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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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Looking to Switch // Which Distro? (lemmy.ca)

submitted 1 week ago by intenseStargazer@lemmy.ca to c/linux@lemmy.ml

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Decided to ask here because I feel I'd be grilled on Reddit or anywhere else for this.

With data leaks, security concerns, and Microsoft's spaghetti coding I really think it's time for me to make the switch to Linux.

I will preface that I am used to SteamOS and KDE Plasma on my Steam Deck and love the functionality. It's very intuitive for someone who isn't prone to using a terminal, but I know a general understanding of when to use it and how to not brick my device.

I'm switching due to the security concerns of Windows 11, annoyances I'm sure we've all had, and looking for that hands-on experience for my new personal computer.

I'm going to be building a new gaming PC soon and I'm looking for a number of variables to note, warnings, and suggestions of:

1. What distro to use that is as customizable as KDE, safe, and intuitive. Or should I stick with it? Any common issues with it or a recommendation?
1. What games will I need to say goodbye to? I know many games using anticheat won't always work but I understand how Proton and Wine can help for workarounds, I've used some to run Roblox and Rust before on the Deck.
1. Will I need to replace parts? Maybe a stupid question, but still gotta know.
1. Is it worth switching for the games I play or is it better to dual-boot/VM?
1. Any other warnings that may stray me away from Linux (so that I can research and not fall into lol)
1. Tips on applications for workarounds.

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[–] thanksforallthefish@literature.cafe 6 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago)

OK, in broad terms you want a distro that is reasonably up to date, but doesn't have to be bleeding edge.

I run Mint Cinnamon and Arch KDE for the limited gaming I do, they both work perfectly fine.

Almost all games that have a Linux port will have the support & requirements specified for Ubuntu, which has a KDE flavour, however most people won't recommend Ubuntu (for good reasons). An Ubuntu derivative with the issues removed however is a decent choice: Mint or PopOS.

Mint is by a long way the most recommended Linux distro for beginners and for good reason - the install process is easy, the community is supportive, and it does pretty much everything straight out of the box.

Cinnamon desktop environment is customisable, not as much as KDE. If you're really keen on sticking with KDE then either EndeavourOS (which is basically a bundling of Arch so it's easy to install) or KDE Plasma - which is Debian based but more up to date than Sid I believe.

I don't recommend Arch for beginners unless you're highly technical and willing to RTFM.

Most windows games will work in linux via proton/wine etc. ~~You're~~ Your only really blocked ones are the couple of companies that insist on kernel anti-cheat and are anti-Linux (EA I think ?) it's a handful of AAA games that are locked out.

Generally you don't need any hardware changes nowadays, in fact it's often the other way around - stuff that W10 & 11 no longer support can often be made to work on linux. AMD & Intel GPUs are less troublesome than Nvidia, but it's generally not a big deal anymore.

Reddit's /r/linuxgaming has fairly reasonable people (for reddit) and a fairly deep archive that will allow you to search for the specific games you most play, and ways to get them running.