I've been dabbling in Linux for a while, and I want to dive back in. Here's what I'm aiming for: I want to dual boot with Windows 11 on separate drives using an Intel and Nvidia desktop, since I can't switch to AMD right now. I'm a big fan of KDE as my desktop environment and would rather not deal with snapd, although I'm fine with flatpaks and systemd, even though I've noticed some hate for systemd out there. Stability is key for me—I'd like a system that doesn't break every time I install patches. Recovery tools like snapshots and Timeshift are a must. I'm also unsure about the x11 vs Wayland debate, but I do plan on using multiple monitors (including one with HDR if possible) and want to explore video editing with Kdenlive and Davinci Resolve. Am I setting my sights too high or what? Any advice would be appreciated!
5 Answers
Knoppix is another great option—it's based on Debian and has a lot of recovery tools built in. Plus, it's easy to try out without installing it on your drive.
Debian could be a perfect fit for you! It’s pretty stable and works well with KDE, plus it has a strong community backing. Lots of users have had success with it in a dual-boot setup with Windows.
Yeah, I was thinking the same thing! It's nice to get a second opinion.
Have you checked out the distro selection page in the Linux4Noobs wiki? It's a great resource! Just remember to take regular backups and maybe experiment with a VM before making any big changes.
CachyOS has been great for me! It’s Arch-based and offers lots of customization right away, and I’ve had no major issues with updates. Just be cautious with frequent updates and check for notices in their community before updating, especially for NVIDIA support and HDR. It might fit your requirements perfectly!
The more you learn about Linux, the pickier you tend to get. Beginners might not worry too much, but as you dive deeper, you’ll definitely develop preferences. I recommend Debian Trixie, Fedora, or even Nobara if you're looking for something stable yet modern.
I haven't heard of Knoppix! I'll definitely explore it more.