I'm fed up with Windows installing updates without my consent and making them difficult to remove, so I'm seriously considering switching to Linux. I need a distribution that works well with Steam and the games I play, while also supporting Blender and Unreal Engine. I'm not sure whether I should replace Windows entirely or set up a dual-boot system, and I'd appreciate guidance through the installation process. My computer has an AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 processor with Radeon 880M graphics, 32 GB of RAM, and a 1 TB drive. I'm also considering testing Linux on an older laptop first so I can get comfortable before changing my main computer.
4 Answers
Before choosing a distribution, check whether your specific games work through Steam Play or Proton. Linux gaming has improved a lot, but compatibility varies, especially for games with certain anti-cheat systems. Blender generally works well, while Unreal Engine may require extra setup or a container. If gaming is your main priority, keep Windows available until you’ve tested everything you use.
The general process is to download the distribution’s ISO, write it to a USB drive with a tool such as Rufus, boot the computer from that USB, and use the live session to test hardware, graphics, Wi-Fi, and the desktop. If everything works, launch the installer. For dual booting, shrink the Windows partition from within Windows first, leave unallocated space, and make absolutely sure you select the correct drive during installation. Read the official installation guide for the distribution you choose rather than relying only on a generic tutorial.
I’d avoid making your first Linux installation a complicated dual boot on your main drive. Back up your important files, create a Windows installation USB using Microsoft’s official tool, and keep that available in case you need to recover. If possible, install Linux on a separate SSD. That way, a mistake won’t erase your Windows installation, and you can replace or reformat the Linux drive if needed. Testing on your older laptop first is also a smart plan.
For beginner-friendly options, Linux Mint tends to feel familiar to Windows users, while Ubuntu has a large amount of documentation and community support. CachyOS and Bazzite are more gaming-focused and offer newer software, but they may be less straightforward if you’re completely new. You don’t have to make a permanent choice right away—try a few distributions from a live USB and see which desktop feels most comfortable.
I was considering Ubuntu, but I’ll compare it with Mint, CachyOS, and Bazzite before deciding. I tend to overthink the choices, so trying them first should help.
I only have a few small 32 GB drives right now, but I’m going to get another drive and test the distributions on my old laptop before touching my main PC.