No need to change completely—Linux is flexible and can adapt to your requirements.
No need to change completely—Linux is flexible and can adapt to your requirements.
I've used Linux intermittently for a while now, but Windows keeps bothering me so much that I'm considering a full switch. My system has 6GB RAM, an i3-6157U processor at 2.4GHz, 128GB SSD and a 1TB HDD. All my personal files are stored on the HDD. Can I install Linux in a way that keeps my files there while also making it the default for music, videos, documents, but still saves programs to the SSD? I do light video editing with Premiere Pro, browse the web, use Unity occasionally for small projects and casual games. My main concern is managing files and video editing since Premiere Pro isn't available on Linux. I'm already somewhat comfortable with it.
I consider dual booting the optimal choice until Linux meets all your requirements. Windows remains available as a backup, mainly for software that isn’t accessible on Linux yet.
Install Linux on your SSD just like you would with Windows; then create symlinks from your home directory to the HDD folders, such as linking /hdd/mount/point/Pictures to ~/Pictures. This ensures files saved in Pictures appear on the HDD. For data safety, make a backup before proceeding, since issues can arise during installation and OS setup. This process is fully manageable on Linux, and you can use kdenlive for video editing.
The solution is straightforward. It varies based on your actions and your readiness to study again.
I've been using Linux for about three years now. Until recently, I kept a Windows machine on my gaming PC for Witcher 3, but since I'm away from home on campus, my Linux laptop has been my main system for the past three years. It handles all my schoolwork and entertainment needs. I use it for Java programming, MySQL databases, R/Matlab/Maple for stats, calculus, differential equations, Steam for gaming, and Chromium for streaming. At first, I tried to stick with Linux to avoid gaming addiction, but it didn't work because many of my Steam games run smoothly on Linux, and I sometimes use Windows games via Wine.