I'm considering switching from Windows to Linux, primarily because I'm starting to dislike Microsoft. I have a Lenovo Legion Pro 5 laptop and want to know if I can make the switch on it without any issues from the firmware or Lenovo software. Also, can I perform the switch using just my laptop, or do I need another computer? I have a few apps that I rely on, like Firefox, Steam, the Nvidia application, Obsidian, Discord, GOG Galaxy, the X-Air Edit for my Behringer audio interface, and VLC Media Player. Are these compatible with Linux? Additionally, I play some games like Overwatch 2 and Fortnite, and I've heard that anti-cheat software could be an issue—how significant is this? Finally, what Linux distro would you recommend for someone who's somewhat tech-savvy and eager to learn? Here are my laptop specs: Operating system - Microsoft Windows 11 Home, AMD Ryzen 7 5800H CPU, 16 GB RAM, and an RTX 3050 Ti GPU.
1 Answer
You should be good with your Lenovo laptop! The firmware and software shouldn’t be a barrier to switching to Linux. Just to clarify, if you’re looking to play those multiplayer games with friends, like Overwatch 2 and Fortnite, I recommend dual-booting with Windows. Those games can have kernel-level anti-cheat that won't work on Linux at all. As for your list of apps, everything except the Nvidia app is available on Linux. The Nvidia drivers can be tricky, but distributions like Pop!_OS come with them out of the box and are great for gaming. GOG games can be played using the Heroic launcher, and most others on your list should work as well! For a distro, Mint or Fedora is a solid start.
Overwatch 2 does have some compatibility on Linux, but it really depends on how much your friends are into it. If you're mostly playing casually, I’d say your concern should mainly be around the multiplayer anticheat games. If those are essential, dual-booting is likely your best option.