There's no running macOS outside of an actual Mac computer, though, unless you're comfortable jumping through the technical hoops required to create a Hackintosh (Opens in a new window). You can also create a Linux partition on a Windows PC and boot to that when the need arises. For example, you can run Windows on a Mac inside a virtual machine or dual-boot using Boot Camp (if you have an Intel-based Mac). Windows and macOS are generally the most powerful in terms of hardware and software selection as well as interface conveniences and utilities, while Chrome OS is more lightweight and runs on inexpensive hardware.īut why run just one operating system? What if you need to run software that's only compatible with a particular operating system (usually Windows or macOS)? Multiboot setups and virtualization software can let you run more than one operating system on your computer. Four come from commercial tech giants, while one, the Linux-based Ubuntu, is a free and open-source option. That's not a huge number, but these operating systems differ distinctly in strengths and weaknesses. The five OSes included here are your most viable options. You don’t have a great many choices when it comes to your computer's operating system, but the choice that you make can have wide-ranging consequences. Read our editorial mission (Opens in a new window) & see how we test (Opens in a new window). Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions. How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication.How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac.How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files.How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill.How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad.

How to Block Robotexts and Spam Messages.

Google chrome dark mode mac os