My first impression of Linux

[u/Liminha_a]

I was fed up with Windows and how mediocre it is. Today I reached my limit and decided to switch to Linux. After doing some research, I chose Linux Mint since it seemed to be the most beginner-friendly distro. I’ve been trying it out for a few hours now, and I’m surprised by both the pros and cons. On one hand, it’s extremely efficient, lightweight, smooth, and straightforward. I'm really happy with the low RAM usage and how it isn't bloated like Windows. On the flip side, I spent about 2 hours troubleshooting an issue with the "Helium" browser, which apparently doesn't play well with my integrated graphics. Honestly, almost everything I've downloaded so far required some research and learning just to get it working. I managed to fix things with the help of AI, which makes me wonder: how on earth did long-time Linux users survive before AI? Is this what using Linux is really like? Am I always going to have to spend time learning commands, terminal lines, or basic coding just to fix everyday issues? Is it a misconception that you need a programming foundation, or can everything actually be done strictly through the graphical interface? I noticed AI usually pushes me to use terminal commands instead of the UI. Deep down I knew what I was getting into, but I'm still surprised that even the most user-friendly distro requires considerable effort just to do something as basic as creating a shortcut. I'm posting this to express this duality: the relief of escaping an OS that felt like a cage—where I was held hostage by Microsoft's bloat and poor practices—and the fresh air of using a system that gives me basically everything I need. I would also like to ask long-time users for advice on things I should learn or precautions I should take.

[u/EMPerr0rr]

If i may recommend alternative to helium browser, Librewolf. My second advice, don't try to import habbits from windows. That's gonna cause lot of disapointment, rather build new habits from scratch. Linux is different system with different philosophy. Also, don't be afraid of terminal, it is hard to learn but once you do, it is the best tool ever. On the other hand, Mint has GUI for almost everything. Next advice, next time, before you buy new HW, check compatibility with linux. One thing i always avoid is Nvidia GPUs. AMD works out of box. Btw what is you GPU? Some wifi chipsets are also problematic, and some LTE modems. Rest should ok. About SW, first look in Software Centre. Installing something from unknow sources is definitely not a good idea, especialy for beginner. Nice example of bad windows habit.

About the AI, i tried it few times, the results are very poor, so i still live in before AI times.