How can I try Linux Mint without losing Windows?

A virtual machine is another option: you install a program such as QEMU with Virt-Manager inside Linux, then run Windows in a window as a guest operating system. This avoids repartitioning and is convenient for occasional Windows-only applications, but it needs enough RAM, storage, and processor power. For demanding games or graphics-heavy software, dual-booting usually gives better performance.

A separate physical drive is convenient but not required. The important parts are backing up the EFI boot partition and personal files, understanding that both systems will use the laptop’s UEFI boot setup, and avoiding unnecessary changes to the Windows partition. Some people eventually remove Windows after finding Linux replacements, but there’s no need to do that until you’re certain you no longer need it.

If you’re especially cautious, make a complete Clonezilla-style image of the current Windows drive and verify that the backup can actually be restored. You can also test Linux first from a live USB before installing it. Once you’re comfortable, shrink the Windows partition from Windows itself and install Mint in the unallocated space rather than deleting the Windows partitions.

Dual-booting Windows and Linux from separate partitions on the same drive is common and usually works fine. Before changing anything, make a verified full backup or disk image so you can restore the laptop if something goes wrong. It’s also wise to keep a Linux live USB available for repairing boot issues. Linux can normally read files stored on Windows NTFS partitions, so your personal data won’t be inaccessible just because you install Mint.