I'm looking to switch from Windows 11 to Linux, and I want to make sure my plan is well thought out before I take the plunge. Here are my main priorities: I plan to use Linux for gaming (around 40%, utilizing Steam and Proton on my NVIDIA RTX 4070 Super), development (Python, Arduino, Node.js, VS Code), productivity tasks, and some video editing (ideally using DaVinci Resolve). I also prefer a window management style like auto-tiling or something similar to Hyprland. One important point is that I'm steering clear of Fedora-based distros because I've faced compatibility issues with my hardware.
Here's a bit about my setup:
- Ryzen CPU
- RTX 4070 Super
- 32 GB RAM
- Main SSD: 2 TB (I'm currently using about 86% of it for games and videos)
- Windows 11 installed.
Now, here's the plan I'm considering:
1. Clear around 150-200 GB on my main SSD by moving my Steam library and videos to a second drive.
2. Disable Windows Fast Startup and Secure Boot in the BIOS.
3. Install Linux in a dual-boot setup.
4. Choose between Pop!_OS (which is great for NVIDIA support and has built-in auto-tiling), Manjaro KDE (a stable rolling release with good NVIDIA integration), or Garuda Hyprland (the best for gaming and tiling, though it may need NVIDIA tweaks).
5. Configure Steam, Proton-GE, Lutris, GameMode, and MangoHUD.
6. Attempt to run DaVinci Resolve with makeresolvedeb (if I choose Pop) or AUR packages (if I go with Manjaro/Garuda).
7. Keep Windows for games or software that won't run on Linux.
Does this plan sound sensible? Any changes you would suggest? I'm especially keen on hearing from anyone using NVIDIA 40-series graphics cards or those who use Hyprland with NVIDIA.
4 Answers
Heads up - you can't really have a 'stable rolling release'. It's either one or the other. Many are moving away from Manjaro due to some reliability concerns, so keep that in mind when choosing your distro.
I’d say go for Pop!_OS. It’s user-friendly and supports tiling window managers like Hyprland fairly well, but be prepared for a bit of a learning curve. Tiling can take some getting used to!
If you’re new to Linux, avoid using a rolling release like Manjaro unless you're comfortable troubleshooting. Try sticking with a more stable distro to make life easier. Mint is a solid choice too, if you’re looking for something robust.
Good point! I did some playing around on a Raspberry Pi before, so I’m somewhat familiar, but I’m definitely still learning.
Consider using the Cosmic desktop environment on Pop!_OS. It looks great and is very intuitive for users transitioning from Windows.
Definitely! Cosmic does look nice and smooth.
Yeah, I can relate! My old setup was similar, and it took me a bit to adjust but it’s worth it.