After 30 years using Linux, I have only 4 complaints – and 2 send me back to my MacBook
After 30 years using Linux, I have only 4 complaints – and 2 send me back to my MacBook
https://www.zdnet.com/article/after-30-years-using-linux-i-have-few-complaints/
Publish Date: 2026-06-08 13:41:00
Source Domain: www.zdnet.com
Jack Wallen/ZDNET
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ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Linux has been my default OS for decades.
- Although it’s been an amazing journey, it’s not always perfect.
- Here are a few gripes I still have about the open-source OS.
Since 1997, my experience with Linux has been nearly all positive. It’s very rare for me to run into an issue, and when I do, it’s usually easy to resolve. I’ve used Linux for desktops, laptops, tablets, phones, servers, and just about everything you can imagine.
But that doesn’t mean everything has been perfect. Linux has a few lingering issues. In some cases, those issues have improved but have yet to be fully resolved.
Also: After 30 years with Linux, I gave Windows 11 a chance – and found 9 clear problems
Two of the issues below have caused me recurring problems over the years; I even once had to say goodbye to one of my favorite distributions, Bodhi Linux, because of sound issues. One issue is merely a matter of taste (but it really bothers me).
Enough with the setup; let’s get to the issues.
1. Audio recording can be glitchy
This is probably the issue that has plagued me more than any other. Given that I work with a lot of audio and video, I’ve had to struggle with sound issues on Linux for years. Now, I’m not talking about average sound usage here. Nearly all Linux distributions are straight-up plug-and-play when you want to listen to your favorite tunes on Spotify.
It’s when you dive into the world of recording sound that things can get frustrating. From stuttering, dropping out, or simply not playing, sound can be problematic. Years ago, I had a side gig as an audiobook narrator, and Audacity on Linux gave me fits trying to get it to work with any regularity. I would have to restart the system and jump through all sorts of hoops.
Also: I’m a creator and my new favorite Linux distro is multimedia perfection – here’s why
Fast forward to last year, when I went to record another audiobook, and the same…
