Highlights
- Windows 10 will no longer be supported in 2025, so no more updates will be available to keep you safe from online threats.
- If your PC doesn’t support Windows 11 and you don’t want to buy a new computer, don’t stress—there are great free Linux alternatives that can keep your system safe and working just fine.
- Guess what? We have some of the best alternatives for Windows.

Ultimately, in the past few years, Linux has become a solid choice for gamers over Windows.
This led to a tsunami of developers and gaming companies bringing their titles into the Linux ecosystem, which caused Linux gaming to grow considerably, making it one of the best platforms for gaming, with tons of titles to choose from.
The idea behind gaming on Linux is that it provides a better experience, and this article will explore the options, tools, and configurations that make Linux gaming a compelling choice. So, let’s start with our Windows alternative for Linux gaming.
Why Consider Linux for Gaming?
Before we get into the alternatives for Linux gaming, let’s step back a second and discuss why Linux is a more attractive gaming platform than ever:
- Open-Source Flexibility: Linux is open-source and free to download and use.
- Improved Game Compatibility: Tools such as Proton and Steam Play have closed the gaps, making Windows games work well on Linux.
- Better Performance: Most Linux distributions are fairly lightweight and use fewer resources than Windows, enhancing the game’s performance.
- Security and Privacy: Linux is less vulnerable to viruses and has better privacy options than Windows.
#1. LinuxFX
LinuxFX (or WindowsFX) is a Linux distribution that aims to provide a look and feel similar to Microsoft Windows.
This operating system is intended to be a user-friendly environment for Windows users making the switch to Linux, offering the core benefits of an open-source OS while delivering a Windows-like desktop experience.
System Requirements
- Minimum:
- Processor: Dual-core 1 GHz
- RAM: 2 GB
- Storage: 20 GB HDD
- Graphics: Basic integrated GPU
- Recommended:
- Processor: Quad-core or higher
- RAM: 4 GB or more
- Storage: 50 GB SSD
- Graphics: Dedicated GPU for better visual Performance
Key Features of LinuxFX
a. Windows-like Interface
- Desktop Environment: LinuxFX uses either KDE Plasma or Cinnamon with a Windows-style theme. The start menu, taskbar, and system tray all look very similar to Windows 10 or Windows 11.
- File Explorer: Trying to mimic Windows Explorer (similar looks and functions).
- Cortana-like Assistant: It includes a built-in virtual assistant, known as Helloa, that is voice-activated and helps users navigate the system. That’s the reason this is one of the best Windows alternatives for Linux gaming.
b. Pre-installed Applications
- It offers common tools, including LibreOffice (an alternative to Microsoft Office), WPS Office, Firefox, Chromium, and multimedia players.
- Facilitates integration with Microsoft Office 365 or other Windows applications using Wine or Crossover, enabling users to run native Windows software.
c. Compatibility
- Windows Software: Great support for .exe and .msi files through Wine, allowing for applications like Photoshop, Microsoft Office, and even some games to be used easily.
- Hardware Drivers: Comes with drivers for various hardware, so compatibility is provided out of the box.
d. Customization
- Has a lot of customization options, enabling users to customize the layout of the system.
- Those who desire a more traditional Linux desktop experience can simply switch.
e. Performance
- Designed for user-friendliness and performance with even older machines.
- Lightweight with fast boot and low resource consumption.
f. Security
- Leverages the innate security of Linux, including privacy and regular updates.
- Other security features, including a built-in firewall and antivirus, also provide additional protection.
Editions
LinuxFX editions available for different users:
- Free Version: It has all the essentials.
- Pro Version: The paid version offers built-in support for Windows apps and more customization and premium tools.
Advantages
- Ease of Use: Great for Windows users who want to try Linux.
- Cost-Effective: No cost (with Pro options, you can pay for).
- Windows App Support: Use Windows applications using Wine or Crossover.
- Secure: Strong focus on privacy and security.
- Customizability: Highly customizable while maintaining a Windows-like experience.
Disadvantages
- Limited Authenticity: Although it resembles Windows, some functionality may not work the same as the real thing, which could be frustrating for some users.
- Proprietary Components: LinuxFX is not entirely open source, which may not attract Linux purists.
- Pro Version Cost: The pro features of the app require a subscription payment to use—unlike many Linux versions, which are free for everyone.
- Resource Usage: The nice Windows-style look and added functionalities can also make it heavier than light Linux distributions.
Ideal Use Cases
- For Windows Users: Great for users switching from Windows to Linux.
- For Older Hardware: USB stick with a modern Windows-esque experience for older systems.
- For Testing Windows Apps on Linux: A boon for developers or users who want to test Windows software in a Linux environment
Downloading Link: LinuxFX
#2. Wubuntu
Wubuntu, or Windows Ubuntu, is an Ubuntu-based Linux OS in which users will feel the benefits of Microsoft Windows in an easy way along with Linux, in full flexibility and security.
It is designed for users who prefer a lightweight and minimal OS that gives no issue of compatibility with both Windows and Android applications that will also work on it.
System Requirements
- Minimum Requirements:
- Processor: Any 64-bit-capable CPU
- RAM: 2 GB
- Storage: 20 GB HDD or SSD
- Graphics: Basic integrated GPU
- Recommended Requirements:
- Processor: Dual-core or higher
- RAM: 4 GB or more
- Storage: 50 GB SSD for optimal Performance
- Graphics: Dedicated GPU for better graphical Performance
Key Features of Wubuntu
1. Windows-like Interface
- Windows-Inspired Design: Wubuntu mimics the Windows environment aesthetically by providing the same themes, icons, and layout used in Microsoft Windows.
- User-Friendly Navigation: It has a familiar layout with a start menu, along with a taskbar and a file explorer that are similar enough for anyone used to Windows. It is also the most preferable Windows alternative for Linux gaming among youngsters.
2. Compatibility with Windows Applications
- .exe and .msi Support: Many Windows applications (like Microsoft Office, Photoshop, etc.) can run without major issues in Wubuntu with an optimized version of Wine.
- Smooth Integration: Applications work almost exactly as they would on a native Windows machine, reducing the learning curve.
3. Android and Play Store Compatibility
- Android Subsystem: Wubuntu uses a native Android subsystem to enable installing and running Android directly.
- Google Play Store Access: The Play Store is used to download and use Android games and applications.
4. Optimized for Older Hardware
- No Special Requirements: Unlike current versions of Windows that require features like TPM (Trusted Platform Module) and Secure Boot, Wubuntu will work on devices with (or without) those things.
- Lightweight: Optimized to run on lower-spec systems, which makes it an excellent choice for older PCs or laptops.
- 64-bit Architecture: Only one requirement is that all the systems should be 64-bit supported.
5. Unique Features
- Enhanced Security: The inherent security features of Linux are utilized in Wubuntu to provide a more secure environment for browsing and working.
- Performance Optimization: Its low resources ensure you’ll have a system responsive enough for your needs, even on older hardware.
- Ease of Use: Designed to make work and entertainment natural and effortless, minimizing the friction associated with a new operating system.
Advantages of Wubuntu
- Ease of Transition:
- Ideal for first-time Linuxers coming from Windows.
- Reduces learning curve due to Windows-like interface.
- Broad Application Support:
- Brings together the best of both worlds: Windows and Android apps.
- No Special Hardware Needs:
- It has no requirement for TPM, Secure Boot, or POPCNT (a hardware instruction available in some processors), unlike Windows 11.
- Lightweight and Efficient:
- Great for legacy hardware and low-spec machines.
- Security and Stability:
- Gets Linux’s history of solid security and system stability.
Disadvantages of Wubuntu
- Limited Windows Compatibility:
- Not every Windows app will work flawlessly that way despite being optimized for Wine.
- Android Subsystem Limitations:
- Android apps don’t behave like they do on pure Android (meaning pure Android) devices.
- Community and Support:
- Being a relatively niche OS, Wubuntu will have less of a community than a normal Linux distributor like Ubuntu or Fedora.
- Proprietary Tools:
- Some functionality will not be consistent with the fully open-source philosophy of Linux fans.
Ideal Use Cases
- For Transitioning Users: For anyone switching from Windows to Linux that wants a homely atmosphere.
- For Low-Spec Devices: Lightweight OS to revive old computers.
- For Multi-Platform Users: It requires compatibility with both Windows and Android applications.
- For Secure Browsing: People who browse the internet or store sensitive data while being privacy- and security-oriented.
Downloading Link: Wubuntu
Sum Up
Linux has grown into a powerful gaming platform, offering gamers a cost-effective, secure, and customizable alternative to Windows.
Distributions like Wubuntu and LinuxFX make gaming on Linux more accessible than ever. So, if you want, you can try these alternatives.
However, if you don’t know how to install the Windows alternative for Linux gaming, comment below, and our team will help you.
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