Best alternatives to Windows 10 before support ends
There are only a few months left until Microsoft ends support for Windows 10, so many users will have to choose another operating system for their computer. Here are several options that I recommend.
Windows 10 without support
Windows 10 support will end on October 14, 2025, so the idea of upgrading to another system is the best one you could take now, before your computer becomes a target for cybercriminals.
Changing systems is not easy, even more so if you have become accustomed to the Windows 10 environment, but there are very accessible options for all tastes, most of them totally free and with alternatives to Microsoft apps.
These are some operating systems that you can install if you come from Windows 10:
ChromeOS Flex
ChromeOS 10
This alternative created by Google may be the best if you are looking to change the Microsoft operating system for a lighter one for a computer that is several years old, at least with 4 gigabytes of RAM and 16 gigabytes of storage.
On Google devices, Chromebooks, ChromeOS comes installed by default, although if you need it for others, you will have to install it using a USB with 8 gigabytes of free space or more.
Now, there are big differences with ChromeOS, such as the inability to access Android applications or Google Play, perhaps the most attractive advantage of this system.
PrimeOS
Although it is quite unknown, PrimeOS is the best if you want a PC operating system on which you can launch Android video games, since it is based on it and allows instant connection with all mobile phones.
It is the system that comes installed by default on Primebook computers, devices based in India.
It has numerous educational tools from the Android environment, a very complete list of applications and is one of the best on this list if you use your PC a lot with your mobile.
Ubuntu
Since its inception, Ubuntu has been one of the most friendly Linux distributions for users who are less experienced with this operating system, so it would be the best option if you want to change Microsoft's for this open source one.
Additionally, before installation you can test it in case something doesn't convince you. In any case, in Ubuntu you will find numerous alternatives to the Microsoft services that can be found in Windows 11.
For the desktop version you will have up to 5 years of maintenance and security updates.
ReactOS
This operating system is unique in its name, thanks to the fact that it is free open source software, but it allows access to all the software and drivers of Windows, with an environment really similar to this one.
As a major advantage over Windows, ReactOS is completely free and does not track any personal data, as the developers themselves confirm on their official website and in the code itself.
Personally, I think it is the best option on the list if you want the best of Windows, but with these advantages over Microsoft.
Linux Mint
This popular operating system has been around for almost 20 years, thanks to offering a very attractive environment, both for new users and for those more familiar with Linux distributions.
Inside, you will find applications very similar to those of Windows, but with LibreOffice as the protagonist, which offers practically the same, but open source.
Additionally, it allows access to video games from libraries such as Steam, for example, although it is not one of the best Linux distros for playing at the highest level.
Garuda
If you want one of the best Linux distros for playing video games outside of Windows, Garuda Linux is a great option, with the option of choosing Garuda Dr460nized, which has numerous emulators and gaming services inside.
The minimum requirements for your computer to be able to install this operating system are 30 gigabytes of disk space, 4 gigabytes of RAM, a video card with OpenGL 3.3 or higher, and a 64-bit system.
This distro has several applications available to access your library of Epic Games, Stema, GOG, Amazon, and others, and is one of the best for enjoying console games from yesteryear.
MacOS
Apple humiliates Windows 11: macOS Sequoia can run on just 1GB of RAM
Apple's desktop operating system, macOS may be the best option if you're looking for something completely geared toward its ecosystem, though you'll also need to shell out more money to access it, usually.
It's a very closed system, with tools available by default, such as ChatGPT integration in Siri and Writing Tools, plus Safari as its default browser
finished.
Windows 11
New Copilot for Windows 11
Microsoft
If you don't want to complicate your life, the logical continuation for Windows 10 is its most recent version, Windows 11.
If you are looking for a new computer with this system, it is a great alternative, since you will have practically no problems, beyond those related to some update, as happened with those of October and November 2024.
If what you are thinking about is changing your operating system on a computer or laptop that is several years old, Windows 11 may not be the best alternative, since it usually offers excessive consumption in CPU and RAM, which will cause slowness in your PC.