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# Why do people still use Amiga?

Published in Retrocomputing Enthusiasts 2 mins read

People continue to use Amiga computers primarily for their lightweight and efficient operating system, the absence of modern system "bloat," and a dedicated community that fosters ongoing software development.

The Enduring Appeal of the Amiga Platform

Decades after its commercial peak, the Amiga maintains a loyal following, appreciated for distinct advantages that set it apart from contemporary computing environments.

  • Exceptional Efficiency and Minimalist Design

    • Low Resource Footprint: AmigaOS is highly optimized, requiring a remarkably low memory footprint and consuming minimal CPU cycles. This efficiency ensures that the system remains exceptionally responsive, even on older hardware.
    • Absence of "Bloat": A significant draw for users is the Amiga's streamlined nature. It lacks the perceived "bloat" or unnecessary features often associated with modern operating systems, offering a clean, direct user experience.
  • Active Software Ecosystem

    • Modern OS Support: For users running AmigaOS 3.1 and later, there's a surprising wealth of applications. The community actively contributes to a growing library of open-source and shareware programs, keeping the platform versatile for various tasks.
    • Variety of Applications: This continued software development ensures access to everything from productivity tools and utilities to classic and newly developed games, catering to diverse user needs.
  • Dedicated Community and User Preference

    • Passion for the Platform: Many users "love their Amigas" for reasons spanning nostalgia, an appreciation for its innovative legacy, and the satisfaction of engaging with a unique, user-controllable computing environment.
    • Preservation and Innovation: This passionate community actively preserves Amiga history, develops new hardware expansions, and even ports modern concepts to the platform, reinforcing its enduring relevance.

Key Reasons for Continued Amiga Use

Feature/Aspect Benefit for Users
Efficiency Low memory footprint, minimal CPU cycles
Simplicity No "bloat" or unnecessary system overhead
Software Access Many open-source and shareware apps for OS 3.1+
Community Passionate users, ongoing support and development