The best operating systems serves as the fundamental backbone for computer functionality. It acts as an orchestrator, making sure that software and peripheral hardware work together and that memory and storage tasks can be done on the central processing unit (CPU). It also makes it possible for multiple applications to run smoothly at the same time.
In the world of software development, developers often choose certain operating systems that make it easier to write code and make apps. On the other hand, most regular users rely on proprietary systems made for more common tasks. The best Operating systems like Microsoft’s Windows, Apple’s OS X, different Linux distributions, and mobile operating systems made for smartphones are often used by businesses.
What is an Operating System?
An operating system (OS) is system software that controls the hardware and software resources of a computer and gives programs different services. It acts as a bridge between the hardware parts of a computer system and the programs or applications that run on it. The main things that an operating system does are:
????️ Hardware Abstraction: The OS hides the complexity of the hardware underneath, giving software programs a consistent and standardized way to talk to the hardware. With this abstraction, software can talk to hardware parts like the CPU, memory, storage, and peripherals without needing to know how they work.
???? Process Management: It takes care of and plans when individual programs or tasks that will run on the CPU are called “processes.” This includes multitasking, in which multiple processes can run at the same time and the OS makes sure that CPU time is shared fairly and well.
???? Memory Management: The operating system (OS) allots and manages system memory. This makes sure that each application has access to the memory resources it needs and keeps one application from messing with the memory of another.
???? File System Management: It gives you a file system that lets you create, read, write, and organize files and directories on storage devices like hard drives, solid-state drives, and removable media.
????️ Device Management: The OS is in charge of how hardware like keyboards, mice, printers, network adapters, and more interact with each other and with the computer. It gives device drivers that make it easier for software and hardware to talk to each other.
Best Operating Systems Comparison Table
Users can see the pros and cons of the best operating systems, like Windows, macOS, and Linux, by looking at a table that compares them. It looks at things like how easy it is to use, how safe it is, how well it works with other programs, and how customizable it is. This helps people find the best operating system for their needs and preferences.
| Operating System | Manufacturer/Developer | Primary Use | User Interface | License Type | Kernel Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| macOS Sonoma | Apple | General Purpose | GUI (Aqua) | Proprietary | Unix-based (XNU) |
| SteamOS | Valve | Gaming | Big Picture Mode | Proprietary | Linux |
| Red Hat Enterprise Linux | Red Hat, Inc. | Enterprise Servers | GUI (GNOME) | Commercial | Linux |
| Cisco NX-OS | Cisco | Networking | CLI | Proprietary | Linux |
| Solaris | Oracle | Enterprise Servers | CLI, GUI (CDE) | Commercial | Unix-based |
| Ubuntu | Canonical Ltd. | General Purpose | GUI (GNOME) | Open Source | Linux |
| macOS | Apple | General Purpose | GUI (Aqua) | Proprietary | Unix-based (XNU) |
| Android | Mobile Devices | GUI (varies) | Open Source | Linux | |
| Windows | Microsoft | General Purpose | GUI (Windows) | Proprietary | Windows NT-based |
macOS Sonoma
Features
- Home screen widgets
- Safari lets you make more than one user profile.
- Private browsing tabs that are locked
- Big changes for the better in videoconferencing
- Not too much to learn
Among the most exciting changes are new desktop widgets, a new game mode, and a set of improvements to favorite apps like Safari and Messages. Anyway, I think Sonoma will make your Mac better and easier to use, but you won’t notice any huge changes. Still, this is one of the best Operating systems you can consider now.
I’ve been testing beta versions of macOS Sonoma for months. These early versions gave me a sneak peek at what improvements like interactive widgets, a more powerful Safari, and a dedicated Game Mode would bring. Even though it’s not a huge change, macOS Sonoma makes your Mac more useful and fun to use.
Pros
- Widgets add value
- Safari upgrades are useful
- Game Mode is a promising addition
- Reactions and videoconferencing upgrades are fun
Cons
- Game Mode lacks controls or feedback
SteamOS
Features
- Designed for gaming and media center PCs.
- Based on Linux and optimized for Steam games.
- Supports game streaming and Big Picture mode for TV use.
SteamOS is a Linux-based operating system that is based on Debian 8 and runs Valve’s Steam and Steam games. This OS works with standard GNU/Linux drivers for graphics and sound. Since it is free and open source, programmers and developers can change the way the operating system works. SteamOS is good for gamers because it is made for games. You can have fun with the newest games because they have great features and work well. When you have SteamOS, you can add more software and content.
Most Steam game consoles use this operating system. It is considered one of the best gaming operating systems for PCs and laptops. It works with graphics processors from NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel, so it can be used with many drivers. Valve is also working with companies that offer streaming services to bring these to the operating system. Overall, this is one of the best Operating systems you can consider now.
Pros
- Designed for gaming and Steam integration.
- Open-source nature allows for customization.
- Lightweight for gaming performance.
Cons
- Limited software compatibility outside of gaming.
- Smaller user base compared to mainstream OS.
Red Hat Enterprise Linux
Features
- Enterprise-grade Linux distribution.
- Offers long-term support and stability.
- Suitable for servers and mission-critical applications.
- Extensive security features and support options.
Red Hat Enterprise Linux is an operating system that is open source, flexible, and strong. RHEL lets you scale up and release new technologies and applications. It works with environments that are virtual, bare metal, in the cloud, and in containers. Many vendors and clouds have certified this Linux OS for business use. It provides a consistent base for many environments and tools, which speeds up the delivery of work and services.
RHEL makes it easy to deploy applications quickly and save money at the same time. The Red Hat Enterprise Linux OS makes it possible to work together, develop, and come up with new ideas. There are security features built into your computer system that keep it safe from threats. It makes hybrid cloud infrastructure available on tens of thousands of nodes around the world. Still, this is one of the best Operating systems you can consider now.
Pros
- Strong security features.
- Enterprise-level support.
- Stable and reliable for server environments.
Cons
- Requires subscription for full support.
- Not as user-friendly for desktop use.
Cisco NX-OS
Features
- Network operating system for Cisco’s data center switches.
- Designed for high-performance data center networking.
- Provides advanced networking and virtualization features.
Cisco NX-OS is an operating system for data centers that was made to be very scalable, resilient, and flexible. It can help your business speed up business operations by automating them and giving you a clear view of what’s going on. The best way for this OS to work is with a network-based data fabric architecture, which is an integrated data layer that is turned on by data sources. A layer of abstraction is put on top of the data components, which makes it easy for businesses to get insights.
It cuts down on how much data science analysis you have to do on your data. Cisco NX-OS comes in different versions, and the flexible subscription model lets you choose which features you want. Data center networking essentials, advantage, and premier are the three most important features. Overall, this is one of the best Operating systems you can consider now.
Pros
- Specialized for Cisco networking hardware.
- High-performance networking capabilities.
- Stability in network environments.
Cons
- Not intended for general-purpose computing.
- Limited to Cisco hardware compatibility.
Solaris
Features
- Unix-based operating system developed by Oracle.
- Known for its scalability and reliability.
- Used in enterprise and data center environments.
- Supports containers and virtualization technologies.
Solaris is an open-source operating system that is based on Unix. It is known for being scalable and having security features. You can do a lot of things with just one command, which makes it easy to use. This leading operating system has a large community that builds different operating systems based on Solaris, keeps the security up to date, and regularly adds new features. The hybrid kernel in Solaris lets you run both native and foreign programs. If your business needs to handle a lot of data, you might want to install Solaris for its data management features. Thus, this is one of the best Operating systems you can consider now.
Pros
- Scalability and reliability for enterprise-level use.
- Advanced features like ZFS file system.
- Strong security features.
Cons
- Limited third-party software support.
- Smaller community and user base.
Ubuntu
Features
- Popular Linux distribution for desktops and servers.
- User-friendly with a large software repository.
- Regular release cycles with LTS (Long Term Support) versions.
- Community and commercial support options.
Ubuntu is an operating system based on Linux that was made for computers, smartphones, and network servers. It is the best operating system for Web servers and cloud computing. This operating system is fully customizable, so you can change the fonts, system animations, and notification sounds to make a GUI that is unique to you.
Since Ubuntu is open source, it has a large community that builds new features that you can add to your operating system. You can translate Ubuntu into 50 different languages, which shows how many people use it. It’s quick, safe, and good for gaming. Also, if you know how to write code, you can use Ubuntu to make the best operating system. Overall, this is one of the best Operating systems you can consider now.
Pros
- User-friendly and easy to use.
- Large software repository.
- Regular updates and long-term support options.
Cons
- Some software may not be officially supported.
- Privacy concerns with Unity desktop (in past versions).
macOS
Features
- Apple’s desktop operating system.
- Known for its sleek user interface and ease of use.
- Seamless integration with other Apple devices.
- Extensive multimedia and creative software support.
macOS is a computer operating system for Apple Macintosh computers. It is known for how reliable it is and how easy it is to use. It works well, is stable, and is easy to use. When you go to the Mac app store, you can see how many apps are available. This OS is often updated to make it more secure and useful. Still, this is one of the best Operating systems you can consider now.
Malware can still hurt your computer, but macOS updates will change the computer’s system and applications to make them less dangerous. Apple products are liked by a lot of people because they are easy to use. Also, apps are tested a lot before they are fully integrated, which makes for great performance.
Pros
- Sleek and user-friendly interface.
- Strong hardware-software integration.
- Robust multimedia and creative software.
Cons
- Limited hardware options (Apple only).
- Can be expensive.
- Limited gaming support.
Android
Features
- Open-source mobile operating system.
- Developed by Google and used in smartphones and tablets.
- Supports a wide range of apps from the Google Play Store.
- Highly customizable and used by various device manufacturers.
Google and the Open Handset Alliance worked together to make the Android OS for mobile phones. This open-source software stack lets a lot of apps be used and changed. Because of these features, it is more popular among smartphone makers. Overall, this is one of the best Operating systems you can consider now.
On Android, for example, you can make your own GUI. There are more than 2 million apps for the Android OS, and they all load and run quickly. Android OS can be found on PCs, cars, TVs, cameras, game consoles, and tablets, among other things.
Pros
- Dominates the mobile device market.
- Customization options for Android users.
- Extensive app ecosystem.
Cons
- Fragmentation across different devices.
- Security vulnerabilities on some devices.
- Updates may be delayed by manufacturers.
Windows
Features
- Microsoft’s flagship operating system for PCs.
- Supports a wide range of software and hardware.
- Evolving user interface with regular updates.
- Used in business, gaming, and personal computing.
Microsoft’s Windows is one of the best operating systems for personal computers and laptops. Many computers already have Windows OS on them. It is the best operating system for desktop and laptop computers because of how well it works, how productive it is, how well it is supported, and how well it has system utilities.
You can easily change this OS to work the way you want it to. Windows OS has a lot of well-known features that make it more secure, efficient, and private. Overall, Windows is easy to use, even for people who don’t know much about computers. It is fast, safe, cheap, and easy to use. Thus, this is one of the best Operating systems you can consider now.
Pros
- Widely used with broad software compatibility.
- Extensive gaming support.
- Regular updates and new features.
Cons
- Frequent updates may disrupt workflow.
- Security vulnerabilities are a concern.
- Licensing costs for Windows Pro and Enterprise editions.
How to Choose the Best Operating System for You?
Choosing the best operating system (OS) for you depends on your hardware, software needs, personal preferences, and how you plan to use it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed choice:
???? Find Out What You Have: Before diving into the world of operating systems, it’s essential to know what your computer or device is capable of. Understand the specifics of your CPU, RAM, storage, and graphics capabilities. Remember that certain OS options may require specific hardware components to function optimally.
???? Think about getting along: Before making a decision, ensure that the OS you choose is compatible with your existing hardware. Not all operating systems are compatible with every type of hardware, so compatibility is key.
???? Think about compatibility: Before finalizing your choice, check if the OS you’re considering can run the software you need. Ensure that your essential programs are compatible with your chosen OS, or explore suitable alternatives to meet your requirements.
????️ Safety and Changes: Prioritize the security features and update mechanisms of your chosen OS. Regular security updates are crucial to keeping your system safe and protected from threats.
????️ Preferences for the user interface: Consider your personal preferences for the user interface (UI). Some OSes offer traditional desktop interfaces, while others are optimized for touchscreens or tablets. If possible, test out the UI to determine which one suits you best.
???? Choices for personalization: Evaluate the level of customization offered by different operating systems. If you enjoy customizing your desktop and workflow, choose an OS that aligns with your personalization preferences.
???? Integration and the Ecosystem: Think about the devices and services you currently use and how they interact with your chosen OS. For instance, if you are heavily invested in Apple products, macOS and iOS may provide a seamless experience due to their integration within the Apple ecosystem.
FAQs
Microsoft’s Windows is one of the best operating systems for personal computers and laptops. Many computers already have Windows OS on them. It is the best operating system for desktop and laptop computers because of how well it works, how productive it is, how well it is supported, and how well it has system utilities.
Linux is thought to be the best and most effective operating system for making software. Open-source is a benefit of using Linux. The best thing about Linux is that it is open-source, which means that new users can try it out for free.
