Linux, Ubuntu, Pop—choose your operating system!
Linux, Ubuntu, Pop—choose your operating system!
I'd go with Ubuntu first, though you should expect tough driver issues with NVIDIA.
Setting up the driver is actually simpler than many think. The main problem remains the driver not functioning correctly.
Setting up NVIDIA drivers on Ubuntu is generally straightforward. Start by navigating to "Software Sources" and then select "Additional Drivers" or visit NVIDIA’s official site to download the appropriate drivers, installing them via the terminal. After installation, the most common problem is that the drivers may not function correctly, often causing issues during login.
When you want maximum performance from your graphics card, using the built-in drivers from AMD or nVidia works perfectly.
I’m going to suggest Pop!_OS because it feels more reliable and straightforward. The absence of Ubuntu’s customizations really enhances the experience. If you want a familiar desktop environment, Pop!_OS is still a solid choice after installing it via terminal and updating with 'sudo apt install ubuntu-desktop'. Once logged in, you can adjust settings by clicking the gear icon and selecting Ubuntu options. Just be mindful that some additional software may be installed automatically. I wouldn’t recommend Ubuntu overall since it tends to come with unnecessary bloatware, though the minimal version does offer useful tools. The Pop!_Shop generally provides decent software, with only a few less-than-ideal choices.
You don't need to stress too much about the distribution; choose one with a large user base for easier support. Most recommend beginning with Ubuntu (or a Ubuntu-based system), as its community is friendly to newcomers. PS: If you have an nVidia graphics card, opt for xorg instead of Wayland for official drivers.