I used Ubuntu once a few years ago but had compatability issues so I went back to windows. Not a great programmer but I’d like to learn. I’m not looking to do much gaming beyond DOOM2 and factorio. Mostly looking for privacy and a way to get back into programming (I have this pipe dream of learning Assembly). I’m not to particular on UI, I can use whatever.
Anytime someone new ask for recommendation, I’d give Linux Mint.
also this, start small with mint, and you can test other distros that people show here
also, start with dual boot/VM, it’s a different OS, keep windows there for when you need it
Yes! It’s good to start with something that’s beginner friendly to maintain sanity and good expectation.
A lot of potential novices would be repulsed if the first tutorial they’d see requires extensive use of command line.