7 Linux Features I Miss Every Time I Boot into Windows 11

Linux vs. Windows: 7 Reasons Why I Prefer the Free Option

Linux distributions offer a clean, distraction-free computing experience. My Garuda Linux setup, for example, presents only installed applications in the application menu—no ads or sponsored content, just my tools, arranged as I prefer. This ad-free interface enhances focus and provides a greater sense of control. Ironically, despite paying for Windows, the free Linux option feels more respectful, avoiding constant sales pitches.

1. Unparalleled Taskbar Control:

Windows 11's taskbar customization is severely limited compared to Windows 10. The inability to reposition the taskbar to the sides is a frustrating drawback for ultrawide monitor users.

Linux, however, provides complete freedom. I can place the taskbar anywhere (top, bottom, left, or right), and even use multiple panels with KDE Plasma, each serving different functions. My setup uses a top panel for system information and a bottom panel as a dock. I also control the taskbar's size, transparency, behavior, and contents. Windows 11 offers similar control, but only through complex workarounds.

2. Advanced Virtual Desktop Management:

Windows 11's virtual desktops have improved, but still lag behind Linux.

GNOME's Activities Overview provides a central view of all open windows across virtual desktops (Workspaces), allowing easy app movement and launching onto specific desktops. KDE Plasma offers a grid layout for virtual desktops, enabling horizontal and vertical arrangement for better task categorization. Scrolling or using a Pager widget provides smooth transitions. This superior organization makes task switching far more intuitive than in Windows 11.

3. KDE Activities: Multitasking Enhanced:

KDE Activities are a powerful workflow management tool, far exceeding Windows' capabilities. Each Activity can have its own widgets, wallpapers, panel configurations, and default applications. I use separate Activities for research, writing, and team communication, maximizing focus and minimizing distractions. Switching Activities is seamless, unlike the cumbersome process of switching user accounts in Windows 11 to achieve a similar effect.

4. Convenient Desktop and Panel Widgets:

Widgets are invaluable for quick access to information. Windows 11's widgets are hidden within a separate panel, limiting their usefulness. Linux, especially KDE Plasma, allows placing widgets directly on the desktop or embedding them in panels. I use widgets for my to-do list, calendar, Downloads, system resources, weather, clipboard manager, and virtual desktop switching—all readily visible, saving countless clicks. While Rainmeter provides similar functionality for Windows, it's an added layer of complexity.

5. Lower Resource Consumption:

Windows 11 demands significant system resources. My experience shows that a smooth Windows experience requires at least a quad-core CPU, 16GB RAM, and an SSD. Linux distros, however, run smoothly on much less powerful hardware. I've successfully used Ubuntu on an HDD with a dual-core CPU and 8GB RAM. Distributions like Lubuntu or Linux Mint Xfce can revitalize systems that Windows 11 would reject. Linux also requires less storage space; a full-featured desktop can comfortably fit in 20GB, compared to Windows 11's substantially larger footprint.

6. Superior Terminal Experience:

While not essential for all users, the Linux terminal is far more powerful and user-friendly than its Windows counterpart. Output is clearer, and chaining commands together significantly boosts productivity. The Linux terminal is designed for everyday use, unlike the Windows terminal, primarily intended for troubleshooting.

7. Dual Booting for Necessary Windows Apps:

While I prefer Linux for its features, I still dual-boot with Windows 11 to access certain professional applications (Rize, Asana, Notion Calendar). However, many of these apps are accessible as web apps on Linux, further reducing my reliance on Windows.

In conclusion, while not perfect, Linux's superior features and respect for user experience make it my preferred operating system, despite the need to maintain a Windows installation for specific applications.

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