Open alternatives8
Open-source apps that replace Microsoft Windows and macOS

Bazzite is a free Linux operating system for PCs, built on Fedora, that you install in place of Windows or another system. It is aimed at people who want a Linux desktop that works well for gaming, including on Steam Deck-style handhelds and living-room PCs.

Linux Mint is a free desktop operating system for laptops and computers, designed to work out of the box with the apps most people need. It is aimed especially at people switching from Windows or trying Linux for the first time.

Fedora is a free Linux operating system that runs on computers and servers, with several versions for desktops, servers and cloud use. It is aimed at people who want a community-built alternative to Windows or macOS.

Ubuntu is a Linux operating system that runs on desktop computers, servers and cloud systems. It is made by Canonical and aimed at developers, businesses and home users who want a free, open alternative to Windows or macOS.

Debian is a free operating system, the software that runs a computer and its programs. It is meant for people who want an open alternative to commercial operating systems.

Arch Linux is a lightweight Linux operating system that lets experienced users choose and set up every part of their computer. It is aimed at people who want a simple, flexible base and are comfortable doing their own setup.

CachyOS is a free Linux operating system for computers, built on Arch Linux and tuned to run faster. It is aimed at people who want a speedy desktop with an easy installer and a choice of desktop environments.

Pop!_OS is a free Linux operating system that runs on computers and aims to be secure and easy to customize. It is made for people who want a productive desktop, including those who buy System76 hardware.
What's missing
What people still miss here, and wish existed. Upvote what matters to you.
Before you build
Planning something for computer operating systems? See what exists first, so you can reuse parts or explain what's different. Paste this into any AI assistant:
Fix the list itself
A project or closed app missing from this list, or a mistake on it? These open a short form on GitHub, and a mod reviews it. To say what a project can't do, use What's missing.
About this page
Replaces fully means it does the main job of these apps; Replaces partly means it covers some of it.
Licenses: every project here uses an open-source license (what each one means). Open core means some parts are paid or under another license.
GitHub stars are shown for reference. They measure popularity, not whether it replaces anything.
Verified means r/TrueOpenSource mods checked it: open-source license, maintained, and it really does the job.
How Open Source Everything works