A clear, side-by-side look at how Linux and Windows really compare on cost, security, speed, privacy and software — and the easiest way to try Linux for yourself.
The biggest practical differences between the two operating systems.
| Linux (e.g. Linux Lite) | Windows | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free forever | Paid licence |
| Old hardware | Runs fast on 10+ year-old PCs | Newer versions demand modern hardware |
| Security | Secure by default, low malware exposure | Frequent malware target |
| Privacy | No telemetry or forced accounts | Extensive telemetry, account push |
| Updates | Free, fast, non-intrusive | Large, sometimes forced updates |
| Software | Huge free app library included | Widest commercial software support |
| Customization | Almost unlimited | Limited |
| Gaming | Great and improving (Steam/Proton) | Best out-of-the-box support |
Free to use and light enough to keep an aging PC fast and secure for years — no new hardware required.
No telemetry, no forced accounts, and a much smaller malware target — with free security updates.
Some AAA games and specialist professional software still run best on Windows out of the box.
Linux Lite is designed for people switching from Windows. It looks familiar, includes everything you need on the first boot, and runs beautifully on older machines. You can even try it live from a USB stick without changing anything on your current system. If you're moving off an unsupported version of Windows, see our Windows 10 end-of-life guide.
Try Linux Lite free — no risk, no cost, and no need to touch your current setup until you're ready.