When it comes to computer operating systems, there’s no doubt that Microsoft Windows is definitely the most popular choice. According to StatCounter in May 2018, 81.73% of all computer users were running some version of Windows. Yes, over 80% of computer users. Clearly, they are doing something right. But what is it exactly about Windows that attracts so many users? Let’s look at some factors.
Better Applications
Applications that are available for Windows tend to have exceptional features when compared to other platforms. This is not to say that Windows has all the best software because there are indeed some very well-developed programs built for other platforms. But when we look at the bigger picture, we find that Windows-based applications do seem to come out on top when compared to its counterparts.
One example of this is Microsoft Office. Even though it is available for both Windows and Mac users, the experience of the Windows version far exceeds the Mac version. Given Microsoft Office’s prevalence in the productivity sector, this alone would be enough reason for an organization to choose Windows above other operating systems.
Over the past year Windows has remained the OS of choice in the United States
Popularity
The usage statistics speak for themselves regarding how popular Windows is. With Windows being more familiar to people than any other operating system, it makes sense for organizations to choose the option that will require less training and that users would be more comfortable with using. Almost every computer user has used Windows at some point but the opposite is not necessarily true.
It also makes collaboration and compatibility with other organizations run smoother. In the marketplace, Windows is the dominant operating system. If you want your business to remain compatible with your partners and stakeholders, you should be on the same platform too. Partnerships and business deals don’t need the annoying stress of incompatible files and mismatched functionality.
More Software
Without a doubt, Windows has the biggest selection of software available for its platform than any other operating system. The benefit of this is that users get to choose from a wider variety of options. This creates healthy “competition” for users, where software developers really have to push boundaries to produce the best program possible. Anything less than the best will result in users picking the next program on the list. This alone does wonders in motivating software developers to deliver excellent solutions that meet users’ needs.
In the case of less popular operating systems, there are less software options available for users. And this limited choice means that users will just have to pick the closest working option. When the element of competitive software development is absent, it can make developers lazy. Because users will be forced to use a lower-quality product simply because there is no better option.
| Windows 10 | Home | Pro | Enterprise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Product Image | |||
| Max RAM | 4GB / 128GB | 4GB / 2TB | 4GB / 2TB |
| Avliability | OEM/Retail | OEM/Retail/Volume Licensing | Volumelicensing |
| Device Encryption |  | | |
| Cortana | | | |
| Microsoft Edge | | | |
| Multiple Languages | | | |
| Mobile Device Management | | | |
| Virtual Desktops | | | |
| Windows Hello | | | |
| Windows Spotlight | | | |
| Remote Desktop | | | |
| Hyper-V | | | |
| BitLocker | | | |
| Conditional Access | | | |
| CBB (Defer updates) | | | |
| Domain Join | | | |
| Enterprise Data Protection | | | |
| Windows Analytics | | | |
| Windows Information Protection | | | |
| AppLocker | | ||
| Credential Guard | | ||
| DirectAccess | | ||
| Microsoft App-V | | ||
| MDOP | | ||
| Windows To Go | | ||
| Price | $99.99 | $119.99 | $319.99 |
Many features are included in various versions of Windows OS that are not supported by others or are difficult to achieve with out native compatibility
Cost
Cost is a critical factor when choosing an operating system. However, it is not as simple as comparing price tags. Factors like having to retrain users, compatible hardware and feature parity contribute to the final bill. Propriety developers, like Apple, usually charge a lot for a device that performs only slightly better than a Windows device that costs half the price. Or consider the cost of buying enough software to perform all the tasks that one Windows-based program can do already. A dollar for dollar comparison usually leaves Windows-based computers with the win.
In all honesty, there is a case that can be made for non-Windows operating systems. They certainly have their merits. But Windows is clearly the alpha when you add up all the points. If you are trying to decide which option would best suit your needs and wallet, try talking to a software specialist like MyChoiceSoftware.
