Computers are cheap. Set up a computer for each different type of application that you want hosted. Pick an OS that supports those apps for THAT computer. You don't require your phone to be able to run the same apps that run on your desktop/laptop. And, are probably comfortable with that distinction -- the phone has qualities that are different (and worthwhile) from the other options. Note that you don't have to run ANY "current" software -- if you are willing to live with existing "bugs" and don't expose the machine to The Internet (which would suggest the need for a contemporary OS at the "current" patch level). I run W7 x64 on most of my workstations -- simply because the quality of the tools hosted there far exceeds what's available on any FOSS OS (or Mac). I do 3D CAD, CGI-style animations, music synthesis, electronic circuit modeling and design, etc. I'm not keen on wasting hours/days of my time to POTENTIALLY save thousands of dollars. But, I have a large budget for tools and am not trying to save money with "free" ones (there is a cost to even free tools -- especially if they make your task harder!) OTOH, I use FOSS tools for software development -- largely because I can fix/enhance them when/if I stumble on a problem. E.g., it would be hard for me to modify Microsoft's compiler to support different semantics that the language doesn't support. Also, they tend to be widely accepted so I don't have to coerce people to adopting some proprietary toolchain just because it happened to be what I was using. Likewise, I use FOSS tools for network infrastructure. Again, because I can modify them to fit my needs without waiting for some "support" group to decide that my needs are worth addressing (and HOPING that they do so correctly and in the manner I envision). E.g., my DHCP server is more featureful than the "stock" offerings. I use SPARCs for tools hosted there. As well as providing a means of testing the portability of the code I develop. I use a PSP as a handheld game console. And, real "arcade pieces" for a REAL gaming experience. I have a ~200TB SAN that hosts my VMs (as well as my archive) and several ESXi servers so I can run legacy apps without having to keep a "Windows 95" PC around. Or, an app that worked differently under XP than W7 (and that I would need to keep around in order to make changes to some previous "work") If you live in a small apartment, it might be difficult to find spaces for all of these things. But, the computer aspect should be easily addressed with a few rescued laptops and some sweat equity installing a specific OS (and applications) on each.
Most widely used operating systems offer command-line features, with Android especially featuring numerous terminal emulator tools. While not essential for everyday use, familiarity can simplify tasks occasionally. Android runs proprietary spyware on devices sold through official channels, making it harder to control what data is collected. Disabling location, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth settings doesn’t stop third-party apps from using them. Removing Google apps and the Play Store doesn’t eliminate the constant surveillance code embedded in nearby devices. Rooting an Android phone and eliminating these services won’t fully remove the hidden spyware. Apple devices behave similarly, even functioning as AirTags when powered off. There’s no known open-source firmware that truly protects privacy for Apple users, despite their claims. These companies constantly negotiate deals to gather user data, maximizing ad revenue through detailed profiles. This situation overlooks the real health risks involved, as wireless technology continues to generate significant profits while people remain unaware of the hidden surveillance.
I believe you're jumping ahead a bit here. The first question should be: What do you aim to achieve in Linux? Since you're familiar with the software you use on Windows, you need to understand what you want from Linux as well. Then consider aspects like whether to run a virtual machine, which OS is best for bare metal, and whether a full Linux GUI is necessary or if WSL would suffice. You should outline your Linux needs and have a general sense of how crucial each requirement is—like prioritizing high frame rates for gaming versus minimizing data sent to brokers. Once you have a ranked list, the answers to the questions will become clearer.