Installation on new SSD depends on your system type—Linux or Windows.
Installation on new SSD depends on your system type—Linux or Windows.
Cinnamon works much like Windows 7 in terms of functionality. Installing games and programs with Mint should be straightforward, as both aim for a smooth user experience.
I have no problems with game performance; I can play most games at full speed if needed. My main concern is how slow the operating system is when installing updates or during that process. I often have to wait about ten minutes while the OS completes its tasks before I can start using it.
For a smooth experience, Windows remains the top choice. Different distributions offer varying levels of ease, though none match the feel of a traditional Windows setup. If you're undecided, consider setting up a Linux VM using Linux Mint or Ubuntu. The advantage is having two operating systems available to switch between. Regarding storage, prices have dropped significantly—back in 2011 I spent $250 on a 120GB SSD, whereas today you can find a 1TB SSD for around $150.
I suggest installing a few different distributions, such as Kubuntu, Mint Cinnamon, Elementary, and testing them in a live USB. Spend some time exploring each one to see what suits you. The most likely outcome is discovering something new that fits better, or realizing it doesn’t work out and returning to Windows.
I recently purchased a new SSD, which is why some might think you need an upgrade. Windows consumes a lot of power and can slow things down, so I wanted to avoid that.