# Top 10 IBM i Alternatives & Competitors
**Average Rating:** 4.4/5
**Total Number of Reviews:** 67
If you are considering IBM i, you may also want to investigate similar alternatives or competitors to find the best solution. Other important factors to consider when researching alternatives to IBM i include integration. The best overall IBM i alternative is Linux Mint. Other similar apps like IBM i are Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Ubuntu, Windows 7, and Oracle Linux. IBM i alternatives can be found in [Operating Systems](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system).


## Best Paid & Free Alternatives to IBM i
  - [Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/products/linux-mint/reviews)
  - [Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/red-hat-enterprise-linux/reviews)
  - [Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/ubuntu/reviews)
  - [Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-7/reviews)
  - [Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/oracle-linux/reviews)
  - [Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/products/apple-ios/reviews)
  - [Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-11/reviews)
  - [Android](https://www.g2.com/products/android/reviews)
  - [Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/products/chrome-os/reviews)
  - [Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-8/reviews)

## Top 10 Alternatives to IBM i Recently Reviewed By G2 Community
Browse options below. Based on reviewer data, you can see how IBM i stacks up to the competition, check reviews from current & previous users in industries like Information Technology and Services, Financial Services, and Computer Hardware, and find the best product for your business.


  ### 1. [Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/products/linux-mint/reviews)
By Linux Mark Institute
**Average Rating:** 4.5/5
**Total Reviews:** 189
Linux Mint is a community-driven Linux distribution that aims to provide a modern, elegant, and comfortable operating system that is both powerful and easy to use. Based on Ubuntu and Debian, it offers full multimedia support out of the box and comes bundled with a variety of free and open-source applications. The default desktop environment is Cinnamon, developed by the Linux Mint team, with MATE and Xfce available as alternatives. Linux Mint is available for x86-64 systems. Key Features and Functionality: - User-Friendly Interface: Linux Mint features the Cinnamon desktop environment, which combines modern design with traditional desktop elements, providing an intuitive and familiar user experience. - Comprehensive Software Suite: Pre-installed applications include LibreOffice for office productivity, Firefox for web browsing, Thunderbird for email management, and VLC media player for multimedia playback. - Multimedia Support: Out-of-the-box support for various multimedia formats, including MP3, MP4, and DVD playback, ensuring users can enjoy their media without additional configurations. - Software Management: The Software Manager allows easy installation and management of thousands of applications, while the Update Manager ensures the system remains secure and up-to-date. - Customization and Flexibility: Users can personalize their desktop with various themes, applets, and extensions, tailoring the system to their preferences. Primary Value and User Solutions: Linux Mint addresses the need for a user-friendly and fully functional operating system that caters to both beginners and experienced users. By providing a stable and secure environment with comprehensive multimedia support and a rich set of pre-installed applications, it eliminates the need for extensive post-installation configurations. Its commitment to simplicity and ease of use makes it an ideal choice for those transitioning from other operating systems or seeking a reliable Linux experience.


Reviewers say compared to IBM i, Linux Mint is:
- Easier to set up
- More usable
- Easier to admin
Categories in common with IBM i: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [IBM i vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/ibm-ibm-i-vs-linux-mint)
**Compare Linux Mint with other alternatives:**
- [Linux Mint vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Linux Mint vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-ubuntu)
- [Linux Mint vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-windows-7)
- [Linux Mint vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Linux Mint vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-linux-mint)
- [Linux Mint vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-windows-11)
- [Linux Mint vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-linux-mint)
- [Linux Mint vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-linux-mint)
- [Linux Mint vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-windows-8)

  ### 2. [Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/red-hat-enterprise-linux/reviews)
By Red Hat
**Average Rating:** 4.6/5
**Total Reviews:** 976
Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is a enterprise operating system designed to provide a secure, stable, and high-performance environment for modern IT infrastructures. It supports a wide range of applications across physical, virtual, and cloud environments, making it a versatile choice for businesses of all sizes. Key Features and Functionality: - Security: RHEL offers live kernel patching, security profiles, and adheres to security standards certifications, ensuring a robust defense against vulnerabilities. - Consistent Lifecycle: The operating system follows a predictable lifecycle with three phases: full support, maintenance support, and an extended life phase, providing long-term stability and planning capabilities. - Cloud Integration: RHEL is optimized for cloud environments and collaborates with major cloud providers like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud, facilitating seamless workload migration and management. - Developer Access: Red Hat provides developers with free access to RHEL through the "Red Hat Enterprise Linux for Business Developers" platform, allowing up to 25 instances for development purposes. Primary Value and Solutions: RHEL addresses the need for a reliable and secure operating system that can handle diverse workloads across various environments. Its comprehensive security features mitigate risks, while the consistent lifecycle ensures long-term support and stability. The integration with leading cloud providers simplifies cloud adoption and management, and the provision of free developer access fosters innovation and accelerates application development. Overall, RHEL empowers organizations to build, deploy, and manage applications efficiently, aligning with business demands for production-readiness and operational excellence.


Reviewers say compared to IBM i, Red Hat Enterprise Linux is:
- Better at support
- Easier to do business with
- Better at meeting requirements
Categories in common with IBM i: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [IBM i vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/ibm-ibm-i-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
**Compare Red Hat Enterprise Linux with other alternatives:**
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-ubuntu)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-windows-7)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-windows-11)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-windows-8)

  ### 3. [Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/ubuntu/reviews)
By Canonical Ltd.
**Average Rating:** 4.5/5
**Total Reviews:** 2,395
Super-fast, easy to use and free, the Ubuntu operating system powers millions of desktops, netbooks and servers around the world.


Reviewers say compared to IBM i, Ubuntu is:
- Easier to set up
- Easier to do business with
- Better at meeting requirements
Categories in common with IBM i: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [IBM i vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/ibm-ibm-i-vs-ubuntu)
**Compare Ubuntu with other alternatives:**
- [Ubuntu vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-ubuntu)
- [Ubuntu vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-ubuntu)
- [Ubuntu vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/ubuntu-vs-windows-7)
- [Ubuntu vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-ubuntu)
- [Ubuntu vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-ubuntu)
- [Ubuntu vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/ubuntu-vs-windows-11)
- [Ubuntu vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-ubuntu)
- [Ubuntu vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-ubuntu)
- [Ubuntu vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/ubuntu-vs-windows-8)

  ### 4. [Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-7/reviews)
By Microsoft
**Average Rating:** 4.2/5
**Total Reviews:** 900
Windows 7, released by Microsoft in October 2009, is a desktop operating system designed to enhance user experience and system performance. Building upon its predecessor, Windows Vista, it introduced a more intuitive interface and improved functionality, catering to both home and business users. Key Features and Functionality: - Redesigned Taskbar: The new taskbar allows users to pin applications for quick access and provides live previews of open windows, streamlining navigation. - Aero Snap and Aero Shake: These window management features enable users to easily organize open windows by snapping them to screen edges or minimizing all but the active window with a simple shake gesture. - HomeGroup: Simplifies home networking by allowing users to share files and printers across multiple PCs effortlessly. - Libraries: Aggregates files from various locations into unified views, making it easier to manage documents, music, pictures, and videos. - Improved Performance: Optimized for faster boot times and efficient resource management, Windows 7 delivers a more responsive computing experience. - Enhanced Security: Features like the Action Center provide a centralized location for security and maintenance notifications, while User Account Control (UAC) has been refined to be less intrusive. Primary Value and User Solutions: Windows 7 addresses the shortcomings of previous operating systems by offering a more stable and user-friendly environment. Its enhanced performance and intuitive features reduce system crashes and improve productivity. The streamlined interface and advanced window management tools allow users to multitask more effectively. Additionally, improved networking capabilities simplify the sharing of resources among multiple devices, making it an ideal solution for both personal and professional use.


Reviewers say compared to IBM i, Windows 7 is:
- Slower to reach roi
- Easier to set up
- More usable
Categories in common with IBM i: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [IBM i vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/ibm-ibm-i-vs-windows-7)
**Compare Windows 7 with other alternatives:**
- [Windows 7 vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/ubuntu-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-11-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-7-vs-windows-8)

  ### 5. [Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/oracle-linux/reviews)
By Oracle
**Average Rating:** 4.4/5
**Total Reviews:** 348
Oracle Linux brings the latest Linux innovations to market, delivering extreme performance, advanced scalability, and reliability for enterprise applications and systems along with worldwide, enterprise-class, low-cost support. Optimized for enterprise workloads, Oracle Linux is the only operating system to offer zero-downtime updates.


Categories in common with IBM i: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [IBM i vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/ibm-ibm-i-vs-oracle-linux)
**Compare Oracle Linux with other alternatives:**
- [Oracle Linux vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Oracle Linux vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Oracle Linux vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-ubuntu)
- [Oracle Linux vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-windows-7)
- [Oracle Linux vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Oracle Linux vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-windows-11)
- [Oracle Linux vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Oracle Linux vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Oracle Linux vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-windows-8)

  ### 6. [Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/products/apple-ios/reviews)
By Apple
**Average Rating:** 4.6/5
**Total Reviews:** 1,579
Apple's iOS is a sophisticated mobile operating system that powers the iPhone, offering a seamless and intuitive user experience. With each iteration, iOS introduces innovative features and enhancements that elevate device functionality and user engagement. Key Features and Functionality: - Liquid Glass Design: iOS 26 introduces the Liquid Glass design, characterized by rounded, translucent elements that react dynamically to motion and user inputs, providing a visually engaging interface. - Visual Intelligence: This feature enables users to search, ask questions, and take actions directly with the content displayed on their iPhone screen, enhancing interactivity and efficiency. - Live Translation: Integrated into Messages, FaceTime, and Phone apps, Live Translation facilitates real-time communication across different languages, breaking down language barriers. - Enhanced Messaging: Users can personalize chats with new backgrounds and utilize polls in Messages, enriching the communication experience. - Advanced Privacy Controls: iOS 26 offers new screening tools in Phone, FaceTime, and Messages to help users manage distractions and maintain privacy. - CarPlay Enhancements: The latest update includes Live Activities and Tapbacks in CarPlay, providing more information at a glance and improving in-car connectivity. Primary Value and User Solutions: iOS delivers a cohesive and user-friendly platform that integrates cutting-edge technology with everyday usability. The introduction of the Liquid Glass design and Visual Intelligence in iOS 26 enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the device, making interactions more intuitive. Features like Live Translation and enhanced messaging capabilities address the need for effective and personalized communication. Advanced privacy controls empower users to manage their digital environment, ensuring a secure and distraction-free experience. Overall, iOS continues to set the standard for mobile operating systems by combining innovation with user-centric design.


Reviewers say compared to IBM i, Apple iOS is:
- More usable
- Easier to set up
- Better at support
Categories in common with IBM i: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [IBM i vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-ibm-ibm-i)
**Compare Apple iOS with other alternatives:**
- [Apple iOS vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-linux-mint)
- [Apple iOS vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Apple iOS vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-ubuntu)
- [Apple iOS vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-windows-7)
- [Apple iOS vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Apple iOS vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-windows-11)
- [Apple iOS vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-apple-ios)
- [Apple iOS vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-chrome-os)
- [Apple iOS vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-windows-8)

  ### 7. [Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-11/reviews)
By Microsoft
**Average Rating:** 4.5/5
**Total Reviews:** 4,307
Windows 11 is Microsoft's latest operating system, designed to provide a seamless and intuitive user experience across various devices. With a fresh, modern interface and enhanced performance, Windows 11 aims to boost productivity, creativity, and connectivity for users worldwide. Key Features and Functionality: - Redesigned Start Menu: Centered on the taskbar, the new Start Menu offers a clean layout with customizable sections for favorite apps, enabling quicker access to essential tools. - Snap Assist and Virtual Desktops: Enhance multitasking by organizing open windows into aligned grids and creating personalized desktops for different tasks, such as work, gaming, or personal use. - Integrated Microsoft Teams: Seamlessly connect with friends, family, and colleagues through chat, voice, or video directly from the taskbar, facilitating effortless communication. - Widgets: Stay updated with personalized content and news feeds powered by AI, accessible directly from the desktop. - Gaming Enhancements: Experience immersive gaming with technologies like DirectX 12 Ultimate, DirectStorage for faster load times, and Auto HDR for vivid visuals. - Enhanced Security: Benefit from built-in security features, including biometric logins, encrypted authentication, and advanced antivirus defenses to protect against cyber threats. Primary Value and User Solutions: Windows 11 addresses the evolving needs of users by offering a streamlined interface that simplifies navigation and enhances productivity. Its multitasking capabilities, such as Snap Assist and Virtual Desktops, allow users to manage multiple tasks efficiently. The integration of Microsoft Teams directly into the taskbar ensures seamless communication, while gaming enhancements provide a superior entertainment experience. Additionally, robust security measures safeguard user data, offering peace of mind in an increasingly digital world. Overall, Windows 11 delivers a comprehensive solution that balances functionality, security, and user-friendly design.


Reviewers say compared to IBM i, Windows 11 is:
- Easier to set up
- More usable
- Easier to do business with
Categories in common with IBM i: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [IBM i vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/ibm-ibm-i-vs-windows-11)
**Compare Windows 11 with other alternatives:**
- [Windows 11 vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/ubuntu-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-11-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 11 vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-11-vs-windows-8)

  ### 8. [Android](https://www.g2.com/products/android/reviews)
By Google
**Average Rating:** 4.6/5
**Total Reviews:** 1,280
Android Enterprise Management is a comprehensive solution designed to simplify the deployment, management, and security of Android devices within business environments. It offers a suite of tools that enable organizations to efficiently configure devices, enforce security policies, and manage applications across their workforce. This platform supports various device management scenarios, including employee-owned devices, company-owned devices, and dedicated devices for specific tasks. Key Features and Functionality: - Zero-Touch Enrollment: Facilitates the rapid deployment of devices by allowing them to be configured remotely upon first boot, reducing manual setup time. - Work Profiles: Creates a clear separation between work and personal data on devices, ensuring corporate information remains secure while respecting user privacy. - Managed Google Play: Enables IT administrators to distribute and manage applications efficiently, providing employees with access to approved apps while maintaining control over app installations. - Comprehensive Security Controls: Offers robust security features, including enforcing lock screens, encryption, and the ability to remotely wipe data from lost or stolen devices. - Flexible Management Options: Supports various device management modes, such as fully managed devices for work-only use and dedicated devices locked to specific functions. Primary Value and Solutions Provided: Android Enterprise Management addresses the challenges businesses face in managing a diverse range of Android devices by offering a unified platform that enhances security, streamlines device deployment, and simplifies application management. By leveraging these capabilities, organizations can ensure that their mobile workforce operates efficiently and securely, regardless of device ownership or usage scenarios.


Reviewers say compared to IBM i, Android is:
- More usable
- Easier to set up
- Easier to do business with
Categories in common with IBM i: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [IBM i vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-ibm-ibm-i)
**Compare Android with other alternatives:**
- [Android vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-linux-mint)
- [Android vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Android vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-ubuntu)
- [Android vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-windows-7)
- [Android vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Android vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-apple-ios)
- [Android vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-windows-11)
- [Android vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-chrome-os)
- [Android vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-windows-8)

  ### 9. [Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/products/chrome-os/reviews)
By Google
**Average Rating:** 4.5/5
**Total Reviews:** 732
ChromeOS is a lightweight, cloud-centric operating system developed by Google, designed to provide a fast, secure, and user-friendly computing experience. Built upon the Linux kernel, it primarily utilizes the Google Chrome web browser as its main interface, emphasizing web applications and cloud storage. Since its debut in 2011, ChromeOS has powered a range of devices, including Chromebooks, Chromeboxes, and Chromebits, catering to users seeking simplicity and efficiency in their digital tasks. Key Features and Functionality: - Seamless Integration with Google Services: ChromeOS offers built-in access to Google applications such as Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos, ensuring a cohesive and synchronized user experience across devices. - Support for Android and Linux Applications: Users can install and run a vast array of Android apps from the Google Play Store, as well as Linux applications, expanding the system's versatility and functionality. - Enhanced Security Measures: With features like verified boot, automatic updates, and sandboxing, ChromeOS provides robust protection against malware and security threats, minimizing the need for additional antivirus software. - Optimized Performance and Battery Life: Designed for efficiency, ChromeOS devices typically offer quick boot times and extended battery life, making them ideal for on-the-go usage. - Cloud-Based Storage and Synchronization: Emphasizing cloud storage, ChromeOS ensures that user data is accessible from any device with internet connectivity, promoting flexibility and ease of access. Primary Value and User Solutions: ChromeOS addresses the needs of users seeking a straightforward, secure, and efficient computing platform. Its cloud-centric approach reduces reliance on local storage, facilitating seamless access to files and applications from various devices. The integration with Google services and support for a wide range of applications cater to both productivity and entertainment needs. Additionally, the system's emphasis on security and automatic updates provides peace of mind, particularly for users concerned about online threats. Overall, ChromeOS offers a streamlined and reliable computing experience suitable for students, professionals, and casual users alike.


Reviewers say compared to IBM i, Chrome OS is:
- Easier to set up
- More usable
- Better at support
Categories in common with IBM i: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [IBM i vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-ibm-ibm-i)
**Compare Chrome OS with other alternatives:**
- [Chrome OS vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-linux-mint)
- [Chrome OS vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Chrome OS vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-ubuntu)
- [Chrome OS vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-windows-7)
- [Chrome OS vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Chrome OS vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-chrome-os)
- [Chrome OS vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-windows-11)
- [Chrome OS vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-chrome-os)
- [Chrome OS vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-windows-8)

  ### 10. [Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-8/reviews)
By Microsoft
**Average Rating:** 3.7/5
**Total Reviews:** 580
Windows 8 is an operating system developed by Microsoft, released in October 2012, designed to provide a modern and dynamic user experience across various devices, including desktops, laptops, and tablets. It introduced a new user interface with live tiles, offering real-time updates and a more interactive experience. The system also featured the Windows Store, enabling users to download and install a wide range of applications. Key Features and Functionality: - Modern User Interface: Incorporates live tiles that display real-time information, enhancing user engagement. - Windows Store: Provides access to a vast array of applications, facilitating easy download and installation. - Enhanced Connectivity: Improved networking technologies and power management for better connectivity and device availability. - Touch and Gesture Support: Optimized for touch-enabled devices, offering a more natural and intuitive user experience. - App Packaging and Deployment: Enables developers to produce, consume, or interact with app packages, streamlining the development process. Primary Value and User Solutions: Windows 8 aimed to bridge the gap between traditional computing and the growing demand for mobile and touch-enabled devices. By introducing a unified interface and enhancing app accessibility through the Windows Store, it provided users with a versatile platform suitable for both work and entertainment. The system's focus on connectivity and power efficiency addressed the needs of modern users seeking seamless integration across multiple devices.


Reviewers say compared to IBM i, Windows 8 is:
- Slower to reach roi
Categories in common with IBM i: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [IBM i vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/ibm-ibm-i-vs-windows-8)
**Compare Windows 8 with other alternatives:**
- [Windows 8 vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/ubuntu-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-7-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-11-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-windows-8)


---
## IBM i Alternatives FAQs

### How does IBM i compare to Linux Mint?

According to G2 data, [IBM i](https://www.g2.com/products/ibm-ibm-i/reviews) and [Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/products/linux-mint/reviews) have comparable overall user satisfaction, with IBM i rated at 4.4/5 from 67 reviews and Linux Mint slightly higher at 4.5/5 from 189 reviews. Linux Mint leads IBM i by 0.4 points in Usability (9.0 vs 8.6) and by 0.7 points in Ease of Setup (9.2 vs 8.5), reflecting its beginner-friendly, intuitive GUI and faster initial setup. IBM i scores higher in Ease of Doing Business With (8.5 vs 8.2) and Better at Support (8.4 vs 8.3), indicating stronger vendor support and business engagement. Both platforms share an equal score in Meeting Requirements (8.9). User sentiment highlights IBM i's exceptional reliability, stability, and integrated security features, praised in 8, 4, and 4 reviews respectively, making it ideal for mission-critical enterprise workloads. Conversely, Linux Mint is favored for its user-friendliness, lightweight design, and strong community support, with 11, 7, and 6 mentions respectively. IBM i's main challenges include a steep learning curve, outdated interface, and higher costs, while Linux Mint users note occasional driver issues, limited proprietary software availability, and slower update cycles. IBM i excels in integrated database management and enterprise-grade security, whereas Linux Mint offers a free, open-source, and resource-efficient environment suitable for desktops and older hardware.



### Why do users choose Linux Mint over IBM i?

Users choose [Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/products/linux-mint/reviews) over IBM i primarily for its superior ease of setup and usability, with Linux Mint scoring 9.2 and 9.0 respectively compared to IBM i's 8.5 and 8.6. Linux Mint's beginner-friendly, Windows-like Cinnamon desktop environment and out-of-the-box readiness appeal to users seeking a fast, stable, and intuitive operating system without steep learning curves. Its lightweight nature allows it to run efficiently on older or low-resource hardware, making it a cost-effective choice for personal and professional desktops. Additionally, Linux Mint's open-source model and large community support provide accessible assistance and frequent updates, enhancing user confidence. The platform's free licensing eliminates cost barriers associated with IBM i's higher licensing and hardware expenses. Users also appreciate Linux Mint's control over system updates, avoiding forced reboots and intrusive telemetry common in other OSes. These factors collectively drive preference for Linux Mint among users prioritizing ease of use, cost-efficiency, and flexibility in desktop environments.



### What are the best alternatives to IBM i?

According to G2 data, the best alternatives to IBM i in the Operating System category include [Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/products/linux-mint/reviews) (4.5/5 stars, 189 reviews), [Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/red-hat-enterprise-linux/reviews) (4.6/5 stars, 975 reviews), and [Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/ubuntu/reviews) (4.5/5 stars, 2393 reviews). These alternatives are highly rated for their stability, ease of use, and extensive community support. Other notable alternatives include Windows 7, Oracle Linux, iOS, Windows 11, Android, Chrome OS, and Windows 8, each offering distinct advantages in usability, support, and ecosystem integration.



### Which Operating System tools do reviewers recommend instead of IBM i?

Reviewers recommend alternatives such as [Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/products/linux-mint/reviews) for its user-friendly interface, stability, and ease of administration; [Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/red-hat-enterprise-linux/reviews) for its enterprise-grade stability, security features, and long-term support; and [Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/ubuntu/reviews) for its balance of simplicity, developer-friendliness, and extensive software ecosystem. Additionally, [Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-11/reviews), [Android](https://www.g2.com/products/android/reviews), and [Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/products/chrome-os/reviews) are recommended for their modern interfaces, ease of setup, and broad application support. These alternatives are noted for being easier to administer, more usable, and better at meeting requirements compared to IBM i, according to G2 user reviews.




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