Why Windows users are switching to Linux
- A faster, more efficient computing experience.
- More design freedom than Windows.
- The current state of gaming on Linux in 2025.
How many people in Belgium use Linux?
As of April 2025, Linux makes up about 2.8% of the desktop OS market in Belgium. According to StatCounter, around 327,600 people are using Linux across the country. View StatCounter data opens in a new tab
The operating system is very praised among its core audience: tech enthusiasts, developers, and institutions that care about privacy, transparency, and open-source software.
Tired of ads, bloat, and forced updates?
If you feel like your PC is constantly trying to upsell you, you’re not alone. More and more users are turning to Linux, not just as an alternative, but as a lifestyle upgrade.
Using Linux feels like my PC finally stops bothering me and just does what I ask.
— Linux User
Fans love that Linux skips the forced features, data collection, and “please buy Office 365” pop-ups that constantly interrupt your workflow.
Linux has the potential to look far more stylish than Windows
- Themes range from minimalism to absolute chaos on the screen.
- Want a sleek Mac-like interface? You can set that up.
- What if it looked like it came straight out of your favorite show? Also doable.
There’s a whole ‘design my desktop’ cult behind it
These community screenshots show just how far you can take things. Some setups are minimalist masterpieces, others look like sci-fi control panels. Endless possibilities.
Check out the subreddit r/unixporn opens in a new tab (No worries, it’s safe for work).
Why is Linux so appealing right now?
It’s free. You can download, install, and update a full-featured operating system without spending a cent. No licenses, no activation keys, no hidden fees.
You’re not locked in. There’s no Microsoft account required, no background telemetry you can’t disable, no unwanted pre-installs. Just you, your machine, and whatever tools you choose to run.
Popular creators are starting a “switch to Linux” trend
When YouTube stars like PewDiePie or SomeOrdinaryGamers mention switching to Linux, it sends a strong signal. These are channels pulling in millions of views, that kind of exposure does more than any forum thread ever could. It reframes Linux as approachable, not just powerful.
Even better, tutorials are everywhere. YouTube, Reddit, and Discord groups are packed with first-timer guides. Dual-boot setups and gaming-focused distributions or “distros” make the transition easier than ever.
Popular Linux distros and what they’re best for
Here are some of the most popular Linux distributions in 2025, along with what makes each one stand out:
| Distro | Main use case & features |
|---|---|
| Linux Mint | Windows-like layout, stable and lightweight for everyday use |
| Ubuntu | General use, easy for beginners, large support community, regular updates |
| CachyOS | Performance-focused, optimized for modern hardware, user-friendly installer, best for gaming |
| Fedora | Latest software, strong security features, developer-friendly, reliable |
| Arch Linux | Very customizable, rolling updates, for advanced users, lightweight |
| Debian | Very stable, good for servers, strong community support, extensive hardware compatibility |
| No data available |
Wikipedia list of all Linux distributions opens in a new tab
Can you game on Linux in 2025?
Yes. In fact, Steam Deck runs Linux by default. Thanks to Valve's Proton compatibility layer opens in a new tab , thousands of Windows-only games now run just fine on Linux. Performance keeps improving, anti-cheat support is expanding, and more studios are releasing native Linux versions.
For example: Counter-Strike 2 has a native Linux client, and new games like FragPunk boot up on both desktop Linux and Steam Deck without workarounds.
That said, not every game is Linux-compatible. Games like Valorant, Fortnite, and Apex Legends rely on kernel-level anti-cheat systems that block Linux entirely. And once in a while, a game update might send you searching the web for a fix.
Is Linux right for you?
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of switching from Windows to Linux:
- Free to use with no licensing hassle
- No ads, forced updates, or bloatware
- Highly customizable desktops and themes
- Strong privacy with no background telemetry
- Open-source community and fast support
- Wide range of distributions to match different user needs and preferences
- Some apps (e.g. Adobe Suite) aren't available
- Gaming performance can vary by title
- Initial learning curve can be challenging for some users
- Hardware drivers may need manual tweaking
- A more technical setup is required for some distros
If you want speed, freedom, and full control of your machine, it’s worth trying. You don’t have to ditch Windows completely, just start with a USB stick or dual-boot.
Conclusion
In the end, trying Linux is less about commitment and more about curiosity. Try it for yourself and see if its open, flexible approach suits you. You can always return to your current setup, but you may discover that you like it enough to use in your day-to-day.