Hey everyone! I'm gearing up to build a new gaming PC this coming month, and I'm really eager to dive into Linux. I want to move away from Windows due to some ethical issues I have with Microsoft. However, I'm a bit overwhelmed by the sheer variety of Linux options out there, so I'm hoping to get some guidance. I'm decent with tech but could really use some direction on where to start and what Linux version to pick. Also, if you have suggestions for alternatives to OneDrive, Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint that aren't Google or Apple products, that would be fantastic. Thanks a bunch!
5 Answers
Make sure to avoid brand new hardware. It's better to stick with components that were released at least six months ago, as Linux developers need time to update drivers for new hardware. If you want to skip this hassle, consider using a rolling release like Arch or Tumbleweed to always have the latest updates.
Debian is the way to go! It’s stable and reliable, perfect for what you're planning to do.
Honestly, if you're building, now might not be the best time. I’d suggest considering a prebuilt system with a Ryzen chip like the 395+. It has 96 GB of VRAM, which is pretty impressive for $2000, and Linux works great for running all kinds of stuff locally, especially AI applications.
Check out the YouTube channel 'Explaining Computers'! They have some great content on Linux, including how to install it and which distribution to choose. For a beginner, I recommend trying Linux Mint; they even have a dedicated video about it!
Happy building! My best tip for hardware is to steer clear of Nvidia if you plan to use Linux. AMD and Intel are solid bets. You might want to look into brands like System76, Starlabs, or Tuxedo for Linux-friendly builds. As for distributions, I'd suggest Ultramarine Linux, Nobara, or Pop OS. Most distributions can easily install apps like LibreOffice and Steam for your needs. Enjoy the process!
Thanks for the tips on alternatives! I'll look into those options!
Thanks for the recommendation! I'll definitely check out their videos!