Searching for a Linux distro?

Question

I've used Ubuntu a little bit on Virtualbox, but I'd still say I'm definitely a noob with Linux. I was watching a video of Arch Linux, and I realized how terrible Vista is. Aside from all the gay errors I get, my computer is using 40% of its CPU when it's just sitting here, and I have 4GB RAM and a 2.10 ghz duo core processor. The guy using Arch Linux only used about 7% of his CPU. -_-
I have some criteria for whatever distro I get though.
1) It has to be relatively easy to use, since I'm a noob.
2) It needs to be stable. If it's going to crash on me, I'm better off with Vista.
3) I'd rather not have a lame imitation of Windows, like Linux Mint.
4) I'd prefer that it be on the faster side, as far as Linux is concerned. I seriously can not stand having a slow computer, especially while I'm gaming.

If anyone has any suggestions for me, I'd appreciate it.

Answer 1

An easy, stable fast version of linux.

Most linux distros are stable if you do not try to run on the bleeding edge of new. Stick with the tried and tested version of programs rather than the very latest version. The same is true for the entire version of linux that you install. For example debian has versions that it calls stable, testing and unstable. The names are very accurate descriptions of the various versions. In order to be stable it is also necessary to keep it updated and any security patches installed.



If you want linux to run fast you should avoid software bloat and unnecessary addons, i.e. eye candy. The neat looking features will slow the system down. I'm talking about compizfusion and the heavyweight desktops like kde and gnome.



Linux is easy if you have read the instructions and follow the proper linux way of doing things.



Generally people say that Debian is the most stable distro because they only release a newer version when they are sure it is ready, (it has been 2 years since the last release debian 4.0), some distros release a new version every 6 months, like ubuntu, which is based on debian. Debian also has a reputation for being boring because it change very slowly and does not try to implement every new idea immediately. Here are 2 reviews of Debian 5.0.

If you were able to use ubuntu successfully and without a lot of problems i would suggest that you give debian a try. Be sure to read the documentation for it, of which there is a lot. Check the lightweight desktops instead of gnome or kde, like LXDE, fluxbox, xfce, and there are many more that you can try. They are all lightweight and make your system run faster.

Have fun

Answer 2

You can take a look at the fundamental ubuntu (first hyperlink), and set up the further application or use Ubuntu Studio (moment hyperlink) which has plenty of multimedia application and formats set up. The 3rd hyperlink lists application that's incorporated. Because ubuntu studio has a lot more incorporated application you're going to have got to use a dvd because it'll no longer have compatibility on a cd. You can run the reside dvd to get a way of the seem and think. Much of the application that you just record is both no longer wanted in linux (defense, ccleaner, complex process care down load supervisor) or has it possess application for burning cd/dvds, and many others. Virtualbox and VMWare are to be had for down load with linux.

Answer 3

How is Linux Mint a lame imitation of windows? I've been using it on my laptop and if you are saying it is similar then you must be saying that ubuntu is also an imitation because they are very similar.



Second, why use linux for gaming? Almost no major games are supported or developed for linux, and I can personally tell you wine is not the best thing for playing games.

Answer 4

What do you consider lame imitation of Windows. Have you taken a look at Kubuntu or PCLinuxOS 2009-1 KDE. They are both similar looks to Windows. There is Fedora Core and Mandriva Free Edition.



I personally run PCLinuxOS 2009-1 KDE version and Windows Vista dual boot on an HP Slimline Desktop with a 4Ghz prosessor, 4GB of ram and a 500GB hard drive. For me it is totally awesome. I also run it with Windows XP on my Dell Laptop. Don't have any problems at all. Keeping Windows is for gaming reasons and the fact Linux and Windows can't do everything, so I have the best of both systems.

Answer 5

If you consider Linux Mint to be a lame imitation of windows then you are wasting your time just stick with what you've got, you are welcome to it



LUg.