I use Linux personally for web hosting and do use cPanel and don't pay for, technically free but is included with the server monthly price.

Windows is easier, and usually the price of 'Windows License' if you order a server or vps are usually costs...$32+ or 15$ for VPS - Windows is about $15 for VPS and $25 for Windows. If it's an RDP and you don't pay for it, I guess you're fine.

I guess what it comes to as to preference.

Linux with cPanel - Easy
Linux without cPanel - Slightly harder for a non linux user, might have to hire someone.

Windows with any control panel - Might have to hire someone.
Windows with WAMP or other variations - Easy (or might hire someone)
Windows manually - Might have to hire someone.