Considering a move to Linux because of problems with Windows 11, but I still want more details.
Considering a move to Linux because of problems with Windows 11, but I still want more details.
Here are some key points about your setup and questions:
Your system includes a Ryzen 7 processor, decent RAM, a mid-range GPU, and solid storage options. After a year of using Windows 11, you're feeling frustrated with performance issues and privacy concerns. You're considering switching to Linux for better control and customization, especially since you use it for gaming, video editing, and programming. You're open to learning the layout and design aspects, and have already backed up important data.
For your questions:
- **Linux distro:** Lightweight options like Lubuntu, Xubuntu, or even a minimal Fedora can work well for gaming and development.
- **Virtual machines:** If you need VMs, consider lightweight distributions such as Ubuntu LTS or Debian with a minimal setup.
- **WINE:** It allows Windows apps to run on Linux; it may not be perfect for all games but is useful for compatibility.
- **GPU handling:** You’ll likely need to use DDU (Direct3D to USB) or similar tools to emulate your GPU if you want to run Windows games. Alternatively, some distros support running Windows apps via virtualization.
- **Extra tips:** Look for beginner-friendly tutorials on YouTube or Linux forums like Reddit’s r/linux or Stack Overflow.
Let me know if you want specific recommendations for a distro or help setting up VMs!
Linux Mint, Pop_OS!, HoloISO are popular options for newcomers and gamers. DDU stands for Display Driver Uninstall, meaning you won’t need to perform it. However, playing games on Linux is generally less smooth than on Windows, so I recommend dual booting (running both OSes together on a single machine or drive). You can also disable telemetry in Windows using various utilities. I’ve gathered many of these solutions in my guide (first link). O&OShutUp is a tool that effectively blocks over 95% of telemetry in Windows. ChrisTitusTech’s PowerShell script is another effective method for significantly enhancing performance on Windows.
For those with a technical background, explore ArchLinux (or similar variants). As a developer, thorough documentation will be invaluable.
Considering your concerns, dual-booting might not be ideal due to storage limitations, especially with large files like 4K footage. You’ve found most games on ProtonDB are high-quality and compatible, even if performance is slightly lower. I understand your preference for smoother productivity tools like Davinci Resolve and are happy to work around the 80% compatibility rule. Regarding Windows, it’s manageable with a VM occasionally. As for Microsoft, your frustration is valid and reflects a growing concern about their business practices.
Man, virtual machines are just a shortcut. They can consume the same memory as native installation. You can block Windows Update Center updates with tools like WinAeroTweaker, UWT, or ChrisTitusTech's script. Using utilities such as CCleaner or jumping from Windows 10 to 11 messes with the registry. I stick with Windows 2004 and avoid updates unless necessary. My PC handles critical settings without help. If updates are required, I’ll handle them myself. Avoid generic setups like vanilla Ubuntu—Canonical isn’t great, and their approach has downsides. You can find more insights on YT about The Linux Experiment. Personally, Pop_OS is a solid alternative. It offers good gaming performance and compatibility with Ubuntu features. Plus, it uses flatpaks instead of slow snapshots. Or consider Linux Mint, KDE Neon, or HoloISO—especially if you’re using an AMD GPU.
I usually suggest Pop! or Fedora these days. Fedora's KDE version could match what you expect from Windows, and you can tweak it quite a bit either way.
Ubuntu fully supported yet LTS edition is available. Right now it's 22.04, not the latest because it caused issues for me. CodeBlocks for C++ is really good, and you can use Visual Studio Code since it runs natively. For compilers, MinGW-64w seems suitable, but test them in Windows first to see how they perform. DaVinci Resolve runs smoothly on Linux, so no worries there. Regarding PC gaming, GOG typically recommends Ubuntu for compatible titles: https://docs.gog.com/linux-guidelines/ Steam games vary. For instance, Portal 2 works well but Portal 1 doesn’t. Also, be aware that most third-party non-free sites offer binaries in DEB or RPM formats, though DEB is more common. It’s not a major problem, but if you prefer to get software directly from the official source (like downloading Opera from the site and installing it), Ubuntu offers a safer option. I had a poor experience with POP!_OS; the latest version with its large bottom panel looks unpleasant, and the Software Center often crashed, along with other apps. I’d avoid it until the next update.
Choose Ubuntu, PopOS, or Fedora based on your preference for appearance. Just note that these systems won't support AMDGPU by default; you must add ROCm and OpenCL to enable GPU features.