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ReactOS vs Windows 98

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

ReactOS icon
ReactOS
Windows 98 icon
Windows 98

ReactOS vs Windows 98: The Verdict

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature ReactOS Windows 98
Sugggest Score — —
Category Os & Utilities Os & Utilities
Pricing Open Source Freemium

Product Overview

ReactOS
ReactOS

Description: ReactOS is an open-source operating system that aims to be binary-compatible with Windows applications and drivers. It provides a Windows-like desktop environment and functionality for users looking for a free and open alternative to commercial Windows operating systems.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Windows 98
Windows 98

Description: Windows 98 was a major release of the Windows operating system by Microsoft, launched in 1998. It was designed to be an incremental upgrade to Windows 95, focused on increased stability and improved Internet integration.

Type: software

Pricing: Freemium

Key Features Comparison

ReactOS
ReactOS Features
  • Windows NT architecture
  • Supports Windows drivers and applications
  • File systems support (FAT, NTFS, EXT2/3)
  • Networking stack
  • Partial Win32 API support
Windows 98
Windows 98 Features
  • Improved USB support
  • Internet Explorer 5.0 web browser
  • Windows Driver Model for improved device driver support
  • Windows Desktop Update for Internet integration
  • Support for new FAT32 file system

Pros & Cons Analysis

ReactOS
ReactOS
Pros
  • Free and open source
  • Provides a Windows-like experience
  • Runs many Windows apps natively
  • Active development community
Cons
  • Limited hardware support
  • Not all Windows APIs implemented
  • Stability and compatibility issues
  • Lacks many modern features
Windows 98
Windows 98
Pros
  • More stable than Windows 95
  • Better plug and play support
  • Faster networking and Internet capabilities
  • Support for new hardware like DVD drives and USB devices
Cons
  • Some older hardware incompatible
  • Security vulnerabilities
  • Frequent crashes and blue screen errors
  • Quickly replaced by Windows ME and Windows 2000

Pricing Comparison

ReactOS
ReactOS
  • Open Source
Windows 98
Windows 98
  • Freemium

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Learn More About Each Product

ReactOS
ReactOS
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Windows 98
Windows 98
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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