We’ve switched to Linux—should you?

The PC Gamer team have ditched Windows and moved to Linux. A few of us have, anyways. Join us as we talk about making that leap, why we did it, what we like about an open source OS, and at least one tale of when it all went wrong at the worst possible time. We’re new to Linux but we like what we see—are you considering making the change, too?

0:00 – Introduction 00:24 – Why we have switched to Linux 03:32 – The downsides of switching to Linux 04:09 – Kernel level anti-cheat 04:51 – The impact of Proton 07:53 – Should PC gamers dual boot? 08:53 – Nvidia & Linux 12:50 – Desktop environments 14:04 – Jacob’s bad Linux experience 23:10 – Change is as good as an upgrade

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We’ve switched to Linux—should you?

In recent years, Linux has moved from a niche operating system to a viable option for a broad range of users. Whether you’re a developer, a designer, or simply someone who values control and security, it’s worth considering how Linux could fit into your workflow. Here’s a practical framework to help you decide.

Why consider Linux – Stability and performance: Many distributions are lightweight and capable of running on older hardware, extending the life of your devices. – Security model: Linux benefits from a robust permission system, prompt security updates, and a large, collaborative ecosystem that prioritizes transparency. – Customization: From the kernel to the desktop environment, Linux offers a level of customization that allows you to tailor the experience to your needs. – Open source: Access to the source code fosters transparency and the possibility to audit or contribute to improvements. – Ecosystem and tooling: A wide range of development tools, containers, and programming languages are readily available and well-supported.

Who benefits most – Developers and IT professionals who value precision, reproducibility, and scripting capabilities. – Creative professionals who rely on open-source software for design, video, and audio work, or who appreciate robust workflow automations. – Enthusiasts and power users who enjoy tinkering and optimizing their systems.

What to expect during the transition – Application availability: Core productivity tools exist on Linux, and many popular apps offer official Linux releases or robust open-source alternatives. Some specialized software may require workarounds, such as compatibility layers or virtualization. – File compatibility: Modern Linux environments handle common file formats with strong interoperability, though occasional format-specific hiccups can occur when moving between ecosystems. – Hardware support: Most mainstream hardware is well-supported, but certain peripherals or specialized devices may require searches for compatible drivers or community-driven fixes. Checking distribution hardware compatibility lists ahead of time can save time. – Learning curve: For users accustomed to Windows or macOS, there is a learning curve around package managers, terminal usage, and system configuration. A staged approach, starting with a dual-boot or live sessions, helps ease the transition.

Choosing the right distribution and setup – For newcomers: Consider user-friendly distributions that emphasize a gentle learning curve, strong community support, and solid out-of-the-box experience. A live USB session can be a risk-free way to test. – For developers: Look for distributions with strong package management, up-to-date toolchains, and good container/VM support. LTS releases can provide stability for long-term projects. – Desktop environments matter: GNOME and KDE Plasma offer polished experiences, while lighter desktops like Xfce or LXQt can improve performance on older hardware. – Documentation and community: A responsive community and thorough documentation make the transition smoother. Favor distributions with active forums, official docs, and beginner guides.

Practical steps to evaluate 1) Identify your core workloads: What apps are non-negotiable, and which can be replaced with Linux-native or web-based alternatives? 2) Test drive: Use a live USB or a virtual machine to explore the user experience, software availability, and hardware compatibility. 3) Plan a phased migration: Start with day-to-day tasks under Linux, then gradually onboard more complex workflows. 4) Consider data migration and backups: Establish a robust backup strategy and plan for migrating data and configurations. 5) Prepare for support: Build a small, reliable plan for troubleshooting—community forums, official documentation, and, if needed, professional support channels.

Case studies in brief – Small teams embracing Linux for development and deployment pipelines report improved reproducibility and cost savings, thanks to containerization and automation tools. – Individual professionals who rely on cross-platform tools often adopt Linux distributions that optimize their preferred toolchains, balancing performance with user experience.

Conclusion Switching to Linux is not a universal answer, but it’s a compelling option for those seeking greater control, security, and efficiency. By assessing your needs, trying a few distributions, and approaching the transition methodically, you can determine whether Linux will elevate your workflow or if a more conservative, mixed environment would better serve you. The landscape today is richer than ever, offering choices that align with different priorities—from stability and speed to customization and open-source ideation.

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