7 Ubuntu Benefits That Make It Worth Trying (Windows vs Ubuntu Explained)

1. Ubuntu Benefits at a Glance: Who Actually Wins?

If you’re searching for “Ubuntu benefits,” you probably want a clear answer to one question:

Is Ubuntu worth using for me?

The short version is this: Ubuntu helps you build a low-cost, lightweight, and reliable PC environment—especially when your needs match what Linux does well.

Ubuntu tends to be a great choice for people like:

• Anyone who wants to reduce costs: Ubuntu is free to install and use.
• People who want a faster-feeling PC: It can run smoothly, especially on older machines.
• Students and developers: Setting up programming tools is often straightforward.
• Users who care about stability and updates: Long-term support versions make maintenance easier.

That said, Ubuntu is not a perfect replacement for Windows in every situation. If you rely on:

• Windows-only business software
• certain printers or device drivers
• specific games or creative tools

…then switching can require extra work.

So instead of thinking “Ubuntu is better or worse,” it’s more accurate to think:

Ubuntu is better for certain use cases.

This article is designed to help you decide quickly and confidently.

1.1 What You’ll Learn in This Guide

By the end, you’ll be able to understand:

• The key benefits of Ubuntu (with real-world examples)
• The downsides and common pitfalls (so you don’t regret switching)
• How Ubuntu compares to Windows in practical terms
• Who Ubuntu is best for (and who should avoid it)
• The safest ways to try Ubuntu without breaking your current setup

If you’re unsure whether to switch, this guide will give you a solid decision framework.

1.2 The Best Situations to Use Ubuntu

Ubuntu’s advantages become obvious when you want:

• A clean and stable OS for web browsing and everyday tasks
• A way to extend the life of an older PC
• A solid environment for learning programming or running development tools
• A system that stays manageable with predictable updates

If you’re expecting Ubuntu to magically fix everything, you may be disappointed.
But if you use it for the right purpose, it can be an excellent upgrade.

2. What Is Ubuntu? (Ubuntu vs. Linux in 1 Minute)

Ubuntu is an operating system, just like Windows or macOS.
The difference is that Ubuntu is built on Linux, and it’s designed to be one of the most user-friendly Linux options.

You’ll often hear people say “Linux is hard,” but Ubuntu exists specifically to make Linux easier to use.

2.1 Where Ubuntu Fits in the Linux World

Linux is the core system technology (the “kernel”), and Ubuntu is a complete, ready-to-use version of Linux.

In simple terms:

• Linux = the foundation
• Ubuntu = a user-friendly OS built on Linux

Ubuntu usually includes:

• A desktop interface (GUI)
• Easy software installation tools
• Frequent updates
• Strong community support and documentation

This is why Ubuntu is often recommended as the best starting point for beginners.

2.2 What “LTS” Means (And Why Beginners Should Care)

Ubuntu comes in different versions, and one label matters more than anything for most users:

LTS (Long Term Support).

LTS versions are designed for stability and long-term use. For beginners, that’s important because it means:

• fewer disruptive changes
• more predictable updates
• easier troubleshooting (more guides match your version)

If you don’t have a strong reason to use the newest release, LTS is usually the safest choice.

3. The 7 Biggest Benefits of Ubuntu (With Practical Examples)

Here are the most important advantages of Ubuntu, explained in a way that’s easy to picture—especially if you’re coming from Windows.

3.1 It’s Free (Lower Cost, Easier to Try)

The most obvious benefit: Ubuntu is free to use.

That means you can:

• install it on an old PC
• test it without buying anything
• set up a second machine without extra OS costs

This makes Ubuntu especially attractive if you want to experiment or build a low-budget setup.

Example:
You can turn an old laptop into a “web + writing machine” or a learning PC without spending money on software licenses.

3.2 Long-Term Stability (Updates Are Easier to Manage)

Ubuntu is known for having a well-structured update system, especially if you choose an LTS version.

For most users, security isn’t about “perfect protection.” It’s about:

• staying updated
• avoiding outdated systems
• keeping your environment stable

Ubuntu makes it relatively easy to keep things maintained over time, which helps reduce long-term risk.

3.3 It Can Feel Lightweight (Great for Older PCs)

Ubuntu often feels faster and cleaner, especially on older hardware.

This usually happens because:

• fewer unnecessary background processes
• a simpler base system
• you can install only what you need

Example:
A PC that feels slow on Windows might run smoothly on Ubuntu for tasks like:

• browsing
• writing
• email
• basic productivity work

Important note: Ubuntu isn’t magic. Performance depends on your hardware and your use case. But the “lightweight” benefit is real for many users.

3.4 Great for Programming and Development

Ubuntu is a top choice for developers because it’s easy to set up:

• programming languages
• development tools
• server-like environments

If you’re learning:

• Python
• web development
• Linux basics
• cloud/server operations

Ubuntu can be a strong long-term investment.

Example:
Installing tools and libraries is often faster and cleaner than on Windows, and many tutorials assume a Linux environment.

3.5 Highly Customizable (You Can Shape It to Your Workflow)

Ubuntu lets you adjust your system more freely than most people expect.

You can customize things like:

• desktop layout and appearance
• keyboard shortcuts
• system behavior and efficiency

This is useful if you prefer a clean, distraction-free environment.

Example:
You can build a minimal workspace with only the apps you actually use, which keeps your system simple and easier to manage.

3.6 Strong Community Support (Troubleshooting Is Easier)

Ubuntu has a massive user base. That means:

• tons of guides and tutorials
• many solutions already documented online
• easier searching when something goes wrong

Even if you run into an error, you can often copy the message into Google and find a fix quickly.

3.7 Cleaner System Experience (Less Bloat, More Control)

Many Windows PCs come with:

• pre-installed software you never asked for
• extra utilities running in the background
• “recommended apps” and notifications

Ubuntu usually starts cleaner, and you can keep it that way.

This gives you more control and often leads to:

• fewer slowdowns
• simpler system management
• easier troubleshooting later

4. Ubuntu Downsides and Risks (Don’t Skip This)

Ubuntu has real benefits, but it also has limitations.
If you ignore these, you’re more likely to regret switching.

4.1 Some Windows Apps Won’t Run (Office and Business Software)

The biggest issue for most users is compatibility.

Ubuntu cannot run many Windows-only apps directly, including:

• company-specific business tools
• certain accounting software
• Windows-only utilities
• some professional software suites

Microsoft Office is also a common problem. You may need:

• web versions
• alternatives
• or a Windows setup for certain tasks

Best practice:
Before switching, list the apps you rely on daily and confirm whether they work on Ubuntu.

4.2 Hardware Compatibility Can Be an Issue (Printers, Wi-Fi, Drivers)

Ubuntu works well on many machines, but hardware issues still happen—especially with:

• unusual Wi-Fi adapters
• some printers and scanners
• special device drivers
• certain GPU configurations

Smart solution:
Try Ubuntu using a Live USB first.
That way you can check:

• Wi-Fi
• sound
• display
• basic usability

…without changing your current system.

4.3 Gaming and Creative Work Depends on Your Needs

Ubuntu can handle some games and creative workflows, but it’s not always the best option.

Gaming is tricky because:

• many games are built for Windows first
• compatibility can vary widely
• performance depends heavily on drivers

Creative work (video editing, design, etc.) also depends on whether your preferred tools support Linux.

If your main goal is gaming or professional creative work, Windows is usually the safer choice.

4.4 Software Installation Methods Can Feel Confusing at First

Ubuntu has multiple ways to install software, such as:

• app stores
• package managers
• different distribution formats

This isn’t necessarily “bad,” but beginners sometimes get confused when:

• the same app has different versions
• installation steps differ between guides

You don’t need to master everything.
Start with the simplest method and expand only when necessary.

4.5 The Real Cost Is “Learning Time”

Ubuntu is beginner-friendly, but it still requires adjustment.

You may need time to learn:

• where settings are located
• how software installation works
• basic Linux terms

The safest approach is not to replace Windows instantly, but to use Ubuntu gradually for a specific purpose (like learning or web work).

5. Ubuntu vs. Windows: Strengths and Weaknesses (Simple Comparison)

If you’re deciding between Ubuntu and Windows, the fastest way to get clarity is to compare them by practical factors—not hype.

5.1 Key Comparison Points (Cost, Updates, Speed, Compatibility, Maintenance)

This makes the tradeoff very clear:

• Ubuntu wins for cost, simplicity, control, and development use
• Windows wins for compatibility, mainstream software, and gaming

5.2 Which One Is Safer for Work?

For most people, Windows is the safer default for work because workplaces often require:

• specific apps
• specific file formats
• specific device drivers
• specific procedures

Ubuntu is powerful, but work environments usually reward compatibility over flexibility.

When Ubuntu is excellent for work

Ubuntu becomes a strong “work OS” when your job fits its strengths, such as:

• programming and development
• server administration
• research and technical work
• writing and browser-based workflows

If your work is mostly in the browser and cloud tools, Ubuntu can be a clean and stable choice.

The most realistic answer: Use both

A very practical approach is:

• keep Windows for Windows-only tasks
• use Ubuntu for learning, development, and clean productivity work

This avoids the biggest risk: losing access to critical Windows-only tools.

6. Who Should Use Ubuntu (And Who Shouldn’t)

Ubuntu is not “for everyone,” but it’s perfect for certain types of users.

6.1 Ubuntu Is Great For These People

1) People who want a free, low-cost setup

Ubuntu is ideal if you want:

• a second PC setup without spending more
• a clean system without licensing costs
• a safe environment to experiment

This is one of the biggest reasons Ubuntu is so popular.

2) People who mostly use a browser

If your daily tasks are:

• web browsing
• email
• Google Docs / online tools
• watching videos
• basic productivity work

Ubuntu can handle this easily, often with a clean and smooth experience.

3) People who want to revive an older PC

Ubuntu can be a smart option for older machines—especially when you use them for light tasks.

It’s not a miracle fix, but it often performs better than expected when the workload is simple.

4) Students and developers learning programming

Ubuntu shines in:

• Python learning
• web development
• Linux basics
• server-like environments

Many modern development workflows assume Linux-style tools, so learning Ubuntu can be a long-term advantage.

5) People who like a clean, controlled system

Ubuntu is great if you prefer:

• minimal distractions
• fewer unnecessary background apps
• a system you can keep organized

If you enjoy customizing your workflow, Ubuntu gives you more freedom than most mainstream OS setups.

6.2 Ubuntu Might NOT Be a Good Fit For These People

1) People who rely on Windows-only apps

If you must use:

• company software
• Windows-only business tools
• specific programs that don’t have Linux versions

Ubuntu may cause friction.
This is the #1 reason people switch back.

2) People who need perfect Microsoft Office compatibility

If your work depends on:

• complex Excel files
• macros
• strict formatting requirements

Ubuntu alone may not be enough.

In that case, it’s smarter to keep Windows available for Office-heavy work.

3) People who depend on specific hardware tools

If you rely on special:

• printers/scanners
• device utilities
• VPN/security software

Ubuntu may require extra setup, or it may not support everything perfectly.

4) People whose main goal is gaming

Ubuntu can work for gaming in some cases, but Windows is still the safest choice overall.

If gaming is your priority, switching OS can become frustrating quickly.

5) People who want “zero troubleshooting”

Ubuntu is user-friendly, but it still expects you to:

• search for solutions
• follow technical instructions sometimes
• learn basic system concepts

If you want a system that works exactly like Windows with no learning curve, Ubuntu might feel stressful.

The best beginner strategy: Add Ubuntu, don’t replace Windows

For most beginners, the safest success path is:

• Use Ubuntu as an additional option (learning, testing, second PC)
• Not a full replacement on day one

That way you get the benefits without the biggest risks.

7. How to Start Ubuntu Safely (Beginner-Friendly Paths)

If you’ve decided Ubuntu looks promising, the next question is:

What’s the safest way to try it without breaking anything?

For beginners, the best approach is simple:

Don’t erase Windows immediately. Try Ubuntu in a low-risk way first.

Here are the most practical methods.

7.1 Try Ubuntu First with a Live USB (No Installation Needed)

One of Ubuntu’s biggest advantages is that you can test it without installing it using a Live USB.

A Live USB lets you boot Ubuntu from a USB drive and check how it feels on your machine.

What you should test:

• Can it connect to Wi-Fi?
• Does sound work?
• Does the screen display correctly?
• Can you use the browser smoothly?
• Can you type normally (keyboard + language input)?

Why this is the best first step:

• You don’t delete anything
• You don’t risk your current setup
• You can confirm hardware compatibility early

For beginners, this is the smartest way to start.

7.2 Dual Boot vs. Virtual Machine (Which Should You Choose?)

Once you like Ubuntu, you may want to use it more regularly.
At that point, you’ll usually choose between:

• Dual boot
• Virtual machine

Dual boot (Ubuntu + Windows on the same PC)

With dual boot, you install both Ubuntu and Windows and choose which OS to start when the PC boots.

Pros

• Ubuntu runs at full performance
• Great for learning Linux seriously
• Good for development work

Cons

• Setup can be risky if done incorrectly
• Disk partitioning can confuse beginners
• Switching between OS requires rebooting

Virtual machine (Run Ubuntu inside Windows)

A virtual machine lets you run Ubuntu like an app while Windows stays running.

Pros

• Very safe for beginners
• Easy to delete/reset if something goes wrong
• Great for learning and testing

Cons

• Uses more system resources
• Can feel slower on weaker PCs
• Not ideal for heavy graphics tasks

Quick recommendation for beginners

If you’re not sure, use this decision rule:

• Want the safest learning path → Virtual machine
• Want full performance Ubuntu → Dual boot
• Want quick compatibility testing → Live USB

A common beginner path is:

Live USB → Virtual machine → Dual boot (optional)

7.3 Choose LTS if You Want the Smoothest Experience

Ubuntu comes in multiple versions, but for beginners, the most stable choice is:

Ubuntu LTS (Long Term Support)

LTS versions are designed for:

• stability
• predictable updates
• long-term usability

This matters because beginners don’t want surprises like:

• sudden UI changes
• major system behavior shifts
• tutorials that don’t match their version

If you don’t have a specific reason to use the newest release, LTS is the safest default.

8. Common Misconceptions (Clear Your Doubts Before Switching)

Many people hesitate to use Ubuntu because of common misunderstandings.
Let’s clear those up.

8.1 “Ubuntu is too hard” → It’s different, not impossible

Ubuntu can feel difficult at first, but mostly because:

• menus are in different places
• software installation works differently
• some troubleshooting requires searching

For everyday use—web browsing, writing, and basic tasks—Ubuntu is not “hard.”

It becomes harder when you try to do more advanced things, like:

• command-line system changes
• driver-level fixes
• deep customization

But you don’t need to start there.

8.2 “Do I need the terminal?” → Not always, but it helps

The terminal (command line) looks scary to beginners, but:

You don’t need it for basic use.

You might need it when:

• a guide tells you to run a command
• you’re installing development tools
• you’re fixing a specific issue

The best beginner mindset is:

• Use the app store / GUI first
• Use terminal commands only when needed
• Learn gradually over time

8.3 “Ubuntu doesn’t need security” → Safer, but not invincible

Ubuntu is generally safer than many people expect, but it’s not magic.

Security still depends heavily on:

• keeping your system updated
• avoiding suspicious downloads
• using strong passwords

Ubuntu helps because it’s easier to keep clean and updated, but safe behavior still matters.

8.4 “Free means low quality” → Not true

Ubuntu is free, but that doesn’t mean it’s poorly made.

It’s widely used and constantly improved, which is why it has:

• strong stability (especially LTS)
• massive community support
• lots of documentation and guides

Free simply means it’s easier to try—and easier to use without cost barriers.

8.5 “Ubuntu will always be faster” → Depends on your use case

Ubuntu can feel fast, especially on older PCs, but results vary.

Ubuntu often feels faster when:

• your tasks are light (web, writing)
• you keep the system minimal
• your hardware is compatible

Ubuntu may not feel faster when:

• you run heavy creative apps
• you need strong gaming performance
• you have driver or hardware issues

Ubuntu’s “speed advantage” is real—but it’s not guaranteed for every situation.

9. FAQ (Quick Answers for Beginners)

This FAQ section is designed to answer the most common questions people ask after searching “Ubuntu benefits.”

9.1 What is the biggest benefit of Ubuntu?

The biggest benefit is that Ubuntu is free and can provide a clean, stable, lightweight system—especially when your needs match its strengths.

Ubuntu is especially useful for:

• budget-friendly setups
• older PCs
• browser-based daily use
• programming and development learning
• building a minimal, well-controlled environment

9.2 Is Ubuntu really free? Can I use it for business?

Yes, Ubuntu is free to install and use.

However, for business use, the important questions are:

• Do you need official support?
• Do you rely on Windows-only software?
• Do you require perfect Office compatibility?
• Are your devices (printers, scanners, VPN tools) compatible?

For most businesses, the safest approach is to test Ubuntu first before switching fully.

9.3 Is Ubuntu lighter than Windows? Will it run on an old PC?

Ubuntu can feel lighter than Windows, especially for tasks like:

• web browsing
• writing
• basic productivity

On older PCs, Ubuntu often runs smoothly when the workload is simple.

That said, performance depends on:

• your CPU and RAM
• storage speed (SSD vs HDD)
• hardware compatibility

The safest way to know is to try Ubuntu with a Live USB first.

9.4 What are the main downsides of Ubuntu?

The most common downsides are:

1. Windows-only apps may not work
2. Hardware compatibility issues can happen
3. There’s a learning curve (menus, tools, terminology)

Ubuntu is excellent, but it’s not a universal Windows replacement for every user.

9.5 Should beginners choose Ubuntu LTS? What’s the difference?

Yes—beginners should usually choose Ubuntu LTS.

LTS versions are built for:

• stability
• long-term usability
• predictable updates

They also have better guide compatibility, meaning tutorials online are more likely to match your version.

If you don’t have a special reason to use the newest release, LTS is the safest option.

9.6 Can I use Microsoft Office on Ubuntu?

Not in the same way you would on Windows.

Ubuntu does not run the full Windows version of Microsoft Office directly.

Depending on your needs, alternatives include:

• using web-based Office tools
• using compatible office suites
• keeping Windows for Office-heavy work

If you depend on Excel macros or strict formatting, it’s safer to keep Windows available.

9.7 Which is better: dual boot or a controller?

A small correction here: the common comparison is dual boot vs. a virtual machine.

Virtual machine is best for beginners because:

• it’s safe
• it’s easy to reset or delete
• Windows stays untouched

Dual boot is best if you want full Ubuntu performance, but it requires careful setup.

A good beginner path is:

Live USB → Virtual machine → Dual boot (optional)

9.8 How long does Ubuntu receive security updates?

If you choose Ubuntu LTS, you can keep your system secure more easily over the long term because LTS releases are designed for stable, long-term updates.

The most important security habit is:

• keep your system updated
• avoid suspicious downloads
• use strong passwords

Ubuntu makes long-term maintenance easier, but safe usage still matters.

10. Final Summary: What to Do Next

Ubuntu’s benefits are strongest when you want a system that is:

• free
• clean and lightweight
• stable and manageable
• great for learning and development

Ubuntu is especially valuable for:

• extending the life of an older PC
• browser-based work and simple daily use
• programming, learning, and technical workflows
• users who prefer control and customization

However, Ubuntu may not be the best fit if you rely on:

• Windows-only business software
• perfect Microsoft Office compatibility
• specific hardware utilities
• gaming as your main purpose

Best next step for beginners

The safest way to start is:

1. Try Ubuntu with a Live USB
2. If it works well, practice in a virtual machine
3. If you want full performance, consider dual boot
4. Choose Ubuntu LTS if you want the smoothest experience

Ubuntu is not about replacing everything instantly.
It’s about using the right tool for the right job—and starting in a low-risk way.