So, this article is all about the differences between Ubuntu and Windows. There are three main Operating Systems out in the wild and these are two of the three powerhouse operating systems. MacOS being the other one.
Most developers prefer Ubuntu, or other Linux-based operating systems because Ubuntu has some useful unique features. If you are a developer working on Windows who has only just heard about Ubuntu and want to give it a shot, you should really read on and check out this list of the key differences between Ubuntu Vs Windows to help you decide.
Table of contents:
- Introduction
- Command Prompt or Terminal
- Hardware Support
- Security and Data Privacy
- Suggested Reading
- Application Support
- Customisation
- Video Explanation of Windows vs Ubuntu
Ubuntu vs Windows Differences Command Prompt or Terminal
In my opinion, this is one of the major advantages Ubuntu has over Windows, especially if you are a developer.
Ubuntu’s terminal is such a powerful tool compared to Command Prompt of Windows that after using it, you will have a hard time going back to Windows.
If you are an end user who just wants to use their computer as a multimedia tool and for note taking, you probably won’t use the terminal at all.
However, if you are a developer, Ubuntu’s terminal provides great advantages like ssh, root access and fast debugging or fast fixes (if you ever tinker with the system files) which makes the terminal as useful as the desktop environment. Although, Command Prompt offers similar kinds of features, there are far more restrictions on what a user can do compared to Ubuntu.
If you are a developer that uses windows, you’ll probably want to install third party software to perform tasks that Ubuntu’s terminal can do out of the box.
Windows Wins The Hardware Support Battle
This is where Windows takes the advantage over Ubuntu.
Windows, because of its popularity, supports a huge variety of hardware such as Bluetooth headphones, keyboards, and more. Windows comes with pre-installed drivers that allows the users to connect any of their devices effortlessly. If you don’t already have the drives Windows will go off and find them.
Ubuntu lacks that wide variety of drivers pre-installed. So, you either have to find the drivers to install by yourself, or you have to find hardware that’s compatible with Ubuntu, which makes Ubuntu slightly annoying during the setup process.
Overall Security and Data Privacy
According to Wikipedia, only 2% of the computers have Linux installed, compared to 78% for Windows. This suggests that you are more likely to be hit with a virus if you are running Windows as your Operating System.
Many viruses are developed specifically for Windows. It’s a numbers game. Simply put there are more people using Windows. The potential for hackers to break into a system is higher when you consider the number of installs.
In my opinion, this makes Ubuntu and other Linux based operating systems slightly more secure compared to Windows (as long as you keep them up yo date). We could also argue that the open-source nature of Ubuntu makes it more secure to malware and hacking because it is always improved thanks to a community dedicated to improving the OS.
So if we look at the security differences of Windows vs Ubuntu, we could say Ubuntu takes the victory.
Suggested Reading
Speaking of security, we’ve detailed some really important steps to secure your WordPress installation against potential hackers. Check the article out.
Application Support
This one is also a make or break when decision when considering the differences between Ubuntu and Windows.
When it comes to applications and software available for each operating system, Windows is so far ahead of Ubuntu it’s almost laughable. Please note, that I am considering all applications that includes games, Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, and programming IDE’s and text editors in this comment!
If your productivity tasks mostly include working with Microsoft Office and Photoshop, it is better for you to stick with Windows. Ubuntu does not support these apps.
On the other hand, for programming and development, Ubuntu provides more flexibility in terms of software. So, depending on what software you usually use, either OS has an advantage over the other.
Ubuntu Customisation – Windows is restricted
In terms of customisation, Ubuntu is by far ahead of Windows. Thanks to its open source nature, you can always tinker with the source code, add or remove parts and make it your own
Windows offers a very strict user experience. Your desktop is pre-determined for you and you cannot change how it looks unless you use third-party applications. Windows doesn’t even let you access them.
Ubuntu however, is the complete opposite, you can find hundreds or thousands of additional source code files on web communities that allows you to customise your Ubuntu experience. From how the icon looks, to shell customisation you have endless options. Therefore, if you prioritise customisation, Ubuntu is for you.
The only real options for Windows Customisation is to write your own applications, as long as you know how to code!
These are the top 5 differences between Ubuntu and Windows. Each has advantages over the other and both offer great OS experience.
Video Explanation of Ubuntu Vs Windows
Video Credit: YouTube – WP Website Guide
Ubuntu vs Windows F.A.Q
Ubuntu is a open-source Linux operating system based on Debian. Ubuntu is available in three editions: Desktop, Server, and Core. All three can run on the computer, or in a virtual machine.
Windows is the most popular OS for desktops and laptop computers.
Windows 10 is around £99.00 from the Microsoft Store.
Ubuntu is a free and open source OS.
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