For years, I have relied on Linux as the primary operating system for all my computing devices. This includes both personal desktops and mobile devices running Android. I firmly believe that an OS like software should be open-source, allowing users full control over their systems. Unfortunately, with Windows and MacOS, this is often not possible. Over time, I’ve tried explaining the benefits of open-source platforms like Linux to others but realize many people aren’t comfortable installing a new operating system or prefer ready-to-use devices instead. Therefore, I decided to start building custom personal computers preloaded with Linux for users to experience its potential firsthand.

Finding a complete PC with Linux pre-installed isn’t straightforward anymore. When I search on Amazon for desktop computers with Linux, what stands out are predominantly tiny mini PCs or low-powered systems. It’s true that Linux is an excellent operating system for less demanding machines due to its lightweight nature and resource efficiency compared to Windows. However, there should also be opportunities for people to utilize Linux on mid-to-higher-end hardware.

My goal is to explore building these kinds of systems myself—to embrace the potential of running a more powerful setup with Linux, showcasing its versatility beyond just basic computing tasks.

Hardware

Case:

• Selected Fractal Design due to its stylish designs and effective cooling solutions, ensuring a neat and functional setup on the desk.

Input Devices:

• Mechanical Keyboard: Keycron for solid performance and comfort during typing.
• Optical Mouse: Glorious for their stunning aesthetics and functionality ideal for both gaming and daily use.

Displays:

• LG monitors known for high resolution, accurate color reproduction, and support for the latest display technologies, enhancing overall user experience.

Cooling Solutions:

• Aftermarket cooling systems from Nactua are chosen to ensure optimal system performance and longevity by maintaining cooler temperatures during intensive tasks like gaming or multitasking.

Motherboards:

• Asus was selected for its reliability, quality build, and customization options that add a nice touch for overclocking and aesthetics.

Memory & Storage:

• Crucial is the brand of choice for both RAM (2 sticks as dual-channel setup) and NVMe M.2 SSDs for fast boot times and efficient data access.
• Additional storage may include multiple SATA-based SSDs in a striped array for enhanced performance and quicker backups.

Software

There are many Linux distributions to choose from. For the systems I build I will be going with Linux Mint.

Why Choosing Linux Mint is Ideal for Beginners in Linux:

1. Ease of Use: Unlike traditional Linux distributions that can be overwhelming due to their complexity, Linux Mint is designed with an intuitive interface that closely resembles Windows. This similarity makes it much easier to transition from a Windows environment without a steep learning curve.
2. Pre-Installed Software: Linux Mint comes with a comprehensive set of essential applications and tools tailored specifically for new users. This eliminates the need to manually install software, saving time and effort during the initial setup process.
3. User-Friendly Interface: The graphical user interface (GUI) in Linux Mint is straightforward and user-friendly. Features such as mintMenu help organize tasks efficiently while maintaining a clean desktop environment.
4. Community Support and Documentation: As an actively maintained distribution with strong community support, Linux Mint benefits from continuous updates, fixes, and abundant documentation that aids new users in troubleshooting common issues.
5. Compatibility and Stability: Being based on Ubuntu’s extensive ecosystem of packages ensures compatibility with a wide range of software applications, making the system more versatile and less prone to compatibility issues often faced by other Linux distributions.
6. Multiple Versions Available: Linux Mint offers different versions catering to various user needs— lightweight versions for those seeking minimal resource usage and feature-rich versions ideal for power users, providing flexibility based on individual requirements.
7. Future-Proofing: Starting with Linux Mint allows new users to experience theLinux ecosystem in a friendly manner, while still having access to powerful tools that can be explored as one becomes more comfortable with Linux.

In summary, Linux Mint is an excellent choice for beginners due to its user-friendly interface, comprehensive software packages pre-installed, strong community support, and compatibility with existing software applications. It provides the perfect balance of ease of use and functionality, making it a seamless transition into the world of Linux without overwhelming newcomers.