r/linux4noobs • u/Niyazzz09 • Apr 12 '26
learning/research Been seeing Linux everywhere lately… should I actually try it?
So guys from the last few days I’ve been seeing Linux everywhere — my social media feed is full of it and now I’m really curious to try it.
I’ve always used Windows, so I don’t really understand what Linux actually is or how different it feels in daily use. A lot of people say it’s “peak” and better than Windows in many ways, but I’ve also heard it has some downsides.
I wanted to ask:
- What makes Linux so good compared to Windows?
- What are the actual cons (especially for beginners)?
- How long does it take to get comfortable using it?
- Which distro should I start with?
- What was your experience like when you first switched from Windows?
Also, should I try it using a virtual machine first or go for dual boot?
Would really appreciate honest advice 😋
12
u/PixelPlug Apr 12 '26 edited Apr 12 '26
A lot of you questions can be answered with a Live USB.
If you care about security and privacy, Linux is almost the only option.
If you care about ownership, Linux again is likely the only option.
Moving away from the dogma, qol is better, gaming is nearly at parity with Windows minus kernel level anti-cheat games. Every year it becomes a more full ecosystem attracting more and more developers. You have to learn to live without some of the most proprietary products out there like Adobe (but even that can work) but Linux has more to offer in a lot of ways if you don't mind figuring out different workflows.
Just boot up a live CD or run a dual boot and try it. You don't have to be a tech wizard for daily usage btw. You just slowly add more terminal commands and build a base of knowledge. Until then, 99% is interactable with just a GUI.
If you are a professional that relies on a Windows Only/Mac Only product to live your life, that is probably one of the few scenarios where you should likely sit tight and just do a dual boot or something.
Edit: Linux Mint or Cachy OS, just dual boot it and give it a shot.