Alternative Operating Systems

RemovedUser5 appsUpdated May 30, 2021

Ones you may want to consider if you want to break away from MacOS, Windows, Chrome OS, iOS, or Android

Ubuntu Phone
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Ubuntu now runs on phones. With a beautifully designed, easy-to-use interface that enables users to find content and switch between apps faster than ever, it represents the alternative open source OS the mobile industry has been waiting for.
Cost / License
Free
Open Source
Application typeApplication types
Operating System
Mobile OS
Platforms
Linux
Re
RemovedUser’s note
Ubuntu but for your mobile device. It was discontinued by Canonical in April 2017, but was picked up by UBports community soon after. Still includes "convergence" and also an ability to run Android apps! Seriously considering using Ubuntu Touch for a travel device.
LineageOS
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Free and open-source Android-based OS for smartphones and tablets that enables deep customization, regular security updates, privacy focus, and broad device compatibility.
Cost / License
Free
Open Source
Application typeApplication types
Mobile OS
Operating System
Platforms
Android
Android Tablet
Re
RemovedUser’s note
If you want to stick with Android without all the Google stuff, Lineage is your best bet! It was created from what was left of CyanogenMod. I used it for a solid chunk of time and had a pretty good experience.
LuneOS
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LuneOS is an open source firmware distribution for smartphones and tablet computers based on the Open webOS mobile operating system.
Cost / License
Free
Open Source
Application typeApplication types
Mobile OS
Operating System
Platforms
Linux
Linux Mobile
Re
RemovedUser’s note
Ah, the sweet, sweet nostalgia of WebOS. LuneOS works on many devices, including the Raspberry Pi and Galaxy Nexus!
Sailfish OS
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Sailfish OS is a European alternative to dominating mobile operating systems, and the only mobile OS offering an exclusive licensing model for local implementations.
Cost / License
Paid
Proprietary
Application typeApplication types
Mobile OS
Operating System
Platforms
Linux Mobile
+1
Re
RemovedUser’s note
I have been using Sailfish as my daily driver for near two years now, and it's absolutely great! The ability to run Android apps makes up for the subpar app store, and it's absolutely beautiful to look at, super smooth to use once you get the hang of it.
Ubuntu
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Ubuntu is a community developed, Linux-based operating system that is perfect for laptops, desktops and servers. It contains all the applications you need - a web browser, presentation, document and spreadsheet software, instant messaging and much more.
Cost / License
Free
Open Source
Application typeApplication types
Linux Distro
Operating System
Platforms
Linux
Ubuntu
+1
Re
RemovedUser’s note
I've been using Ubuntu as my daily driver on my laptop for near a year now. It's great, most Windows apps have (sometimes better) alternatives or work with WINE. Very pretty and smooth, too.