I am trying to make a decision on computer operating systems. I am writing this on Sandbox, my Linux computer and I am using LibreOffice Writer to compose this post. This system and combination works perfectly for this purpose and many other uses. The best part being it is totally free.
The only real draw back is there is very little high powered commercial software applications written for Linux. This is because of it’s very small market share. The free software available is actually very good for a great variety of computer uses. An example is what I am writing at this moment.
The problem for me is that I have some very specific software that hasn’t been and probably never will be ported to Linux. This is my Rhinoceros 3D graphic drawing and CAD software and also my MACH3 and soon MACH4 CNC software. I am also in love with most of my Adobe software. Throw in Vectric Software and I am ever farther from a totally useful machine with Linux.
I run Linux because I can and will highly recommend it to anyone who needs a fairly plain vanilla free system. If they can implement any of the thousands of very specialized free Linux programs they are home free. Some of those programs are a bit out of step with typical mass marketed plug and play software but usually work very well.
I am forced to the conclusion that although I have long praised the virtues of Linux, I have a more practical need to have a computer that runs in the Microsoft world.
What really sucked was the Windows 8.o when it came out. I tried it for about 3 months. However, I see Windows 7 is still a strong runner for everyone with classic computer hardware. I have no issues with Win 7. I run Win 7 here and also at my work.
But Windows 8.1 fixed some of the stupidity of Windows 8.0 which I totally didn’t like, and I am hearing rumbles that OS 9.0 will get closer to what conventional uses expect while still keeping the new wave interfaces. The reality is the new is here to stay.
I think I would run 8.1 on Sandbox if I had it. However, I will wait and look for what win 9 will bring to the party. If a free trail comes out (like win 8 had) I will give it a shot. Release of a trial beta could only be a month or so away.