I've been using Windows for most of my life but I'm feeling uneasy about the direction Windows 11 is taking, so I'm considering switching to Linux. I have a 2020 Lenovo Legion 5i and I'm curious about a few things:
1. For my laptop, switching between hybrid and discrete GPU modes currently requires a restart. Will that still function the same way in Linux?
2. How do I decide on the best desktop environment for my needs, and what are the options available?
3. Aside from OpenOffice, what are some good alternatives for document editing software?
4. Since I have a GTX 1650, is switching worth it from a gaming perspective, or will the performance be too impacted by any translation layers?
5. Can I run older games like Road Rash and NFS Porsche through Wine, especially since they struggle on Windows 11?
6. What's the deal with Wayland? I don't fully understand it, but are there any settings or recommendations for Nvidia GPUs?
7. Is it possible to run any .exe files using Wine or Proton? I have some installation files from old CDs that I'd like to use.
Thanks in advance for any help!
2 Answers
1. Most mainstream Linux distributions do support hybrid GPU switching, but results can vary based on the specific distro you choose. You might have to test it out with your setup.
2. It mostly depends on your personal taste! I recommend trying out different environments like GNOME, KDE, or XFCE. You can find them in Ubuntu or Fedora variants.
3. LibreOffice is widely used and included in most distros. Microsoft 365 online is also a viable option for light document editing.
4. If gaming is a big deal for you, keep in mind that performance might not be as good as on Windows, especially with less resource-intensive games. Just test it out and see how those older games perform!
5. It really depends on the game, but many older titles run well through Wine or Proton. Check compatibility on ProtonDB to get insights into specific games.
1. Yes, if you're using an Intel/Nvidia GPU combo, you should be able to switch GPU modes without restarting, often using the Intel GPU by default.
2. Choose based on what feels right! I personally prefer GNOME on laptops for its simplicity.
3. Besides LibreOffice, you can check out OnlyOffice or Google Docs for document editing.
4. Honestly, if you're into current-gen gaming, you might want to stick with Windows for the best experience. But for older games, Linux can work just fine!
5. Yes, many old titles can run on Wine. Just test them out, and if they don’t work at first, adjust the settings or libraries as needed!
What about gaming newer titles? Is compatibility an issue?