4 Operating Systems to Avoid When Upgrading from Windows 10

With Windows 10 support ending in October 2025, selecting your next operating system will be an important decision. However, switching to a new OS isn’t always smooth. It requires a learning curve and adjustments in workflow, and at times, you may need to deal with rival software to get the job done. While there is no shortage of Windows 10 alternatives, I highly recommend avoiding the options below. Each of these OSes demands a unique skill set, hardware compatibility, and software ecosystem, and misjudging these factors can lead to a frustrating and potentially insecure setup.

macOS: A Sleek but Limited Option

macOS has a sleek interface and a robust ecosystem, but Windows 10 users may find it hard to navigate and use. Unlike Windows PCs, Macs offer limited hardware upgrade options. This can be a major drawback for users who prefer to customize their systems. Besides, Apple products are generally more expensive than comparable Windows laptops. So you may need to factor in the initial high cost when moving away from your Windows 10 machine.

What about macOS? It has different keyboard shortcuts and navigation methods also differ with the control center, notification bar, menu bar, launchpad, and widgets. While most Windows apps and services are available on Mac, some of them aren’t as feature-rich and polished. For instance, Office apps and OneNote lack several features like VBA, inking capabilities, and more on Mac. Although gaming on macOS has improved, it still lags behind Windows in terms of performance and available titles.

The worst part of using macOS is Apple’s ecosystem lock-in. It encourages using Apple’s services like iCloud, which may not align with your preferences. Besides, it requires an iPhone to get the best out of your Mac setup. It slowly traps you into Apple’s hardware ecosystem. I made the switch from Windows to Mac in 2024 and I'm regretting it.

Arch Linux: A Frustrating Transition

Linux distros can be lucrative for Windows 10 users. With their open-source nature, customizability, and diverse functionalities, Linux distros offer a wealth of advantages to Windows users. However, it can be overwhelming with the sheer number of distros available out there.

Arch Linux is one such distro that you should avoid. Although it's highly customizable and powerful, Arch Linux can lead to a frustrating transition. Here’s why. Arch Linux relies heavily on the command line for system management, software installation, and troubleshooting. It surely requires a steep learning curve, and it’s not as user-friendly as other Linux distros like Ubuntu or Mint.

Arch follows a DIY philosophy where you are responsible for tweaking every aspect of your system You may need to manually configure drivers for certain hardware components, which can be complex. This makes Arch Linux less suitable for the average Windows 10 user considering a switch, especially those who lack technical expertise.

Kali OS: Not Suitable for General Desktop Use

Thanks to its appearance in the Mr. Robot TV series, Kali OS is getting popular in the Linux community. However, for the average Windows 10 user considering a switch, it is a poor choice. It is primarily designed for cybersecurity professionals and not for general desktop use, browsing the web, or everyday productivity tasks.

Kali Linux relies heavily on the command line interface and specialized security tools, which require a significant learning investment. Most Windows 10 users lack the technical expertise to navigate Kali Linux's complexities. Overall, it’s better to stick with user-friendly distributions like Ubuntu or Linux Mint for everyday computing.

ChromeOS: A Less-than-Ideal Transition

While ChromeOS offers simplicity and security, it is a less-than-ideal transition for Windows 10 users. Since it mostly has web applications and Android apps, the entire experience is quite frustrating without an active internet connection. You should absolutely avoid it if you frequently deal with a sketchy internet connection.

Although ChromeOS supports Android apps and some Linux applications, it cannot run many traditional Windows desktop applications. This can be a major hurdle for users who depend on specific software. Also, most ChromeOS devices have limited storage capacity, which may not meet the needs of heavy users.

A Word of Caution

The reality is that a simple upgrade is rarely possible, and each OS demands a unique commitment in terms of learning, adaptation, and potential compatibility issues. Before you go ahead and hit the install button, make sure to prioritize your specific needs, assess your technical comfort level, and consider both the pros and cons.

If want to stay invested in the Microsoft ecosystem, choosing Windows 11 is a logical decision. However, if you are considering alternatives, there is a wide array of competent Linux distributions available. Don’t rush into making an informed decision; weigh the risks and benefits carefully to ensure a smooth transition to your new operating system.