Choosing the best desktop operating system in 2025 depends on your needs—productivity, gaming, customization, or simplicity. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the four major players: Windows 11, macOS Sequoia, ChromeOS, and Ubuntu Linux.
Windows 11 (24H2 Update)
Best for: Productivity, gaming, and Copilot+ AI features
Windows 11 continues to dominate the desktop OS landscape. With a refined interface, robust gaming support, and Microsoft’s new Copilot AI, it’s ideal for users who want performance and compatibility.
Key features:
- New Snap Layouts for window management
- Enhanced security and TPM 2.0 requirement
- Tabbed File Explorer, Live Captions
- Copilot AI, Energy Saver mode, phone integration
- Wide hardware and peripheral support
- Great for gaming and productivity
- Runs on Copilot+ PCs with advanced AI (Recall, Cocreator, Click to Do)
Drawbacks:
- Start menu is less informative than Windows 10
- Less effective on touch tablets
- Requires a modern CPU and TPM chip
macOS Sequoia
Best for: Apple users, creators, and privacy-conscious professionals
Apple’s macOS remains sleek, powerful, and tightly integrated with the Apple ecosystem. Sequoia enhances continuity with iPhones and introduces Apple Intelligence, the company’s AI push.
Key features:
- iPhone mirroring on Mac
- Improved split-screen and Presenter features
- Passwords app and FaceTime upgrades
- Powerful M-series chips (M1–M3)
- Excellent built-in apps: iMovie, GarageBand, Safari
- Document-based OS with smooth multitasking
Drawbacks:
- No clipboard history
- App notarization hurdles for third-party installs
- Limited gaming support
- Runs only on Apple hardware
ChromeOS
Best for: Students, casual users, and Android ecosystem fans
ChromeOS is simple, fast, and cloud-first. It now supports Android apps, offers improved offline use, and runs on Chromebook Plus devices. New features include Google AI tools, such as Help Me Write and live transcription.
Key features:
- Instant boot-up and strong Google service integration
- Android and web app support via Google Play
- Secure auto-updates and sandboxing
- 5+ year update cycle
- Gemini AI, Magic Eraser, and video call effects
- Runs on affordable hardware
Drawbacks:
- Confusing dual app stores (Chrome Web Store + Google Play)
- Limited access to high-end apps like Photoshop
- Gaming and hardware peripheral support still maturing
Ubuntu 24.10 (Oracular Oriole)
Best for: Developers, privacy advocates, and open-source enthusiasts
Ubuntu is a free, open-source OS based on Linux. It’s highly customizable and now more polished than ever with its Gnome desktop environment and Linux kernel 6.11.
Key features:
- Runs on nearly any PC or Mac
- No need for user accounts or cloud lock-in
- App Center for software installs
- Touch support (partial) and low system requirements
- Secure, with frequent updates and community support
- Customizable UI with variants like Kubuntu, Lubuntu, etc.
Drawbacks:
- Requires some technical knowledge
- Fewer compatible peripherals
- Limited professional software and AAA gaming support
- Occasional troubleshooting through terminal commands
The choice of the best desktop operating system in 2025 ultimately depends on what you value most. If you’re after top-tier performance, widespread software compatibility, and cutting-edge AI tools, Windows 11 remains the industry standard. For seamless integration with Apple devices, premium hardware, and elegant design, macOS Sequoia is hard to beat.
If your priority is simplicity, speed, and tight alignment with Google services, ChromeOS offers an excellent cloud-first experience—especially on budget-friendly devices. Meanwhile, Ubuntu gives tech-savvy users unmatched freedom, flexibility, and security, without tying them to any tech giant.
Each OS has its strengths and trade-offs. Rather than asking which is best overall, ask: Which is best for you? Your workflow, ecosystem preferences, and level of tech comfort will point you to the right choice.
In the age of AI-powered features, cross-device syncing, and privacy concerns, making an informed decision is more important than ever. Whichever OS you choose, make sure it aligns with your goals—not just your habits.
READ: Huawei Unveils HarmonyOS Next: A New Era in Operating Systems
