Here’s the Deal

Windows 8.1 vs Artix Linux

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When comparing Windows 8.1 vs Artix Linux, the Slant community recommends Artix Linux for most people. In the question“What is the best laptop OS?” Artix Linux is ranked 8th while Windows 8.1 is ranked 61st.

Specs

No specs yet!

Based OnArch Linux

Default Desktop EnvironmentBash (Unix shell), Cinnamon, KDE Plasma, LXDE, LXQt, MATE and XFCE

Init SystemsDinit, OpenRC, runit and s6

OS Family GNU/Linux

Official Supported Architecturesx86-64 (AMD64) and AArch64 (ARM64)

Origin Worldwide

Package ManagerPacman

Release ScheduleRolling release

Release TypeBinary

Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking

Common Questions

What is the best laptop OS?

Pros

Pro
Hardware Compatibility

Windows has excellent x86-based compatibility, and has recently announced ARM compatibility as well.

Pro
Familiar Windows Interface

As opposed to unfamiliar and purpose-built Linux distros, Windows still reigns supreme for sheer usability and ease of use.

Pro
Customizable UI

There are many that can be used to customize the MetroTile screen and add custom tiles. Then, by adding custom tiles you can configure them to open any application or web page that you need. For example: Netflix, HBOGo or Steam.

Pro
No systemd

Pro
Runit

Artix actively supports the runit init system known from Void Linux. (Equally besides the OpenRC init system known from Gentoo).

Pro
Close to bare Arch Linux

No learning curve if you're coming from Arch or any of its derivatives.

Pro
Lightweight

Only the software you would need like Terminal emulator, file manager, media player and a browser.

Pro
Compatible with Arch Repositories

It is fully compatible with almost all packages from community, extra, multilib and AUR.

Pro
Rolling distro

Pro
Flexibility

You can have a functional system in less than 10 mins using GUI installer OR you can do it "the Arch way".

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Cons

Con
Expensive

You will need to purchase a Windows license.

Con
Resource Intensive

In contrast to many dedicated solutions which can run on nearly anything, running a full Windows install requires decent hardware. This is not a lightweight solution.

Con
No systemd

Some packages flat out won't work because systemd is non existent, sadly pipewire needs systemd to run. Hopefully Pipewire becomes usable soon. Edit: Pipewire does work but you will have to make a startup script.