I'm completely new to Linux and want to replace Windows on my laptop because I don't have any important files stored on it. I'll mainly use the computer for schoolwork, web browsing, streaming videos, and light gaming such as Roblox—not demanding high-FPS games. I'm looking for something stable, beginner-friendly, and straightforward to install and maintain. Linux Mint Cinnamon seems to be recommended often, but I'm not sure whether it's the best option for my hardware. I'd also like to know how practical Roblox is on Linux currently. My laptop has an 11th-generation Intel Core i5-1135G7, 8 GB of RAM, and integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics.
5 Answers
Fedora Workstation or Fedora KDE are also good options. Fedora tends to provide newer software and works nicely on modern Intel laptops, while KDE offers a more traditional desktop layout. With 8 GB of RAM, either should be fine, although Mint may feel less intimidating for a first installation.
Linux Mint Cinnamon would be a very sensible first choice. It has a familiar desktop, good hardware support, and plenty of beginner documentation. Your Intel processor and integrated graphics should work well with it. Before wiping Windows, create a live USB and test Wi-Fi, sound, the touchpad, display brightness, and sleep mode. Also make a backup of anything you might need later.
If you want to learn Linux rather than just install it and forget about it, a beginner command-line guide can help a lot. You don’t need to memorize commands before starting, though—most everyday school and browsing tasks can be handled through the graphical interface.
Roblox is the part that needs the most caution. Linux does not have official native Roblox support, and compatibility can change when Roblox updates its security or anti-cheat system. Sober is one commonly used Linux option and can be installed through Flathub, but you should verify that it currently works for the specific Roblox experiences you want to play. Steam games generally have better support through Proton, while launchers outside Steam may need tools such as Lutris or Heroic.
Your laptop is more than capable of handling a lightweight Linux desktop and casual games. Xubuntu is another simple choice if you want something especially lightweight, but I’d start with Mint Cinnamon unless you have a specific reason to choose something else.
Those specifications are in a comfortable middle ground—not particularly old, but not demanding either—so Mint, Fedora, or Debian with a desktop such as KDE should all run well.