An operating system (OS) is the fundamental software that manages all the hardware and software resources of a computer. It acts as an intermediary between the user and the computer hardware, providing a user interface and controlling the execution of all kinds of programs. In essence, an OS makes a computer useful and easy to operate.
Looking for the best operating system to suit your needs? With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 5 operating systems that are currently leading the way in technology innovation and user satisfaction. From Windows 10 to Android, each has its own unique features and benefits that make them stand out from the rest. So, whether you’re a business owner looking for productivity software or a casual user seeking entertainment value, our list has got you covered! Read on to find out more about these cutting-edge operating systems and how they can improve your digital experience.
The following list details the top 10 operating systems in the world, ranked by their overall market share and influence across various device categories, including desktops, mobile devices, and servers.
- Android: The world’s most popular mobile operating system.
- Windows: The World’s Most Popular Desktop Operating System.
- iOS: Best iPhone Operating System.
Top 10 Operating Systems In The World
1. Android
Android is an open source mobile operating system developed by Google, which is based on the Linux kernel. It is specially designed for various devices, including smartphones and tablets. Android is popular for its extensive customization, user-friendly interface, and large collection of apps in the Google Play Store. Due to its open nature, various smartphone manufacturers can easily use it on their devices. As a result, it has become the most popular mobile platform in the world. Various Google services such as Google Maps, Gmail, and Google Assistant work together on it, which further improves the user experience.
Key Features of Android: Android’s latest version, Android 16, introduces a number of significant features aimed at improving user experience, security, and productivity, especially on larger devices.
Here are some of the key features:
- Improved Notifications: Android 16 automatically groups notifications from the same app to reduce clutter. It also introduces “Live Updates” in notifications, allowing users to track real-time progress for things like food delivery or rideshares without opening the app.
- Enhanced Security and Privacy: The new Advanced Protection Mode provides a stronger defense against online attacks, harmful apps, and scam calls. It includes features like theft detection that automatically locks the device if it senses someone running or driving away with it.
- Desktop Windowing and Multitasking: This feature, particularly beneficial for tablets and foldables, allows users to open, move, and resize multiple app windows on the screen, similar to a desktop environment. This improves multitasking and productivity.
- Customization: Android 16 offers more options for personalizing the device, including lock screen customizations with different fonts, colors, and widgets. It also adds a more refined and customizable experience for Pixel devices.
- Accessibility: There are new features designed to make Android more accessible, such as enhanced support for hearing devices, allowing users to control them directly from their phone.
- AI Integration: The latest version further integrates Google’s AI models, such as Gemini, to provide features like real-time contextual recommendations, intelligent notifications, and improved camera functionality.
- Performance and Battery: Android 16 includes performance enhancements and smarter battery management tools to extend battery life and provide a smoother experience across various devices.
2. Windows
It is the most widely used operating system for personal computers globally and provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for users to interact with their devices.
Windows is the largest operating system for many users due to its familiar interface, broad software compatibility, and wide hardware support.
3. iOS
iOS, short for iPhone Operating System, developed by Apple Inc. exclusively for its hardware, is the operating system that powers the iPhone. It is celebrated for its intuitive and clean user interface, robust security features, and a high-quality ecosystem of applications available through the App Store. Apple’s focus on a seamless integration between its hardware and software results in a highly optimized and stable user experience, which has garnered a loyal and significant user base worldwide.
iOS is the best iPhone operating system for many users because of its smooth performance, strong security, and seamless ecosystem.
4. macOS
macOS is a graphical operating system developed by Apple Inc. for its Macintosh line of computers, commonly known as Macs.
Formerly known as OS X, macOS is Apple’s desktop operating system, powering Mac computers such as the MacBook, iMac, Mac mini, and Mac Studio. It supports a wide range of professional and creative applications, making it popular among designers, developers, and video editors. Features like Spotlight search, Mission Control, and Continuity enhance productivity and workflow. With regular updates, Apple ensures improved performance, security, and new features. macOS also emphasizes privacy and data protection, offering built-in encryption and app permissions. It’s optimized for Apple hardware, delivering fast, efficient, and smooth performance across Mac devices.
5. Linux
Linux is a powerful, versatile, and open-source operating system that has become a cornerstone of modern technology.
Linux is a family of open-source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel. Unlike other operating systems, Linux is available in many different distributions, or “distros,” such as Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian, each with its own set of features and design philosophies. Linux is a powerhouse in the server market, powering a significant portion of the internet’s infrastructure. It is also popular among developers and technically-inclined users for its flexibility, security, and strong command-line interface.
6. Ubuntu
Ubuntu is a free and open-source Linux-based operating system developed by the UK-based company Canonical.
Ubuntu is widely used for desktops, servers, and cloud computing.
Ubuntu is one of the best Linux distributions for many users because of its user-friendly interface, regular updates & LTS versions, and community support.
6. ChromeOS
ChromeOS is a lightweight, security-focused operating system designed by Google. It is designed to be fast, simple, and secure, primarily running web applications. ChromeOS powers Chromebooks, which are popular in the education sector and for users whose computing needs are largely browser-based. Its simplicity and reliance on cloud storage make it a low-maintenance and efficient operating system.
7. iPadOS
Introduced by Apple in 2019, iPadOS is a specialized version of iOS designed specifically for the larger screen and multitasking capabilities of the iPad. It includes features not found in iOS, such as a more desktop-like home screen, enhanced multitasking with Split View and Slide Over, and support for external trackpads and mice. iPadOS aims to bridge the gap between a traditional tablet and a laptop, offering a more versatile user experience.
8. Fuchsia
Fuchsia is an open-source, capability-based operating system currently being developed by Google. Unlike Android and ChromeOS, which are based on the Linux kernel, Fuchsia is based on a new microkernel called Zircon. While still in its early stages and not widely deployed, it has started appearing on some Google Nest Hub devices. Its inclusion in this list is due to its potential to be a future, unified operating system for a wide range of Google devices.
9. FreeBSD
FreeBSD is a free and open-source Unix-like operating system descended from the Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD). It is known for its stability, security, and robust networking features. While not as common on desktops, FreeBSD is widely used in servers, embedded systems, and network appliances. Its permissive license also makes it a popular choice for companies to build their own proprietary products upon.
10. Tizen
Tizen is an open-source, Linux-based operating system sponsored by Samsung and the Linux Foundation. It is designed for a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, smartwatches, and some smartphones. Samsung has heavily integrated Tizen into its popular line of smart TVs and wearables, making it a significant player in the Internet of Things (IoT) space.