Android vs Linux | Top Differences Between Android and Linux

Android vs Linux, which fares better on key parameters? Let’s find out through an elaborate comparison between the two. The idea is to help you choose the best OS to suit your individual needs.

When it comes to Android vs Linux, both have a considerable share in the Operating System market. Linux is used on a wide range of platforms and constitutes the bulk of a community-based configuration. It is a unitary operating system, meaning it operates entirely from the kernel. Android, on the other hand, works in an open-source ecosystem designed specifically for cellphones and tabs. Android is important for mobile devices but it is only a foundation that sits on the top of the Linux kernel.

Difference Between Android and Linux

Let’s take an in-depth look at Linux vs Android to help you understand better for educated decisions. We’ll be discussing each OS separately with its pros and cons.

What is Android?

Android Operating System was built by a developer firm, Open Handset Alliance, which was later taken over by Google. The OS is built on a modified Kernel and other open-source apps. It was created with touchscreen portable devices in mind, such as tabs and mobile smartphones. The languages used to build it include C++, Java, C, and more. Google launched the basic version of Android in the year 2008. It is free and the most popular OS out there.

It is a fully accessible tool that allows developers from all over the globe to participate in the development process. In comparison to other operating systems, Android OS is simple to operate and well-supported by the majority of gadgets globally.

Features of Android

Below are the features of Android OS to help you understand the Android vs Linux comparison.

• Near Field Communication (NFC)

NFC, which allows electrical gadgets to communicate across small distances, is supported by the majority of Android devices.

• Alternative keyboards

Multiple keyboards are offered by Android, and each is easily installable. The SwiftKey, 8pen, Skype, and other applications allow you to rapidly switch up your keyboard type. Other mobile operating systems either do not accept supplemental keyboards at all or the process of installation and using them is too time-intensive and complex.

• Infrared transmission

You may use your tablet or smartphone as a remote control with the Android’s built-in infrared transmitter. Other OS might not allow you the luxury.

• No-touch control

Users can operate their phones without touching them using Android applications like Wave Control. Need to switch off the screen or change the soundtrack but your hands are smudged? It’s possible with Android. This is a useful feature, especially if you are driving because it allows you to maintain your eyes on the road.

• Wireless application downloads

Android OS makes it easy to download an application on your PC and have it synced to your phone via the Android Market or third-party applications like AppBrain. It’s easy and quick.

• Storage and battery swapping

Android phones have their own set of physical features. Google’s operating system includes removing and updating your battery or replacing an obsolete one. Additionally, Android smartphones provide extensive storage, thanks to the SD card slots.

• Custom home screens

It is feasible to jailbreak certain smartphones to personalize the home screen, and Android has this out-of-the-box feature. You can add gestures, additional icons, and even speed optimizations for aging smartphones using a third-party launcher like Nova, Slide, and Apex.

• Widgets

Apps are useful, but there are times when you just need information without having to spend time opening an application. Widgets on Android allow you to show almost any feature you want on your home screens, such as weather apps, music widgets, or productivity tools that notify you of upcoming appointments or obligations.

• Customs ROM

Android OS is open-source, meaning you have the option to modify the present OS to your specifications and requirements. As a user, you are free to download and install the new, customized version, which might come with added features or different visual elements. Odds are high that a feature you require in the OS might be already available.

Advantages of Android

When it comes to Linux vs Android OS comparison, knowing the advantages of Android is useful.

• It is customizable and can transform into anything.
• Any new app can be published without being reviewed.
• It offers an open platform to developers.
• The Android OS is cost-effective.
• It has easy access to the Android application market.

Disadvantages of Android

• Applications may contain viruses.
• It has a high gadget fragmentation.
• Fake and low-security applications can be installed, which gather your information without your knowledge.
• It has a complex layout, which makes it difficult to perform the coding.

What is Linux?

Linux is one of the most widely used operating systems on the planet. When Linux was first announced in 1991, it had a similar impact on the public and most individuals were thrilled. The OS was designed to provide users with a free open-source system that could be used for a variety of purposes. Because Linux came out before Ubuntu, it was difficult for it to get into the industry at the time because Microsoft had complete dominance of the industry. Although Linux was not as well-known as Microsoft, it was created in such a way that it became a direct rival.

Linux is a general term for Unix-like operating systems. Linux can be loaded on almost every gadget. Video game systems, computers, servers, embedded devices, and tablets all utilize Linux. At the time, Linux was a popular OS and it drew even more recognition following the debut of its Ubuntu version. It is the most extensively supported OS in the market, running on almost all computer systems. The OS has also grown in prominence as a result of its user-friendly layout, which makes it simple to use. This was a crucial factor in Linux’s ability to keep its consumers pleased and content. Linux, too, offers free services and is available in a customized version.

Features of Linux

To get a better understanding of the Android vs Linux comparison, you should understand the features of Linux first.

• Multi-user capabilities – Multiple individuals can share system resources like RAM, hard drive, and so on. However, they must work on distinct interfaces.
• Portability – This signifies that it can work with different hardware.
• Security – It secures data in three ways: authentication (by allocating passwords and login IDs), authorization (by granting reading, writing, and execution permissions), and encryption (transforming a file into a format that is not readable).
• File system – It can provide a hierarchy of files systems in which the files are arranged.
• Open Source – Linux is available in a free mode and is accessible for community-based development projects.
• App support – It includes its own software library where users may install and run a variety of programs.

Advantages of Linux

1. It is an open-source operating system, which allows programmers to create their own customized OS.
2. It provides you with a variety of applications with various characteristics from which to pick based on your requirements.
3. Installing Linux involves zero cost. And, you may install it on numerous desktops without paying a single penny.
4. It is a trouble-free OS that doesn’t cause viruses, spyware, or system slowdown.
5. A worldwide development group is looking at numerous methods to improve its security, so it is very safe and strong, and one doesn’t need to scan it regularly with an anti-virus program.

Disadvantages of Linux

1. Various Windows programs are unable to function on Linux.
2. The peripheral hardware drivers selection is restricted.
3. Many Internet service providers don’t support Linux.
4. There is a scarcity of commercial software for Linux.
5. Very few games are available on this OS.

Key Differences Between Android and Linux

Finally, let’s figure out the differences between Linux and Android.

1. Android is an open-source operating system currently owned by Google, whereas Linux is the kernel developed by Linus Torvalds.
2. Linux is designed for desktops and laptops whereas Android is designed for smartphones and Internet devices.
3. Android makes use of its own C library, Bionic whereas Linux distributions make use of GNU C.
4. Android is a customized version of the Linux kernel that includes specific libraries and APIs for communicating with mobile networks and supporting apps that may be used by phone models from any vendor.
5. Linux does not accept any virtual machine for execution. On the other hand, Android utilizes the Dalvik Virtual Machine to execute its applications.

Android vs Linux: Head to Head Comparison

Conclusion

So, this was all that you needed to know about Android vs Linux. When it comes to choosing between the two, it has to be an each-to-his-own proposition. Both the operating systems are considered a marvel in their respective fields and perform exceedingly well. It is up to you to decide which one to choose based on your requirements and expectations.

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