Windows or Linux: Which is Better for Gaming and Light Work?

Honestly, it's about what you're most comfortable with! If you prefer the open-source flexibility without much hassle, Linux could be your new home. But if you want to stick with mainstream gaming and software stability, Windows could still be a safer bet, at least until they iron out some issues with Windows 11.

Both OSes have their strengths! Windows might offer better compatibility for some applications, but Linux has a lot of great alternatives, especially for scientific work. If you're into customizability, Linux really shines there—it's more than just an operating system, it lets you design your interface! Plus, you can always dual-boot if you want the flexibility of both worlds.

For gaming on Linux, it's definitely getting better. Sure, there are still some games that don't run well, especially those that rely on invasive anti-cheats, but many users find it performs quite well for general gaming. Your use case sounds perfect for Linux since most of the heavy lifting you'll do doesn't really need Windows. And if you're not worried about competitive gaming, give Linux a shot! Just remember to research if your favorite games run well on it.

I've seen people comfortably using Linux for casual gaming and light work, especially in research fields. Scientific software is often well-supported, and there's a ton of documentation out there. I suggest checking out resources like ProtonDB to see how your games perform on Linux. If everything checks out, you might love the freedom Linux gives you.

Linux has come a long way in terms of gaming compatibility, and many people are reporting better FPS on Linux than Windows! However, if you're into competitive games with heavy anti-cheat systems, like Call of Duty or Valorant, you might hit some roadblocks since those games often require Windows. For your light work, Linux is typically lighter and snappier than Windows, plus it gives you more control over your system. Still, check compatibility for any specific applications you need for your studies, as it might influence your choice.