- Linux outperforms Windows 11 in boot speed, RAM usage, and file management.
- Windows maintains its dominance thanks to its universal compatibility with professional software and AAA video games.
- It is possible to combine both worlds using WSL or virtual machines so as not to give up any tool.
With Windows 10 support just around the corner in October 2025, many people are seriously considering switching to Linux . And rightly so, as the gaming ecosystem has seen impressive growth, largely thanks to the Steam Deck, and interest in this system continues to rise, especially among developers and those who want to protect their privacy.
However, if we look at the actual market figures, the picture changes considerably. In the world of desktop computers, Windows dominates, maintaining a market share of nearly 70%, while Linux barely reaches 4%. This tells us that the vast majority prefer to play it safe with Microsoft, even if they have to buy a new PC just to meet the system requirements. But is this dominance justified, or is Linux really the fastest option?
What exactly are we talking about when we say Linux and Windows?
To start with the basics, Linux isn't a single operating system, but rather an open-source kernel that manages the hardware. Popular distributions like Ubuntu, Fedora, and Linux Mint are built on top of this kernel, offering different interfaces and ways of working. The most powerful aspect here is that, being public code, anyone can review it, guaranteeing no secrets or hidden telemetry , and the vast majority are completely free.
In the other corner, we have Windows, Microsoft's commercial product that's the standard in almost every office. Its strength is undoubtedly its massive compatibility with programs and peripherals. From the Adobe suite to Office, almost all professional software is designed with Windows in mind. Furthermore, connecting a printer or mouse is usually a simple plug-and-play process , without having to struggle with drivers.
Fundamental differences in design and experience
The philosophies of both are polar opposites. Linux is an open system where the community collaborates to fix bugs at breakneck speed, while Windows is a closed, proprietary system managed exclusively by Microsoft. This makes Linux incredibly flexible, although it does require users to have some technical knowledge to get the most out of it.
As for the interface, Windows prioritizes a consistent and highly intuitive mouse-based experience. In contrast, Linux lets you choose any environment you like, from GNOME to KDE Plasma, mimicking the aesthetics of Windows or macOS as you prefer. However, it's quite likely that at some point you'll need to use the terminal to adjust settings, which might be a bit daunting for those unfamiliar with it.
The speed duel: Who wins in performance?
This is where things get interesting. It's often said that Linux distributions are incredibly fast because they have ridiculously low minimum requirements compared to Windows 11, which requires a TPM 2.0 chip and a significant amount of disk space. But is it true that they're faster? Several objective analyses, such as those by PhoneBuff and Jordan Gloor, indicate that Linux usually wins hands down in technical tests.
- Start-up times: While Windows 11 can take an average of 61 seconds to restart, a distro like Fedora can do it in just 27 seconds.
- RAM usage: At idle, Windows 11 can consume more than 80% of RAM on modest computers, while Linux Fedora comfortably stays around 32%.
- File management: Native file extraction in Linux is drastically faster, dropping from 57 seconds in Windows to about 12 seconds.
- Development applications: Tools like VS Code start and run processes in much less time on the Linux kernel.
The most surprising thing is that Linux can transform an old laptop, which with Windows 10 was practically a paperweight, into a fully usable machine . By eliminating the bloatware, ads, and telemetry that so weigh down Windows 11, hardware resources are dedicated exclusively to what the user needs.
Why do we still use Windows when Linux is faster?
If Linux is so efficient, why doesn't everyone use it? The answer is simple: the software ecosystem is unbeatable . If your work depends on Photoshop, Premiere, or AutoCAD, you have no alternative. The same is true for AAA video games; although Proton has worked wonders, many games with strict anti-cheat systems only run on Windows.
Furthermore, in the corporate environment, tools like Active Directory make managing thousands of computers easy for IT departments. Added to this is the inertia of habit : most of us have learned to use computers with Windows, and switching involves a learning curve that many people are unwilling to take due to the comfort of the system.
The best way to avoid choosing: Use both systems
The good news is that you no longer have to commit to just one side. WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux) allows you to run Linux within Windows without restarting your PC. It's the ideal option for developers who want the power of the Linux terminal but the compatibility of Windows for their everyday apps.
Another option is virtualized operating systems with VirtualBox or VMware, where you can install a complete distribution just like any other program. For the more adventurous, dual booting allows you to install both systems on separate disks, booting whichever one you need at any given time. In fact, many modern mini PCs are designed to work seamlessly with both environments.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities: if you're looking for complete privacy, pure development, or want to revive an old PC, Linux is for you. If you need specific professional software, maximum hardware compatibility, and don't want technical complications, Windows is still king. The smartest thing to do these days is to take advantage of interoperability between systems to get the best of both worlds without sacrificing any essential tools.
