I own a ten-year-old computer that originally came with Windows 8.1 and is now running on Windows 10. It's become pretty slow, likely due to its age and the fact that it was designed for 8.1, not for the heavier load of 10. I'm not sure if my computer can handle the Windows 11 upgrade, so I've been looking into alternatives like Linux. Before I make the switch, I'm wondering if it's even worth it. My main concern is whether Linux would run slower and whether I could still use my current programs and games, especially Steam and Minecraft. I've used Ubuntu through WSL in the past, but that's about it. I would also like to know if switching to Linux would keep my previous files safe. If I do decide to go ahead, what version of Linux would you recommend?
4 Answers
Most likely, a fresh install of Windows 11 might be faster than your current setup, but I bet Linux would be even quicker! Just keep in mind that you might not see a huge speed boost if your hardware is the main issue. As for files, it's best to have a backup plan. If you really want to keep your files, consider partitioning the drive so you can access them while installing Linux.
Definitely check what hardware you’re running, especially your GPU. If it's NVIDIA, you might encounter some issues with drivers. For AMD, the experience tends to be smoother. Linux Mint XFCE could be a good choice for your older hardware. But remember to validate if your essential applications run on Linux before diving in.
You should definitely consider going with Linux Mint or Pop!_OS; they're both user-friendly and suitable for your needs! Plus, Linux Mint offers a Windows-like experience, which can make the transition easier. Minecraft runs natively on Linux, so that won’t be a problem! As for Steam games, most should work fine, but make sure your GPU is up to speed for the best compatibility.
Mint for sure!
I'd encourage you to try a Live USB or a virtual machine before fully committing to Linux. It's a good way to get a feel for it. And while Windows 10 isn't technically 'ending,' you can still make the switch to Linux if you're looking for something lighter. Linux should offer better performance on older hardware. Don't forget to check your GPU specs since that might affect your gaming experience on Linux too.
Start with Linux Mint!