I've noticed that Windows runs noticeably slower compared to Linux, and I'm curious why that is. I understand that the Linux kernel has seen contributions from many developers, which likely contributes to its speed. But when it comes to Windows, why is there so much perceived bloat? Microsoft has the resources to optimize their OS significantly, so could their market dominance be influencing this? Or perhaps it's tied to Windows' long, complex history?
1 Answer
When we talk about speed, it really depends on what you mean. For example, Linux tends to copy files in memory first and then send them to disk in the background, making it feel faster when you copy files. Windows, on the other hand, completes the copy only when the data is fully on the disk. So while they both have their methods, Linux often seems quicker. Regarding bloat, Windows tends to include more features, which can make it larger and slower, while Linux's modularity allows users to install only what they need. Plus, Linux is primarily written in C, whereas Windows often relies on other languages like C#, which can add overhead.
Another factor is that in Linux, most software isn't pre-installed; users choose what to set up. This can lead to a leaner system overall, while Windows comes with a lot of default programs that aren't always useful.