The notion of “The Year of the Linux Desktop” has often been joked about, but in reality, Linux has been steadily growing as a viable alternative to Windows and macOS. Both in terms of user numbers and market share, Linux has never been more popular.
Recent data shows a decline in market share for Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS, while Linux has been on a consistent upward trajectory. StatCounter’s latest desktop market share report for July 2024 reveals this trend clearly.
Linux has been gradually increasing its market presence for years, and as of July, it holds 4.44 percent of the global desktop market. If this growth continues, Linux could surpass the 5 percent mark by early 2025.
Tom’s Hardware highlights that the rise in Linux users can be partially attributed to the success of the Steam Deck, which became a gaming market sensation in 2022. While the Steam Deck isn’t overt about its Linux foundation, Valve’s SteamOS, which powers it, is built on Linux, much like the earlier Steam Machines.
Windows remains the dominant platform for PC gaming, but SteamOS is quickly gaining ground, as evidenced by Valve’s user surveys. Valve isn’t stopping there; recent updates and interviews suggest they’re developing SteamOS versions for other gaming handhelds, including the Asus ROG Ally.
Additionally, many desktop and laptop users are increasingly frustrated with Windows. Microsoft’s aggressive push to upgrade Windows 10 users to Windows 11, coupled with intrusive ads, bloatware “AI” features, and nudges toward subscription services, isn’t doing the company any favors.
This shift is further influenced by the growing number of users who rely on mobile devices for internet access, as well as younger generations who have little interest in traditional PCs.
With the relative decline of PCs in the consumer market, Linux is emerging as a more significant part of the conversation, even as the total number of Linux users continues to rise.
