I'm considering replacing Windows 10 on my PC with Linux. The computer has 16 GB of RAM, an Nvidia GTX 1660, and an AMD processor. I already use Linux Mint on an older MacBook Air and have had a good experience with it.
My main concerns are whether Elegoo's 3D-printing slicer will work, how to protect or transfer my existing files, and whether my school applications will be compatible. I also occasionally play War Thunder, although I do most of my gaming on a PS5. I suspect the PC may have a minor virus, and since Windows 10 is no longer supported, I'd like recommendations for a suitable Linux distribution and advice on making the switch safely.
2 Answers
There is no single best Linux “version”; these are usually called distributions, or distros. Since Mint already feels familiar, I’d start there, preferably with the Cinnamon or XFCE edition. Download it from the official site, verify the image if possible, make a bootable USB, and test it before installing. You can also keep Windows in a separate partition or drive temporarily if you need a fallback for an application that does not work on Linux.
Linux Mint would be a sensible choice since you already know how it works. Ubuntu, Fedora, or an XFCE-based option such as Xubuntu would also be good. With 16 GB of RAM and a GTX 1660, you should not need an especially lightweight distribution. Try the desktop from a live USB first so you can check graphics, Wi-Fi, sound, and other hardware before installing.
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