I'm looking to switch from Windows to Linux and need advice on choosing the right distribution. Initially, I was interested in using Garuda with the Hyprland desktop because I love how customizable it is, but I've realized there might be compatibility issues. My main focus is functionality for game development with Godot, music production with FL Studio (which I read can be run with Wine), 3D modeling in Blender, gaming through Steam (using Proton), and communication on Discord. Also, I need suggestions for a reliable PDF reader/editor. I'm okay with a different desktop experience than Windows as long as it works smoothly. I've had enough of Windows after upgrading to Windows 11, which increased my RAM usage, so I want to fully commit to Linux without a Windows partition. Customization is key for me since I loved modifying the taskbar and folders in Windows 7. Any distro recommendations that fit these needs?
1 Answer
If you're transitioning to Linux, I recommend giving a few distros a spin in a virtual machine. It’s a great way to see which UI you prefer without any commitment. For your needs, consider Linux Mint or Pop!_OS—they're user-friendly and usually have good support for gaming and creative software. Mint feels quite familiar for Windows users, which might lessen the learning curve. Just remember to check if you can easily get the Nvidia drivers if you're using them.
How much RAM do you think I need for running a virtual machine smoothly? I've never used one before.