The operating system is the heart of any computer, and for most of us, Windows has been the constant beat of that heart for decades.
However, in the vast world of technology, there are always alternatives waiting to be discovered. Have you ever considered exploring operating systems that don’t cost a dime? Would you like to know options that offer solid performance and a different computing experience? Today we are going to dive into the exciting realm of best free alternatives to windows.
- Linux: The Jewel of Free Operating SystemsWhen it comes to free operating systems, Linux shines with its own light. It is an open source system that has captivated millions of users around the world. Its greatest strength lies in its versatilitysince there are numerous distributions or “distros” of Linux, each designed to meet specific needs. distros best known include Ubuntuan excellent choice for beginners, and Linux Mint, a functional alternative. The Linux community is incredibly active, which means you can find online support for virtually any question or problem you may encounter. In short, Linux stands out as the leading free alternative to Windows.
- Chromium OS: The Lightness of the CloudAre you looking for a lightweight operating system with a focus on Cloud Computing? So Chromium OS could be your ideal choice. This operating system is the basis of ChromeOS from Google and can be downloaded for free. It is especially suitable for older computers. Chromium OS is perfect for web browsing, social networking, and word processing. However, it is not that adept at playing media and editing media content. If you want a user-friendly, web-centric experience, Chromium OS is a great free option for PC.
- FreeBSD: The Free Operating System that is not LinuxOften it is thought that FreeBSD is just another Linux distro, but in reality, it’s the modern, open source version of Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD). Although it shares Unix-like roots with Linux, FreeBSD has its own charm. If you are looking for a reliable operating system for both servers and desktops, FreeBSD is an excellent choice. Although it does not include a desktop environment by default, you can install GNOME, WHERE o XFCE according to your preferences. In addition, FreeBSD has gained recognition in terms of security and privacy, thanks to improvements developed by the project. TrustedBSDbacked by companies like McAfee and Google.
- FreeDOS: Nostalgia Becomes an Operating SystemDo you miss the simplicity of the computer age of the 80s and 90s? FreeDOS it can be your ticket back in time. Unlike modern operating systems that focus on multitasking, FreeDOS is based on the old MS-DOS.This free operating system is perfect for those who want to revive old games and applications. You can also connect to the network and download additional software. Whether you have a modern computer or a relic of bygone years, FreeDOS offers a retro experience that will make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time.
- illumos: A Unix-Based World of PossibilitiesIf you want a free Unix-based alternative, let us know could be what you are looking for. It is based on OpenSolaran operating system that Oracle abandoned in 2009. Like the Linux kernel, the illumos kernel is found in various forks of OpenSolaris. What makes illumos special is that it has several distributions available. OpenIndiana is one of the most popular. This free operating system offers a wide range of applications and solid performance.
- ReactOS: The Free Windows CloneIf Linux and Unix-based alternatives are unfamiliar or don’t meet your needs, ReactOS it’s an intriguing choice. Released in 1996 as a clone project of Windows 95ReactOS aims to allow you to replace Windows without end users knowing the difference. ReactOS has more than 9 million lines of code and it is open source. Although it is still in alpha phase, it is already capable of running some applications, such as Adobe Reader. It is light, it requires only 500MB of hard disk space and 96MB of RAM to function. While not all Windows apps will work on ReactOS, it’s an interesting option for those looking for a free alternative to Windows.
- Haiku: The Operating System in Continuous DevelopmentHaiku is a free and open source operating system project that has been in constant development since its release in 2001. Although less well known than some of the other operating systems mentioned, Haiku has its own set of unique features. In addition to supporting modern applications, Haiku can also run many of the applications of the old operating system. BeOSas VLC Media Player y Quake. If you’re looking for an alternative to Windows that mixes the old and the new, Haiku is a great option.
- MorphOS: An Alternative World for Old Macshttps://youtu.be/LQxJgw0GhJo
MorphOS It is an operating system in the style of Amigadesigned for home computers from the 1980s and 1990s. If you have an older Mac with a processor PowerPCMorphOS could be the perfect alternative for you. Although it is unlikely that you will find a PC with a PowerPC processor, if your Mac experience ended with the adoption of CPUs x86, you may want to explore MorphOS as an alternative to Windows. Dust off that old iMac, Mac Mini, or Power Mac and give MorphOS a try.
- AROS: The Spirit of Amiga on your PChttps://youtu.be/Es6NhuOOUEo
WAIT is another free operating system with a similar lineage to MorphOSbut it is designed for systems x86. This means that you should be able to run it on your PC or laptop. AROS turns your computer into a kind of modern Amiga, capable of running old and new software. Although you won’t be able to read old Amiga discs on a modern PC, AROS is still an interesting alternative to Windows. you can try the version Live CD from AROS to get an idea of this free operating system for PC.
- MenuetOS: A Whole World on a Floppy Diskhttps://youtu.be/c_nUmab86AQ
MinuetOS It is a free operating system available for computer hardware. 32 bits y 64 bitsand you can install it from a single floppy disk of 1.4MB! It comes with a full desktop environment, browser, media player, and spreadsheet editor pre-installed. Surprisingly, it is built on language Assembly and offers support for webcams USB and resolutions up to 1920×1080 con 16 million colors. It also has recognizable games, an email client and servers. FTP y HTTP. If you don’t have a floppy drive, you can also boot MenutOS from CD o USB.
- PrimeOS: Free Android for your PChttps://youtu.be/3rJGLi66amgGoogle has been working on the convergence of its operating systems, and Android has become increasingly useful as a desktop operating system thanks to the support of mouse and keyboard. Being the most widely used operating system in the world after Windows, Android has a large number of applications available.
PrimeOS it offers an Android gaming platform on PC, making it a great free alternative to Windows for game lovers. It is also suitable for productivity tasks and media editing.
Various versions of Android are available for desktop PCs and laptops. Consider PrimeOS a free option for your next computing adventure.
- RISC OS: An Alternative World for ARM ProcessorsFor processor-based computers ARMas the Raspberry Pi o BeagleBoardexist RISKS. Although basic in some aspects, RISC OS offers a functional user experience with a variety of applications, from word processors to image editors. If you need a free alternative to Windows for your ARM-based project, RISC OS could be the perfect choice. . It is developed by RISCOS Ltd and the RISC OS Open Community.
In short, these free alternatives to Windows offer a variety of approaches and features that can be tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a robust operating system, a nostalgic trip back to the age of retro computers, or a modern user experience, these options have something to offer. The choice is yours, so go ahead and explore the exciting world of free operating systems!
