Considering a Switch to Linux – What Should I Know?

Definitely, running a distro on your actual hardware will provide much better performance than a VM. I highly recommend trying out Bazzite instead of Mint. It comes with modern features and pre-installed Nvidia drivers, making it a smoother experience. It also runs Windows games well if that's a priority for you. Otherwise, for a more straightforward experience without gaming needs, consider Aurora.

I switched to Zorin OS, and it made my transition easier. It offers good alternatives for common Windows software. I play games through Steam on Linux without missing Windows at all. The main takeaway is that while Linux can be different, with the right distro and alternatives, you can have a productive experience.

Don't underestimate the transition from Windows applications to their Linux alternatives. While the OS might feel similar enough, the real challenge is replacing software like Photoshop or MS Office with GIMP and LibreOffice. It's vital to get comfortable with the replacements before you make the switch full-time - this will save you a lot of headaches later.

Before fully committing, keep in mind that you'll be adjusting to a new workflow with Linux. There will be changes in how you use software and potentially miss some features from Windows apps. Overall, any of the popular distros should work for you, but prepare for some adjustment.