been standard on computers for several years anyway. So far, it has embraced generative AI the most out of the mainstream OSes, thanks to Copilot.

Windows 11 does offer some new capabilities not available in Windows 10, however, including Snap Layouts for organizing program windows on the desktop, new HDR display support, and better security. It also includes an improved File Explorer with a tabbed interface, a Live Captions speech-to-text feature that works with any audio that's playing on the PC, and new video editing and sound recording apps. The 2024 Windows update brings a redesigned Copilot AI, new platform code to improve performance and security, an Energy Saver mode, and minor updates to the Start menu and Taskbar, including better phone integration.

A new class of machines, called Copilot+ PCs, runs Windows 11 24H2. These get AI features like Recall, Cocreator image generation, and Click to Do, which overlays button options in apps based on your likely actions. Copilot+ PCs use Qualcomm Snapdragon Arm CPUs, as well as chips from AMD and Intel.

Apple's desktop operating system is polished, capable, and reliable. It gets big updates every year, with Sequoia being the latest. If you're going to use macOS, Apple is your sole option in terms of device manufacturer (though it's a good one). Options range from the $600 Mac mini through MacBook laptops to the top-end Mac Pro. All the latest Macs run Arm-based Apple silicon processors, with names like M1, M2, and M3. These rival the top Intel chips in performance and require less power.

The macOS interface is as slick as it gets and more consistent than any of the other OS choices here. It also ties in well with iPhones and other Apple devices. Stage Manager gives you flexibility with your windows and how you multitask among them. Apple's OS is document-based rather than program-based, like Windows, so the operating system provides the same menu for every app at the top of the screen. This can be a stumbling block if you move between Windows and macOS, as can the differences between the Mac's Finder and Windows File Explorer. Distinctions between Windows' Taskbar and macOS's Dock (along with the lack of a Start menu) also require some adjustment.

Macs come with a superb array of software and utilities, such as the excellent Apple Photos, iMovie, and GarageBand. You also get Maps, Podcasts, Mail, Calendar, Notes, and Reminders. We can't forget the fine web browser Safari, either, which offers good synergy with its mobile counterparts as well as decent privacy features.

Gaming has long been something of a weak point for Macs, but it's improving. As PCMag lead hardware analyst Brian Westover writes, "It hasn't reached the point where anyone would look at their gaming laptop and seriously consider ditching it for a similarly potent MacBook Pro." Apple does include good parental controls in macOS with Screen Time, and the system has a sterling reputation for security.

Google's desktop operating system started out by providing a web browser and little else. The idea was for it to be an entirely cloud-powered system that ran only web apps and used Google Drive to store all your data. ChromeOS has moved beyond that now, with Android apps from the Google Play store being its main source of software. It offers true desktop features like file folders for local files, the Google Assistant voice AI, a night mode, and tight integration with Android phones.

A variety of inexpensive Chromebook laptops and Chromeboxes (the desktop version) run ChromeOS. You might still be able to find some all-in-one Chromebase devices, but most manufacturers are promoting Chromebook Plus models—laptops with sufficient CPU power, storage, and screen resolutions to run more demanding software. These PCs can use unique Google tech like Magic Eraser (of Pixel commercial fame), add special effects to Google Meet video calls, and handle an impressive web version of Photoshop.

The operating system's interface is clear and minimal. There's a shelf that's similar to Windows' Taskbar, and the program launcher and settings work well. Google continues to add conveniences, like Android phone tethering, picture-in-picture video, better offline functionality, and multiple virtual desktops. Its clever Tote feature keeps recent documents and images at the ready. The OS supports touch and stylus input, as well as works with many printer models (though not as many as macOS and Windows).

Google recently added more generative AI features to ChromeOS, such as a Gemini app, live transcriptions with translation, and the ability to summarize text. Also new for the OS is Welcome Recap, which can get you quickly back to your tasks whenever you resume using the computer after a break.

ChromeOS has two distinct app stores, the Chrome Web Store and Google Play, which have some of the same entries. Some Android apps behave inconsistently on Chrome, but the situation is improving, and Google seems keen on making Google Play the main place you get apps. You won't find high-end applications on ChromeOS, such as pro-level media editing software. However, Google has created a full suite of apps and services for the education market.

If you're a student or prefer simplicity, ChromeOS might be right for you. If you want to play the latest AAA video games, edit videos and photos with professional-grade software, or run advanced hardware like VR headsets or 3D printers, choose another OS.

Ubuntu is completely free and based mostly on open-source software. It's not the product of a giant tech company that's out to lock you into its ecosystem, and you never need to sign in with an account. You can install Ubuntu from Canonical Ltd. on nearly any computer, including Chromebooks, Macs, and Windows PCs. You can even run the operating system from a live USB stick, averting the need to fully install it.

The latest version of Ubuntu is 24.10 (Oracular Oriole). It uses the linux kernel version 6.11, which brings enhanced security and support for more recent CPUs. More in the realm of eye candy, 24.10 adopts the latest version of the Gnome desktop environment, which has new accent color options and redesigned dialog boxes. The newest Ubuntu release also improves legibility on small screens, Snap installations, and support for remote desktop sessions, network drives in the Files window, and progressive web apps (PWAs).

The OS includes the App Center app store, consolidated settings, expandable notifications, a file manager with search, and support for Microsoft Active Directory. Apps can be installed in several ways, including by adding software repositories.

Ubuntu has a pleasing interface and a workable selection of default apps, including browsers, email clients, office suites, and media apps. Unlike macOS, it supports touch input (though not as fully as Windows). linux systems are highly customizable, with many distros (such as Ubuntu) available. Those distros further come in different flavors—Kubuntu, Lubuntu, Ubuntu Budgie, Ubuntu Mate, and Xubuntu are all flavors of Ubuntu. They differ in preconfigured apps, interface designs, and settings.

A drawback is that linux requires a bit more tech-savvy than the other choices here. If you're squeamish about ever seeing a command line, choose another OS. Another drawback is that support for hardware peripherals is behind that of Windows, macOS, and even ChromeOS. Additionally, you can't use major desktop apps, such as Photoshop and Microsoft Office, though web versions of such programs are increasingly available and capable. Don't expect too much in the way of game selection, though there is a linux Steam app for the OS with a growing library.

Ubuntu strives to be as secure and stable as possible. That's no doubt why linux powers so many servers, which demand a high level of uptime. Ubuntu includes built-in security protections, and Canonical provides regular security patches and updates.