Considering a Switch from Windows to Linux: Your Thoughts?

1. I'd recommend going for a Live USB for both. It's a neat way to compare without installing anything—just check out Ventoy for a straightforward setup.
2. In general, Linux handles drivers well, but always test them out. NVIDIA users, watch out for potential hurdles with the latest drivers!
3. Media keys should function on Linux too, although the behavior might vary slightly from Windows. If a key doesn't work, you can usually set up shortcuts in your desktop environment like KDE.
4. Most likely, you won't have any issues with those keys if you switch back.

Honestly, both Mint and Zorin are great. Both are really polished and user-friendly.

When it comes to drivers and key functions, yes—most of the time, your special keys will work right out of the box. If you have a high-tech keyboard with specific software, just reset it to factory settings before the switch. For any extra features, keep in mind that you might need to reinstall them if you go back to Windows.

If you're debating between those two, I’d say go with Mint. It's got a larger user base and great compatibility with Ubuntu.

All your keyboard features should work immediately, and during the installation process, you'll get all the drivers sorted, including GPU ones. If you ever switch to different hardware, reinstalling drivers is pretty straightforward. Welcome to the Linux family!

You can't really go wrong with either Mint or Zorin—they're both solid choices for newcomers! I suggest trying them out using a Live USB to see which desktop environment you prefer. Mint offers Cinnamon, while Zorin uses a modified version of Gnome.

As for drivers, Linux comes with a lot built into the kernel, but you should definitely test your hardware first, like audio and WiFi, to make sure everything works. There are rare cases where manufacturers don’t provide Linux drivers, so testing is key!

Regarding your multimedia keys, they should work just fine unless they need specific Windows software. My experience has been that most common functions work across both OSes without an issue.

Mint seems to be the more favored option, but Zorin is doing a good job emulating the Windows experience if that's what you're after.

Also, if gaming is a priority for you, check out PikaOS as a gaming-focused alternative to Mint. It comes pre-installed with a ton of gaming software, which might save you some hassle!