Choosing the right computer operating system for your needs can be a daunting task, since there are so many options available. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly laptop or a high-performance gaming rig, each OS has its strengths and weaknesses to consider.

Why You Should Use Windows

Windows remains the most popular desktop operating system for a good reason. When shopping for a new Windows machine, you’ll find a huge range of hardware options. Whether you’re looking for a budget $300 laptop for basic tasks or a high-end $2,000+ gaming PC, there’s something for everyone.

If you mainly use Microsoft apps or rely on older or niche software, Windows is likely your best bet. It also offers great support, with plenty of online resources and well-documented fixes for any issues that might come up. If you’ve used Windows throughout your life, I would recommend sticking to it unless you’re explicitly looking for a change, since it works well with most workflows and is pretty versatile.

If you’re a gamer, especially one who plays a lot of multiplayer titles, you should go for Windows without a second thought. It’s the de-facto operating system for gaming, and while gaming on Linux has made significant progress in recent years, it still struggles with multiplayer games—especially those that require intrusive anti-cheat.

Why You Should Use macOS

If you’re already invested in the Apple ecosystem, macOS is definitely worth considering. It integrates well with your Apple devices, and unlocks the entire suite of the Apple ecosystem features, like having the ability to mirror and control your iPhone right from your Mac. In my experience, it’s also the easiest operating system to use, so I’d recommend a Mac to anyone who isn’t very tech-savvy.

If you’re in the market for a laptop, I would strongly suggest considering a MacBook, since they are one of the best laptops around. That’s especially considering the balance they provide between efficiency and performance, which is rare for Windows laptops. I’ve been using an M1 MacBook Air since 2020, and I can confidently say it’s one of the most reliable machines I’ve ever owned.

You should also go for macOS if you’ll be primarily working with apps like Xcode or Final Cut Pro, since you can’t use them anywhere except a Mac. Keep in mind that you don’t have many options while configuring a Mac, and the hardware can be a bit pricey.

Why You Should Use Linux

If you like to tinker with your system and customize it to fit your needs, Linux is worth checking out. While Linux itself isn’t an operating system, it’s the core for various distributions, each offering its own features.

There are several Linux distros perfect for Windows users considering a switch to try. Even better, most distributions are completely free, so you don’t need to buy a new device to test Linux and can even install it on your current machine.

Linux is also fantastic for bringing old hardware back to life. If you have an outdated computer that struggles with Windows, a lightweight Linux distribution could make it usable again for simple tasks like browsing the web or checking email.

If you’re not ready to fully commit, you can dual-boot Ubuntu with Windows and enjoy both worlds. Gaming on Linux has improved a lot too, with Proton enabling you to play most Windows games through Steam. Before making the switch, I recommend checking out ProtonDB to see how your favorite games perform.

Why You Should Use ChromeOS

If you’re a parent looking for a laptop for your middle schooler, you’ve likely heard about Chromebooks. They’re popular in schools because they’re easy to manage remotely, making it simple for schools to oversee multiple devices. Plus, most Chromebooks are affordable, typically ranging from $200 to $300. This makes them perfect for reckless kids, since replacing a damaged device isn’t too costly.

That said, ChromeOS isn’t just for kids. If your work mainly involves using a browser for tasks like writing documents, it’s a great option. It’s simple to use and has little to no learning curve, and works great even on lower-end hardware. It’s also a solid choice if you use an Android phone and rely on apps like Google Docs and Google Drive. You’ll get an ecosystem similar to Apple’s, though not as feature-rich.

However, app support is limited, mainly restricted to Chrome and compatible Android apps. Plus, most Chromebooks aren’t powerful enough for more demanding tasks like video editing. If you’re unsure, you can try ChromeOS Flex on your old laptop—it’s essentially ChromeOS without Android app support.

I use a MacBook for work and school because it integrates seamlessly with my iPhone and lasts all day on a single charge. However, I also use a Windows device for gaming to get the best of both worlds. Ultimately, it all comes down to your workflow and budget to decide which operating system is right for you.