European Alternatives to Microsoft Windows
Microsoft's operating system powering the majority of PCs worldwide. Integrates Copilot (AI), Windows Recall and extensive telemetry.
Microsoft Windows Features
- Windows graphical interface
- Microsoft Store
- Copilot (integrated AI)
- Windows Recall (AI screenshot capture)
- DirectX for gaming
- Extensive software compatibility
- Extensive telemetry
Price: OEM ~100-145€ / Pro ~259€ / Included with most PCs
Why leave Microsoft Windows?
- Microsoft collects between 23,000 and 25,000 types of telemetry events on user activity
- Windows Recall captures screenshots every 3 seconds including passwords, banking data and private messages
- The Netherlands banned Microsoft 365 in education for GDPR non-compliance
- Recall is enabled by default on Copilot+ PCs, data is stored in plain text via OCR
- Microsoft is subject to the CLOUD Act: US authorities can demand access to user data
Recommended : Linux Mint
Irish Linux distribution ideal for users coming from Windows. Familiar Cinnamon interface, very stable and without any telemetry.
Country : IE
Compatibility Scores
- Migration : 70/100
- GDPR : 100/100
- Features : 75/100
- Overall Score : 83/100
Linux Mint Features
- Windows-style Cinnamon interface
- No telemetry or data collection
- Built-in software manager
- LibreOffice pre-installed
- Non-intrusive updates
- Long-term support (LTS)
- Wine compatible for Windows apps
Price: Free (open source)
Why this choice?
Linux Mint is the ideal distribution for Windows users. Its Cinnamon interface is immediately familiar, and most users never look back. Zero telemetry, free, and developed in Ireland.
Switch from Microsoft Windows to Linux Mint
Strengths
- No telemetry or data collection (vs 25,000 Windows events)
- Free (vs Windows license ~145€)
- Familiar Windows-style Cinnamon interface
- No ads, Copilot or Recall
- Non-intrusive updates you control
Weaknesses
- Some software unavailable (Adobe Creative Suite, native Microsoft Office, specific business software)
- Gaming: requires Steam/Proton, some titles with anti-cheat (Valorant, Fortnite) incompatible
All Alternatives
- Linux Mint (IE) — Score : 83/100 (Recommended)
- Zorin OS (IE) — Score : 82/100
- Ubuntu (GB) — Score : 79/100