Windows 11 to unsupported hardware or Linux Mint

[AlexTr]

So, I am one of those folks who has a perfectly good, running laptop in Windows 10 but is facing the discontinuation of security patches and updates in October 2025. I can install Win 11, but it might end up being unstable. It also may not be eligible for security updates.

My hardware: Asus Rog Strix GL703VD, Samsung 870 EVO SATA III 2.5 Inch 1 TB SSD (2022 install to replace hybrid drive), 32 (2x16) GB Samsung m471 RAM, i7-7700 Intel processor (2017 - not replaceable, soldered in).

Really, the thing runs like a top. I hate to get rid of perfectly good hardware because of the operating system and am strongly considering the change.

Opinions? Advice?

[Sx4]

I made the move to Linux mint more than10 years ago and have been super satisfied.

Adv: Relative virus free, so many wonderful programs, libre office, GIMP, etc, full control over the program etc.

Disadv: some tax software etc don't support Linux, learning curve to get used to command box etc, sometimes integration of peripherals is not automatic and needs intervention.

Tl;Dr. Highly recommended

[Eric7]

Windows 11 is terrible.

Not really helpful, I know!

[Fraufruit]

I've been using W11 for quite a while. No problems. Get security updates regularly.

Other than that, I know nothing about computers.

[GaryC]

I have been running Windows 11 since it was launched with no more issues than one generally gets with computers. I have also used Linux for 20 years but for a specific purpose. I would not make that change for day-to-day use but these things are very personal.

[Franklan]

So, I am one of those folks who has a perfectly good, running laptop in Windows 10 but is facing the discontinuation of security patches and updates in October 2025. I can install Win 11, but it might end up being unstable. It also may not be eligible for security updates.

Current setup is upgraded to the latest Windows 11 release via RUFUS patched USB-sticks, eventhough the hardware is declared "unfit" for windows 11.

I am using Windows 11 for anything that needs a GUI ("Graphic user interface"). For anything text based, I have WSL" ("Windows Linux Subsystem") and several virtual machines in the background, some of them Debian, some of them Ubuntu.

I am happier than a pig in shite, to be honest.

Once one has grasped how to "prepare" the installation media, the windows 11 upgrade is easier than taking a dump in the morning.

[heidi_de]

Running Fedora on my main gaming PC (5950x with 7900xtx & 64GB RAM). Bluetooth is problematic, at least with airpods. Most of the hardware I have is generic enough and works well under linux.
I run Linux on other machines and have had issues mainly with sound devices. YMMV. I have a Scarlett 2i2 gen 3 which generally works well with everything though.
Games with Anticheat don't always work, but I find myself playing fewer of these kinds of AAA titles nowadays.

I made it my new years resolution to switch away from Windows, mainly due to Microsoft building more and more crapware into the OS.

I did buy a Mac Mini M4 base model before Christmas. Stuck an external Thunderbolt enclosure on it and it's working nicely. Can't ignore the performance of this or the price tbh.