With the help of technology, it has become so much easier for students to perform all their study tasks. However, before buying any device, it is essential to determine which operating system is worth installing. In this article, we will guide you on how to choose the right OS and examine these software solutions in detail to determine their pros, cons, and must-have tools for students.
Common Operating Systems
Most devices run a pre-installed OS. Though, in some cases, you can find a computer without an OS if you want to install the one to your liking. But before installing any operating system, you should determine which one can make your education smooth and easy. Otherwise, it will add more trouble.
The majority of the time students spend on college assignments like writing essays or coursework. Hence, most people will not make enough time to research operating systems suitable for studies. However, you can delegate writing tasks to a professional essay writer when needed. Experienced specialists can deliver splendid and cheap services on short notice!
The problem is that different OSs perform various functionalities, compatibilities, and third-party integrations. Also, some software programs can only be available for one OS, whether it’s Windows or macOS. In general, there are four common operating systems:
- ChromeOS
- Windows
- Unix
- macOS
Examine Memory Management
Memory management is one of the most important things you need to consider when choosing an OS. The most common tasks students perform with the help of a laptop, like writing papers, taking notes, researching, doing presentations, and so on, require a lot of space. Hence, it’s essential to choose software that properly manages memory. The best option is when the size of the process isn’t more than 10 Mb.
Check Robustness and Stability
The second crucial feature to pay attention to is robustness and stability. For instance, you might come across some OS that will not perform properly unless you reboot your laptop a few times daily. Some can automatically reboot the device without even asking for permission, which is not cool when you are in the middle of some important work.
You can do your own research on the internet or ask for recommendations from people who have used various OSs to determine which OS meets your expectations and needs. It will enable you to study without any hurdles.
Consider Support and Cost
Another vital feature you need to take into account when choosing an operating system is cost and support. You can select between free or paid ones. The reason to choose the paid OS is that it often comes with support from the manufacturer. It means that whenever any technical problem occurs, you will have the backup of the developers.
As for the free OS, they may not have such privileges, but they are pretty cheap and might even end up with better support than the paid options.
Windows
For good reasons, Windows is considered the most reliable, powerful, versatile, and flexible OS. First, you can install it on almost any device. Secondly, this OS has a wide range of devices for all budgets. Finally, It has a pre-installed Microsoft Office package if you are running Windows 11.
Microsoft Office allows you to perform any tasks. Another cool feature of Windows is that it works with a wide range of third-party software. This is a list of programs you can use in your studies that work on this OS:
- CAD solutions
- Complex calculation software
- Video-editing programs
- 3D modeling tools
- Adobe Suite
macOS
Unlike Windows, macOS is available only for Apple devices. In this case, your choice of a laptop will be limited, and the prices for devices will be higher. Overall, it is solid, user-friendly, comfortable, and powerful software.
If you need to work with professional solutions like CAD or Adobe Suite, it will not be possible since macOS doesn’t integrate well with a lot of third-party applications. However, Apple has its own apps with similar functionalities. The range of tools is pretty limited in comparison with the Windows library. In addition, most apps and solutions are not free.
Chrome OS
The most attractive thing about Chrome OS is that it comes mainly with Chromebooks. These devices are pretty budget-friendly and student-oriented. In addition, if you have ever used a Chrome browser and are familiar with its interface, the transition to Chrome OS will be much easier. In terms of performance, interface, and architecture Chrome OS is similar to Android.
By the way, you can customize a taskbar, which is a great advantage. This OS is mostly based on browser performance and internet capabilities. The huge advantage of Chrome OS for students is that they can streamline processes, collaborate and cooperate with other people, and surf the internet effectively.
However, there are also some downsides of Chrome OS:
- The functionality and computing power are lower in comparison with previous systems
- A limited number of third-party applications
- Most features and tools are only available when you have an internet connection
- Performance is not as great as Windows or macOS
Linux
This OS is considered to be the most popular among Unix systems. Its coolest feature is that it can be installed on any device. In addition, Linux is used for cars and home appliances. The most significant benefit of this OS is that it is free of charge. However, in most cases, it is not pre-installed on laptops.
Running Linux is a great opportunity for students on a low budget since they don’t need to pay for any licenses. Also, it works with many third-party tools, but the range of apps is not as big as in Windows.
Linux has one single minor disadvantage: it’s not beginner-friendly. So if you have never worked with the Unix system before, you might have struggles in the beginning. Taking full advantage of Linux takes some learning curve and adjusting. Among other pros, the most significant one is that it is fast and protected from malware. Typical viruses developed for the usual OS will not damage Linux.
To Sum It Up
We hope this article was useful, and now you can determine by yourself which OS is worth trying. When you find a stable solution, your academic performance will improve, and you will enjoy the learning process more.