Windows 8 is a step backwards in ease of use for users. I would say that Windows XP is probably Microsoft's highest point in developing an OS that was easy for people to use. Windows 7 isn't that far behind.
However, Linux kind of works on a continuous uptrend of usability. As the years go by, things that used to be difficult are now trivial. There are some things that are easier to set up in Linux than in Windows now. With Windows 8.1 being a shitty step backwards and Windows 10 being another gamble in the wrong direction, we could see some serious increased amounts of adoption rates.
I keep touting that the SteamOS is going to be the next big thing towards making Linux the ultimate solution as gaming is the only real reason not to use Linux at this point.
SteamOS is Debian with steam installed, and you could still access the desktop last I checked. That also doesn't mean you can still play all steam games on SteamOS at this point. It's a niche thing, and you can use the same steam interface on windows if you like, along with have native compatibility for windows games. Most of the pc games worth playing are on windows, and wine is a hot mess when you can get it to work. You can play some older games on emulators like dosbox, or scummvm too, however they all have their problems.
SteamOS is not the miracle you're making it out to be.
