[–] sakuramboo 0 points 2 points 2 points (+2|-0) ago
The best distro is which ever works best for you. We can't answer that, only you can.
The best thing to do is try several distributions and then decide what works best for you. For whatever reason, some distributions don't work great out of the box with every configuration.
If you want to know which distributions to TRY, I can suggest:
Manjaro
LXLE
PCLinuxOS
Zorin
If you aren't willing to play with multiple distributions I would say just use LXLE since in my experience it's stable and reliable but as everyone is saying YMMV.
[–] Newmemba 1 point -1 points 0 points (+0|-1) ago
If you are not too stupid, use the original Linux. It is called Debian, all others are derivatives with a few exceptions (Ubuntu and Mint are not one of those) Also forget about the dual boot nonsense, just load Debian. Forget about the rest until you have a damn good reason to look for something else.( I can't imagine what that might be)
[–] conestoga_dragon ago (edited ago)
I use Lubuntu (ubuntu with LXDE) on an 8 year old HP laptop. Works like a champ and boots in under 60 seconds using the original spinning disk.
I have a bunch of disconnected thoughts
distrowatch.com
Trisquel if you are very strict about freedom. You might need to change a wireless card or other hardware.
Just pick one and get started. Don't overthink it. Ignore anyone (like /u/NewMemba) who tries to sell.you a One True Religion argument. quot homines, tot sententiae
Mint is very friendly, and is the most popular
Zorin is also very friendly
Definitely Qubes if security is your priority
If you've used Ubuntu, you'll be familiar with it, which is an advantage. They had a controversy including Amazon products in their search results, but that was temporary and has been resolved, so ignore anyone who's still butthurt about it.
If you're using a cheap or old computer (under 4GB or RAM), you'll need a lightweight distro. You probably don't have to go as light as Puppy Linux, but something like Lubuntu or Xubuntu
[–] oiseaulibre ago (edited ago)
I love Arch, but I a lot of people think it's too complicated for them. My other go to is Mint Cinnamon, especially when someone is switching from Windows, it is very easy.
Edit:
With Arch, I'd suggest the i3 window manager.
Also, more on why Arch is my choice:
You are in control. You get a somewhat bare-bones OS and get customize it to your fit. Despite being "complicated" the documentation and "Arch-wiki" are fantastic and very helpful.
Aaand more on Mint:
It is built on Ubuntu so if you have Ubuntu experience it should be an easy transition to make. And even if you don't have any Linux experience the design is very user friendly and is very easy to switch to from Windows.
[–] Wedhro 0 points 2 points 2 points (+2|-0) ago (edited ago)
If Ubuntu didn't make you want to peel your own skin out of frustration I suggest Linux Mint, which is based on it but with a (arguably) better interface. If you're an average user, you won't have to do much after installation but clicking a few icons to download multimedia codecs and update your software, quite a straighforward operation.
You can choose between different "flavors" i.e. interfaces and software collections:
[–] Newmemba 1 point -1 points 0 points (+0|-1) ago
What the fuck are you talking about? BOTH Mint and the Ubuntu(for idiots) are based on Debian. If you really want to use Linux you have to be using Debian, which is the base for literally hundreds of distros which include Mint and Ubuntu, neither of which cut it in my opinion.
[–] Wedhro ago
Correct, but I don't usually suggest Debian to someone coming from Windows because it's not that easy to use compared to "for idiots" distros.