Computersight -

Linux has alot to offer any home computer user with any range of experiance. For example, the ubuntu linux distrobution comes preinstalled with openoffice.org and a wide variety of fun games like majong and chess, and installing more applications couldn’t be easier.

Gamer’s Perspective

For hardcore gamers, linux would be a trip to hell. 99% of all the games out there will NOT run on any linux distrobution. There are some emulators that will allow partial function of windows games and other apps, but for the most part, you shouldn’t even bother. However, linux runs about 3 times as fast as windows vista and all browser games should work without lag, and there are a wide variety of games that are free, and are very fun and similar to other comercial games. However, because linux cannot run nearly any windows apps, any games you have bought before hand will be money wasted.

For the Home User

From my experiance with linux, it “just works.” No tinkering, no adjusting to make everything function, it just runs. It’s speed is unparalelled, I found myself working about twice as fast as vista with up to six open programs, including a music player and browser, which are imfamous for devouring RAM. The games that do work are very fun, but have a bit of a short play time. After about a week, you’ll be sick of most of the games you have. Some games tho, such as tremulous, keep you entertained for a very long time. Openoffice allows you to get any work you need done quickly and efficiently, and your linux distro should automatically pick up your printer. Surfing the web will be MUCH faster than on any windows OS, so thats a plus too.

In Short

Pros: Fast, reliable, updates automatically and frequently, nearly virus proof, as hard to use as you want it to be.

Cons: Cant run windows programs, limited game selection, has some issues with flash.