It has been 5 years since I switched from Windows to Linux permanently. What good is Microsoft's OS for me now?
By Pipe | 2024-03-23
Like many in my generation, I grew up on Windows. Starting at 95/98, I've moved through XP, Vista, 7, 8 (including Developer Preview and Consumer Preview), 8.1, and 10.
Windows 10 was called by Microsoft 'the last' and, ironically, it was, for me. 5 years ago, I switched to Linux permanently and never looked back.
So What good is Microsoft's OS for me now? Out of curiosity, I've decided to check.
Windows 11 looks nice. It is fresh and keeps things familiar.
Compared to versions 8, 8.1, and 10, 11 did meet me with fewer preinstalled and useless programs and ads.
Windows 11 is familiar, to the point of stagnant. It has nothing really new to offer apart from its look.
Performance wise it is a mixed bag, although I have to mention that I've been booting from an external hard drive. It is responsive enough until it's not.
Pretty looks come with a cost of layers upon layers of old and new GUI mixed together, which also reflects poorly on overall impression and performance.
After 5 years on Linux using mostly terminal programs and a window manager, I can no longer imagine getting any meaningful work done on Windows, let alone doing it quickly and efficiently.
Microsoft's OS is a tool that shapes you into more and more ridiculous shapes, while it is you and only you who shape Linux.
The ugliest side of Windows is that in 2024 it really is good for nothing except for consuming content and playing games. Both and much more can be done on Linux without considerable sacrifices.
I wish somebody would return 'the good old days' of Windows 8, when Microsoft at least badly tried to do something new and exciting.
The rumored heavy integration with AI for the upcoming Windows 12 (or whatever the name would be) might bring users some gimmicks to play with but no significant benefits or core changes, which this system desperately needs.
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By Pipe | 2024-03-23