So I'm building a new computer before the end of the year and lemmy is obviously pushing me towards Linux.
I am not computer savvy, I have a family member that will help me set up my PC, but I do not want to be calling/messaging them every day when I want to open a program.
Basically my question comes down to: can I operate a Linux PC these days without needing to troubleshoot or type code.
I use my computer about once a week for a few hours I would say, so any time spent troubleshooting is time wasted.
Thanks!
EDIT: since a lot of people are asking what programs I typically use, I'll just list my most used programs.
Word, Excel, ect(I'm fine with alternatives)
Spotify
Gimp (would have been a make or break, so I'm glad it's supported)
Brave browser (browser is a browser)
Steam
Discord
I would say that while I could figure out how the kernels work, I'm at a point with computers these days where I don't have the time. My priorities fall with a seamless daily experience. If I have the time to figure something out I can, but ideally my day to day usage being unbotherd is what I'm after.
A lot of the comments so far have been helpful! I'm definitely going to give Linux a fair shot with my new build, probably start with Mint.
Absolutely. Anything can be learned and unless things build on top of each other you can't really compare difficulties.
There are linux distros with installers that are windows style, and have a display manager that mimics it as well. Would that count as building on top of existing knowledge? I actually never used something like Mint but if people are putting it on their grandparents computers without issue there gotta be something there.
Point being that OP must've installed Windows before and therefore should be able to build a computer hardware-wise?
Yes installing windows is about as difficult as building a pc. Building computers is not hard unless you refuse to use a part picker site or a prebuilt parts list. Even then, the dude at micro center will pick your parts for you.
Building a pc is just pushing parts in and plugging cables in, not rocket science. Video guides are a thing.