In the ever-evolving world of integrated graphics, AMD’s RDNA 3.5 architecture has set new standards. But the burning question remains: which operating system—Windows 11 or Ubuntu 25.04—truly unleashes its full potential? Let’s dive into the benchmarks and user experiences to uncover the answer.
The Contenders: Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6
Our testbed is the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6, equipped with the AMD Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360 processor and Radeon 880M RDNA 3.5 integrated graphics. This powerhouse boasts 32GB of LPDDR5-7500 memory, providing an ideal platform for our performance showdown.
Benchmarking the Titans
Before transitioning from the pre-installed Windows 11 Pro, comprehensive graphics benchmarks were conducted. Subsequently, the system was loaded with Ubuntu 25.04 beta, featuring the Linux 6.14 kernel and Mesa 25.0—offering a cutting-edge graphics stack. The goal? To pit the open-source AMD graphics drivers against their Windows counterparts.
Performance Face-Off: Windows 11 vs. Ubuntu 25.04
In the realm of Unvanquished, a cross-platform FPS game, Ubuntu 25.04 showcased a remarkable edge, outperforming Windows 11 by 8% to 36%. This suggests that, at least in specific gaming scenarios, Ubuntu’s open-source drivers can hold their ground against Windows’ proprietary counterparts.
However, it’s essential to note that performance can vary across different applications and workloads. While Ubuntu shines in certain areas, Windows 11 may still lead in others, particularly where software optimization favors the Windows platform.
User Experiences: The Human Element
Beyond benchmarks, real-world user experiences offer invaluable insights. A ThinkPad enthusiast shared that Ubuntu setup was seamless, with Wi-Fi functioning out of the box, contrasting with a more cumbersome Windows setup that required manual driver installations. Such anecdotes highlight Ubuntu’s growing user-friendliness and hardware compatibility.
The Verdict: A Matter of Preference
While benchmarks provide a snapshot, the choice between Windows 11 and Ubuntu 25.04 for AMD RDNA 3.5 graphics ultimately hinges on individual needs. Gamers might lean towards Ubuntu for specific titles, whereas professionals reliant on Windows-centric applications may prefer Microsoft’s OS.
FAQs
Q: Is Ubuntu 25.04 compatible with all applications I use on Windows 11?
A: Not all. While Ubuntu supports many applications, some Windows-specific software may not have direct Linux counterparts. Tools like Wine or virtual machines can bridge this gap, but compatibility varies.
Q: How does battery life compare between the two operating systems on the ThinkPad T14s Gen 6?
A: User reports suggest that battery performance is comparable, though individual experiences may vary based on usage patterns and system configurations.
Q: Are there any known issues with AMD RDNA 3.5 graphics on either OS?
A: Both operating systems have shown robust support for AMD RDNA 3.5 graphics. However, as with any new hardware, occasional driver updates and patches are released to address emerging issues.
Q: Can I dual-boot Windows 11 and Ubuntu 25.04 on the ThinkPad T14s Gen 6?
A: Absolutely! Dual-booting allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds. Ensure you allocate sufficient disk space and follow partitioning guidelines during installation.
Q: Which OS offers better security features?
A: Both Windows 11 and Ubuntu 25.04 prioritize security. Ubuntu’s open-source nature allows for rapid identification and patching of vulnerabilities, while Windows 11 offers robust built-in security tools.
Q: How often are driver updates released for AMD RDNA 3.5 graphics?
A: AMD periodically releases driver updates for both Windows and Linux platforms. It’s advisable to check for updates regularly to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
In the end, whether you choose Windows 11 or Ubuntu 25.04, the AMD RDNA 3.5 graphics promise a compelling experience. Your decision should align with your specific use cases, software requirements, and personal preferences.
