It has been officially confirmed that Linux distributions now occupy 3% of global desktops. However, if we include devices running Chrome OS, that figure rises to 7%. These statistics are derived from tracking code embedded in browsers, making it difficult to separate desktops from laptops.
Over the past year, Windows’ market share has dropped from 76.33% to 68.23%, while MacOS has experienced a sharp rise from 14.64% to 21.32%. This leaves Linux, ChromeOS, and the “unknown” category accounting for the remaining 10.5%.
Although we cannot claim that Linux is experiencing a phenomenon of popularity, it is undoubtedly more user-friendly than ever before. This is due to devices like the Raspberry Pi and Valve’s Steam Deck, which come with tailor-made operating systems (Raspberry Pi OS and SteamOS) that resemble Windows while still offering the freedom of open-source software.
When the idea of writing about the rise of Linux was presented, it was said to “test my love of Linux” as I had purchased both a Steam Deck and a Raspberry Pi for different purposes. To my surprise, I found both devices to be highly satisfactory. Linux has made considerable progress in appealing not only to businesses but also to the general public.
I initially had some reservations about SteamOS due to software compatibility issues, but Valve’s compatibility layer for Windows software, Proton, is continuously improving and has even proven to work better than Windows installed on the Steam Deck. Other gaming application launchers, such as Lutris, provide a custom implementation of the well-known Wine compatibility layer, along with community installers for various software. While Steam and Lutris are not explicitly designed for installing business software tools, I have had success doing so, creating a portable work environment when needed.
Sometimes, even that level of functionality may seem excessive. The Steam Deck, for example, offers a “Discover” application that replicates the Flathub software repository, providing free software in an app store-like interface. This includes not only games but also office software, word processors, FTP and torrent clients, and even Blender, an open-source 3D modeling software.
Although I briefly considered turning my Steam Deck into a work laptop, I realized that it would be unoriginal and uninteresting. However, the Steam Deck, priced at £349, and Raspberry Pis, available for as little as £35, are affordable options for setting up a workstation.
Using an application called InputDirector, the Steam Deck can easily function as a “third display” in Windows, allowing you to control one set of monitors on another system. This feature is beneficial if you use the same operating system on both your laptop and primary PC.
Additionally, I have been tinkering with a Raspberry Pi, which I find incredibly appealing due to its compact size and Windows-like stock operating system. It serves as an ideal choice for an entry-level small business server connected to a powered USB hub. This setup is perfect for creating a NAS (network attached storage) box, providing a cost-effective and straightforward solution.
On Raspberry Pi OS, setting up an SFTP server is as simple as enabling SSH, either in the settings or during the OS installation. This has been the easiest task across my various Raspberry Pi projects.
Devices like the Raspberry Pi and the Steam Deck are effectively dispelling the various fears and misconceptions surrounding Linux. These devices have created robust communities and gained third-party support, resulting in a wide range of software tools and accessories designed specifically for them. If you encounter any issues with these Linux-based devices, a quick search online will usually help you find a solution.
In contrast, handheld Windows PCs aiming for a similar effect, such as Asus’ ROG Ally and the Aya Neo, are not quite as successful. Companies like Valve and the Raspberry Pi Foundation produce hardware known for its quality and long-term support, all while maintaining a competitive price point.
As someone who recently converted to Linux, I’ve learned that if there’s a desired app function, it is highly likely that it is available in some form on Linux. You don’t need to exclusively rely on the command line to make things work. Linux can be tailored to suit your needs. While I currently use both Linux and Windows, I am genuinely pleased with the progress of Linux and optimistic about its future.
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Alex Smith is a writer and editor with over 10 years of experience. He has written extensively on a variety of topics, including technology, business, and personal finance. His work has been published in a number of magazines and newspapers, and he is also the author of two books. Alex is passionate about helping people learn and grow, and he believes that writing is a powerful tool for communication and understanding.
