I'm new to Linux and have only dabbled a bit with Ubuntu on WSL2, which I abandoned due to issues with the live server extension in VS Code. I'm looking for a good Linux distribution for a complete beginner, ideally one that's suitable for frontend development. I plan to switch to backend development in the future, so I'm open to options. I've been considering jumping straight into Debian or Arch to challenge myself, but I'm not sure if that's wise. I will be dual-booting with Windows and I'm thinking about installing Linux on a 256GB or 512GB SSD, possibly a 1TB if I find a spare one.
2 Answers
For something truly beginner-friendly, check out Linux Mint or Zorin OS. They're both very stable and come with a user-friendly interface. Many swear by them for being ideal first distros. You might also want to try out Ubuntu variations like Xubuntu or Lubuntu; they all work well for development tasks. Just a heads up, while Arch is a powerful distro, it’s more complex and not as beginner-friendly as some others. Why not get comfortable with a simpler one first?
I recommend starting with Fedora or Pop!_OS. They offer a great user experience right out of the box, especially for beginners looking to do frontend development. Plus, they keep up with the latest software updates which is great for web development tools.
Thanks for the insight! Is switching from Mint to Arch straightforward, or does it require a complete reinstallation?