Top 5 Desktop Operating Systems in 2020 ( by market shares)

15 min readNov 9, 2020

An operating system is the most important system software that runs on a computer and it manages computer hardware, software resources, and provides common services for computer programs. It also allows you to communicate with the computer without knowing how to speak the computer’s language. For hardware functions such as input and output and memory allocation, the operating system acts as an intermediary between programs and the computer hardware. Most of the time, there are several different computer programs running at the same time, and they all need to access your computer’s central processing unit (CPU), memory, and storage. The operating system coordinates all of this to make sure each program gets what it needs. Actually, without an operating system, a computer is useless. Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most people use the operating system that comes with their computer, but it’s possible to upgrade or even change operating systems. Now let’s discuss what are the top 5 Operating Systems use in 2020.

According to the above graph we can have following statistical data on Desktop Operating System market share worldwide in the year 2020.

No 01 : MS-Windows

Windows is the most popular and familiar operating system in the year 2020. Microsoft created the Windows operating system in the mid-1980s. From Windows 95, all the way to the Windows 10, it has been the go-to operating software that is fueling the computing systems worldwide. The most recent Windows versions are Windows 10 (released in 2015), Windows 8 (2012), Windows 7 (2009), and Windows Vista (2007). It is user-friendly, and starts up & resumes operations fast. The latest versions have more built-in security to keep you and your data safe.

Features of MS — Windows operating system

A robust User Interface which helps in easier navigation, with a start menu on the left side by listing out options and representing applications.
The Task View feature lets the users switch between multiple workspaces at once, by displaying all the open Windows.
Two separate user interfaces, one for mouse and keyboard, and the ‘Tablet Mode’ designed for touchscreens.
Multifactor authentication technology for higher security like BIN, PIN, Fingerprint recognition, etc.
Automatically compress system files to reduce the storage footprint.

Advantages of windows operating system

Support for all hardware: As windows OS is used by 95% of users so most of the hardware vendors make drivers for windows.
Ease of use: All versions of Microsoft Windows have something common in it which makes users easy to shift from one version to another. Windows 7 users have no difficulty in migrating to Windows 10 because most of the features of Windows 10 are the same as windows 7. The user interface of windows is also easy to use than UNIX and MAC.
Software support: Windows platform is best suited for game and software developers. Windows have large number audience so developers prefer to make utilities, games and software for windows OS.
Plug and play feature: Most hardware can be detected automatically by plug and play feature. You do not need to manually install the hardware but it is ready to use when attached e.g. webcam, keyboard, mouse, mobile device etc.
Desktop and touch screen: Windows 10 is made for both touch screen devices and desktop computers. The user interface of Windows 10 is made in such a way that it works better for any type of windows device.

Disadvantages of Windows operating system

Virus attacks: Windows have a high amount of hacker attacks. The hackers can easily break windows security.
Most of the software is paid: Most windows programs are paid e.g. games, graphics software (Photoshop), download manager (IDM) and other popular software are paid. You have to buy these software or pay a monthly fee to use them.
Rebooting a system: If your system becomes slow in performance then you have to reboot it. If you load many programs at the same time then your system slows down and hangs up. The only solution for this is to reboot.
High price: Windows OS has paid license and you cannot use windows OS legally free. The cost of buying a copy of windows OS is high as well.
High computer resources: If you are installing windows OS then your computer should have high ram capacity, a lot of hard drive space and good graphics card.
Technical support: Windows support is not good for most users. Only some large organizations can get good support from the windows team. Common users have to search for forums to get their problem solved.

No 02 : Mac OS ( OS X)

Mac OS (previously Mac OS X and later OS X) is a series of proprietary graphical operating systems developed and marketed by Apple Inc. since early 2001. It is the primary operating system for Apple’s Mac computers. Within the market of desktop, laptop and home computers, and by web usage, it is the second most widely used desktop OS, after Microsoft Windows. In recent years, the MAC operating systems have been completely free with the occasional free upgrade by its developers. For Apple users, there is no other option except the MAC OS. The first desktop version, Mac OS X 10.0, was released in March 2001, with its first update, 10.1, arriving later that year. After this, Apple began naming its releases after big cats, which lasted until OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion. Since OS X 10.9 Mavericks, releases have been named after locations in California.[11] Apple shortened the name to “OS X” in 2012 and then changed it to “macOS” in 2016, adopting the nomenclature that they were using for their other operating systems, iOS, watchOS, and tvOS. The latest version is macOS Catalina, which was publicly released in October 2019.

Features of Mac OS

The new dark mode gives your desktop interface a more dramatic look which is easier on the eyes.
A dynamic desktop which helps to automatically organize your desktop files by kind, date or tag.
Continuity camera that scans or photographs a document nearby your iPhone and automatically appears on your mac.
Discover handpicked apps with the MAC app store.
New iTunes that allows users to search for songs with few lyrics.
Prevent websites from tracking your Mac by making your profile more anonymous online.

Advantages of Mac OS

BootCamp : Mac OS has a built-in program called BootCamp and it allows you to install windows, Linux or any other operating system in addition to OS X. Setting up the boot camp in OS X is also very easy and switching between them is even easier now.
High Security : Lesser malware and other security issues or vulnerabilities : Mac OS based computers are lesser susceptibility to security issues and vulnerabilities. Unlike Windows, there are fewer types malware such as viruses and worms created for macOS.
Streamlined user interface without compromising functions : Both MS — Windows and Mac OS operating systems have convenient and practical graphical user interface . However, macOS has a more straightforward GUI that is similar to the uncomplicated interface of the iOS found in the iPhone and iPad.
Better and consistent operating system and hardware integration : Apple is both a software developer and a hardware designer. This dual role enables the company to optimize the macOS based on the specifications of the hardware components of a particular Mac computer. The result is a seamless integration between the operating system and the collective hardware. Furthermore, this integration due to optimization results in effective and efficient computing operations.

Disadvantages of Mac OS

Less Variety and Options : The biggest disadvantage of Mac OS is that Apple offers very limited variants of them. This means you need to spend the decided amount by them, only then you can purchase their product otherwise not. This thing restricts the buyer from purchasing Apple Mac Product.
Non-upgradable : Another major disadvantage of Mac OS powered products is that they are non-upgradable.
iMac desktop computers and MacBook laptops are very expensive : One significant disadvantage of macOS is that devices that use this operating system are very expensive.
Scarcity of game titles and absence of advanced gaming experience : The fact remains that macOS is not attractive to gamers despite the growing popularity of this operating system.
Limited number of apps available in the App Store or other sources : Similar to the scarcity of extensive list of game titles, macOS also suffers another disadvantage steaming from the limited app ecosystem.

No 03 : Unknown OS

Third largest market shares own by some unknown operating systems. They’re doing the same thing as Windows and MacOS . They are built on UNIX, OS / 2, BeOS and DOS. Here are some examples for Unknown OS.

eComStation

Based on the OS / 2 system, which IBM has been working on the development of its architecture, and did not achieve the required success, but the purpose of a large, and is a system of systems that achieve high security and stability does not require the specifications of a powerful computer to operate at full strength, The system is not free, but for a fee of up to $ 350. It is mainly designed for companies that operate on closed networks. It is used in some surveillance systems to connect the cameras, and to create a giant network that is stable and secure. , And some prefer this System to serve as a platform for multimedia, and we find some of them recognized programs such as: Firefox, OpenOffice, VLC works attic, and in the end, the system can experience free of charge before buying.

Haiku

The BeOS operating system is one of the best supported multimedia platforms that have been introduced. Many of the abbreviations that currently exist in Windows systems, MacOS first appeared in 1991 to be sold to Palm in 2001, and a period disappearing again under the name Haiku , Which is an open source operating system and you can get it free of charge. Although the system support is very poor, you can install the system. It is easy to use and does not require a computer. You can access the Internet and play multimedia, but do not expect it. more than that.

ReactOS

ReactOS is built on the Windows NT kernel and can be considered a Windows operating system, but it is different and open source, and of course it did not reach the power of Windows10 but it is similar to Windows Server 2003, and perhaps the most prominent feature is the ability to get definitions and programs that run on Windows operating system is easy, and you can run the latest games with all its power on an operating system that does not consume your computer resources. We find free and open source programs such as LibreOffice, Firefox, Opera and recommend that you test it, but by talking about security it has proved weak against attacks and viruses. For any way to connect to the Internet.

FreeDOS

It is built on the DOS platform that was launched in 1995, and some people marvel at the existence of a DOS-based operating system, but we see that most operating systems and programs can not be permanently eliminated. The best feature of this system is the extreme simplicity and strong protection. Some commands can run games and programs with ease. If your basic operating system fails, DOS is the alternative system to restore the system, or even try to install any system for the first time. Of course, the system is free and we have it on most of our computers. The FreeDOS system was introduced in 1998.

Syllable

An open-source operating system based on the Linux kernel, first introduced in 1994, and developed until 2001, and there are many versions of this system, but in general we find one for personal use, and one for networks This system is a golden opportunity for those who have a very old computer and wants to return to life Once again, the Pentium processor and 32MB memory is very sufficient for a good processing, and you will be able to browse and operate multimedia only, and the last update of this system in 2012, then the support stopped completely and will face another problem is the lack of definitions of many inputs and outputs for the computer, Some things do not work from a Basis, but in the end as long as no free system does not try it.

No 04 : Chrome OS

Chrome OS is a Gentoo Linux–based operating system designed by Google. It is derived from the free software Chromium OS and uses the Google Chrome web browser as its principal user interface. This OS primarily supports web applications. Chrome OS has an integrated media player and file manager. It supports Chrome Apps, which resemble native applications, as well as remote access to the desktop. As more Chrome OS machines have entered the market, the operating system is now seldom evaluated apart from the hardware that runs it.

Features of Chrome OS Operating system

An integrated media player that enables the users to play MP3’s, view JPEG’S and handle other multimedia files while offline.
Remote application access and virtual desktop access.
Chrome OS is designed to be compatible with all the Android applications.
With Chrome OS it is possible to run Linux applications.

Advantages of Chrome OS Operating system

Simple to use and easy to maintain: Chrome OS is simply a web browser running inside a Chromebook. It is a lightweight operating system that requires minimal hardware specifications. This means that the system boots fast and the overall computer runs smooth. Setup requirement is very minimal. Maintenance is also hassle-free unlike in heavier operating systems such as Windows. Google also updates the OS regularly and automatically. Chrome OS also has a build-in anti-virus protection. There is also no need for regular updating of several apps unlike in OS X because Chrome OS apps are stored in a cloud.
Fast and smooth software and hardware: Chrome OS requires less hardware resources unlike OS X and Windows. It does not need high-powered processors and memory and large storage space. Chromebooks also use solid-state drives for storing apps and data locally. This means that these computers also mirror the many advantages of SSD storage technology — from low power consumption to fast read and write.
Built and designed for daily productivity: Google bundles Chrome OS and Chromebook with different apps and services developed for productivity. Examples of these include office productivity apps such as Docs, Sheets, and Slides — the counterpart to Microsoft Office — and Google-branded communication apps such as Gmail and Hangouts.
Suitable for budget-conscious consumers: Google developed Chrome OS for most average computer users. It is also worth emphasizing that the minimal hardware requirements for running the OS further drive down the price of Chromebooks. Affordability is a notable advantage of Chrome OS and Chromebook.
Google and Android integration: Another advantage of Chrome OS is that it fully integrated with Google and Android. A Google Account provides a single sign-in to all the features and functionality of the OS and Chromebook.

Disadvantages of Chrome OS Operating System

Not suitable for power users: Chrome OS is severely limited by the fact that it is not capable of running resource-intensive apps or software. This turns off creative professionals such as music producers and graphic artists.
Works best with fast Internet connection: Chrome OS is designed to run offline. But the main selling point of this OS is that it is a cloud facilitator. This means that an Internet connection is needed to use the full potential of the OS and Chromebook.
Redundant if a user owns other devices: A notable disadvantage of Chrome OS is that it is not an exceptionally operating system as far as unique selling points are concerned.

No 05 : Linux

Linux is a family of open-source operating systems, based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991, by Linus Torvalds. Linux was originally developed for personal computers based on the Intel x86 architecture, but has since been ported to more platforms than any other operating system. Linux is free, and there are many different distributions — or versions — you can choose from. Popular Linux distributions include Debian, Fedora, and Ubuntu. Commercial distributions include Red Hat Enterprise Linux and SUSE Linux Enterprise Server. Desktop Linux distributions include a windowing system such as X11 or Wayland, and a desktop environment such as GNOME or KDE Plasma. Distributions intended for servers may omit graphics altogether, or include a solution stack such as LAMP. Because Linux is freely redistributable, anyone may create a distribution for any purpose.

Features of Linux Operating System

Multiuser capability: Multiple users can access the same system resources like memory, hard disk, etc. But they have to use different terminals to operate.
Multitasking: More than one function can be performed simultaneously by dividing the CPU time intelligently.
Portability: Portability doesn’t mean it is smaller in file size or can be carried in pen drives or memory cards. It means that it support different types of hardware.
Live CD/USB: Almost all Linux distros provide live CD/USB so that users can run/try it without installing it.
Graphical User Interface (X Window system): Linux is command line based OS but it can be converted to GUI based by installing packages.
Support’s customized keyboard: As it is used worldwide, hence supports different languages keyboards.
Application support: It has its own software repository from where users can download and install many applications.
File System: Provides hierarchical file system in which files and directories are arranged.

Advantages of Linux Operating System

Security : The Linux security feature is the main reason that it is the most favorable option for developers. It is not completely safe, but it is less vulnerable than others. Each application needs to authorize by the admin user. The virus is not executed until the administrator provides the access password. Linux systems do not require any antivirus program.
Free : Certainly, the biggest advantage of the Linux system is that it is free to use. We can easily download it, and there is no need to buy the license for it.
Lightweight : Linux is lightweight. The requirements for running Linux are much less than other operating systems. In Linux, the memory footprint and disk space are also lower.
Stability : Linux is more stable than other operating systems. Linux does not require to reboot the system to maintain performance levels.
Performance : Linux system provides high performance over different networks. It is capable of handling a large number of users simultaneously.
Flexibility : Linux operating system is very flexible. It can be used for desktop applications, embedded systems, and server applications too.
Software Updates : In Linux, the software updates are in user control. We can select the required updates. There a large number of system updates are available. These updates are much faster than other operating systems. So, the system updates can be installed easily without facing any issue.
Privacy : Linux always takes care of user privacy as it never takes much private data from the user. Comparatively, other operating systems ask for the user’s private data.

Disadvantages of Linux Operating System

Hardware drivers : One of the issues that most Linux users face is that some hardware drivers are not available for Linux. Hardware companies prefer to make drivers for windows or mac because they have more users as compared to Linux.
Learning curve : Getting started with windows is easy for beginners but learning Linux is difficult. You have to learn about the command-line interface and searching for new software is also little bit difficult. If you face any problem in the operating system then finding solution is problematic. There are fewer experts for Linux as compared to windows and mac.
Games : Most of the games are made for windows but not Linux. As windows platform is widely used so game developers have more interest in windows.
Many Windows Programs Will not Run in LINUX : iTunes, Microsoft Office, Internet Explorer and many other Windows programs will not run natively in Linux.