I'm considering making the switch to Linux, and I've heard that Linux Mint might be a great option for beginners like me. I know very little about coding, but I'm a bit of a tech nerd overall. I'm mainly looking for something safer and faster than Windows since I'm fed up with how limited I feel with optimizing or controlling the services on it. I've managed to uninstall Windows Defender and Edge, but it seems like every time I turn around, I have to jump through hoops to get rid of other apps or run simple commands in CMD.
I'm curious about the pros and cons of using Linux, especially regarding compatibility with .exe files, emulators, and games. I do play single-player games and RTS with no anti-cheat involved. Given my experience with Windows, would you suggest I try Linux, or is it better for me to stick with Windows? Also, are there any particular Linux distros that are newbie-friendly? I use OBS and game quite a bit, study as well, so I want to make sure I'd still be able to do all that.
3 Answers
Starting with Linux Mint is a solid choice for a newbie! It's user-friendly and doesn't require coding knowledge, so you'll be able to dive right in. You can also try running many Windows applications using tools like WINE or Proton, especially for games, but compatibility can vary depending on the app. Just a heads up, .exe files won't run natively, so you'll need these emulators to use them. If you're into gaming or emulation, there are great tools available like RetroArch for retro games.
Kubuntu is another great choice — it's solid for new users as well. Linux Mint is commonly favored among beginners, but I've found Kubuntu to be quite user-friendly. Either way, you want to choose a distribution that's well-supported and easy to navigate. Just remember, the jump to Linux might be daunting at first, but you'll feel empowered as you learn!
I think I'll stick with Mint, but I'll keep that in mind!
I've been using Linux Mint as my main OS for a while now, and I love it! The customization options, easy software management, and freedom from Windows updates are huge pluses. Just be prepared for a bit more patience while you learn how to navigate everything, but don't worry! You'll get used to it. If you're looking for a smooth transition, Mint is designed for users like you.
Thanks for the suggestion! I’ll check out both distributions!