Why I Use Linux

Linux is my daily driver, my workspace, and my playground. I use it not because of the common talking points you hear from new Linux users—security, stability, or reliability—but for reasons that are much more personal and experience-driven. While Linux can be all those things, it's not inherently so, and it requires effort and understanding to reach that level. Here’s why I truly use Linux.

1. Because Microsoft Keeps Breaking Windows

I’ve used Windows extensively over the years, I know Windows inside and out—I can make it do anything I want. But Microsoft itself is one of the biggest reasons I prefer Linux.

Windows has become an operating system riddled with advertisements, bloatware, and intrusive features like built-in Copilot, forced Edge suggestions, and countless notifications pushing services I don’t want. While I do find some amusement in stripping all that junk out, at the end of the day, I need an operating system that just works without constantly getting in my way. Linux provides that stability for me—not in the “it never crashes” way, but in the “my workflow is mine alone, and it won’t change unless I change it” way.

2. The Window Management and Workflow Feel Incredible

The experience of using Linux—especially with a well-configured tiling window manager—feels smoother, more precise, and more efficient than anything Windows or macOS offers. Windows' window management is clunky, and while macOS is polished, its full-screen and split-screen modes leave much to be desired.

With Linux, I have total control over how my system behaves. Whether I’m using Hyprland, DWM, BSPWM, or i3, I can tailor my workspace exactly to my needs. The ability to customize everything down to the pixel makes Linux feel uniquely mine. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about speed, efficiency, and creating an environment where I can work seamlessly.

3. The Era of Discovery Never Ends

There was a time when computing felt like an adventure. You could tinker, experiment, and truly make a system your own. Over the years, Windows and macOS have become increasingly locked down, prioritizing user-friendliness over flexibility. Linux, however, keeps that sense of discovery alive.

With Linux, I can customize everything. If something doesn’t work the way I want, I can fix it. There’s no end to what I can learn, tweak, and improve. That freedom and ability to explore keep me engaged in a way that no other operating system does.

The Reality of Linux: It’s Not for Everyone

While I love Linux, I won’t sugarcoat its drawbacks. It’s not inherently secure, stable, or compatible with everything out of the box. Many Linux newcomers run into issues by blindly copy-pasting commands, leading to broken systems. Hardware compatibility can be hit or miss, and some professional-grade software simply doesn’t work well on Linux.

That’s why I still use Windows and macOS when necessary. Some hardware works better with Windows. Some creative software—like Affinity Photo or Photoshop—runs best on macOS. But despite these limitations, Linux remains my primary system because it offers the best overall experience for me.

Conclusion

I don’t use Linux because it’s perfect. I use it because it gives me control, efficiency, and an ever-evolving learning experience that no other operating system provides. Windows frustrates me with its constant interference. macOS, while reliable, feels restrictive and uninspiring. Linux, on the other hand, is where I feel the most productive, creative, and in control of my computing experience. That’s why I use Linux—and why I love it.