I'm really frustrated with Windows 11 due to its constant issues, bloatware, and potential spyware. Recently, I encountered a major problem after an update that rendered my keyboard and mouse useless, even though they work in BIOS and recovery mode. Once I fix this, I want to switch to a Linux distro that's friendly for beginners. I tried Linux Mint briefly when troubleshooting via a USB, and it worked seamlessly (keyboard and mouse worked perfectly). I primarily use my PC for gaming, so I'd appreciate recommendations! Also, can I transfer my current Windows 11 files and apps to a Linux distro without accessing Windows 11, considering my current issues? Thanks in advance!
4 Answers
If you liked Mint, you might also want to consider Zorin OS or Elementary OS. They are also beginner-friendly and built on Ubuntu, making them generally easy to troubleshoot. Voyager OS is another option that comes loaded with features. If you have the chance, test them out using a USB stick with Ventoy, so you can see which one feels right for you!
Definitely go for Mint Cinnamon to get started—it’s great for beginners and easy to use! Personally, I’ve found it runs smoothly with very few hiccups. Just make sure to check out ProtonDB for gaming compatibility before you dive in, as it can help you figure out if your games will run well on Linux.
Before making the switch, it’s smart to familiarize yourself with the package manager and app store in Linux. Many new users immediately go online to download software, but it's typically much smoother to install apps through the package manager instead. This saves you from potential issues down the road.
Linux Mint is a solid choice, especially if you’re new to Linux! It's user-friendly and works well for gaming, particularly with indie titles. Just remember, you won't be able to transfer your Windows apps directly because they don't run on Linux, but you can access and copy your files if your Windows partition isn’t encrypted. Try using a live USB to access them without needing to boot into Windows. Also, Linux is a bit different from Windows—it'll take some adjusting, but many find it worth it!

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