How hard is it to use Linux/Ubuntu?

Question

I currently have a Dell laptop (running Windows) that is about 4 years old, and want to replace it with one of the new Linux/Ubuntu Dells.
How hard is it to learn this new software? I'm computer savvy, but not at the programming level (I'm capable of doing HTML, and am generally better/geekier than the average person at computers but don't want to go in over my head with this...)
Thanks!

Answer 1

It's not the joyful, wonderful experience all the Linux lover's pretend it to be.

I've tried Linux. I hate Linux. If you want to be easily able to play your music and surf the net, and use your applications, Linux is not for you.

Be prepared for hours of command line command just to get a video player installed and running.

Answer 2

If, it pre-loaded to work with the computer it may not be bad, as they will have everything working. If, you load it on an existing computer you may have to do some brain work to get some things working, like your CD-DVD Burner.
I installed Ubuntu on a computer I built and was surprised at how it detected most everything. My Digital Camera worked, my external hard drive even the sound (Without their Windows Software). Windows I had to install my sound drivers manual, but, not a problem. Only problem was my Burner and had to go into Terminal (Like DOS) to make some manual command changes. I need to connect my Scanner and see what happen, just have not got around to it.
But, as I say, if it pre-loaded then everything should work. Now, say you want to add a scanner later, you may want to see if Dell have one that is compatible or have software drivers for Ubuntu. So, think what will you add and if it will work? Also, if a Digital Camera not be detected or work properly. You can buy a card reader that works easy and just remove from the camera and stick in the card reader. But, my camera works great and it even erase the card after the import.

Answer 3

I recently was running Ubuntu 6.10, upgraded to 7.04, on a Dell C40 (model might be off). It worked just great, especially given that the laptop only had 768MB RAM. It was very easy to use. So, when I just received my new Dell laptop last week, I redid the partitioning, giving Windows Vista only 50GB but 100GB to Ubuntu. I'll use the Windows boot for only when I need to sync my phone, use iTunes to access the store, or use Outlook. But for the most part, I'll use the Ubuntu side. If you've ever played with Linux in the past, you'll appreciate how mature Ubuntu is and thus easy to use.

Answer 4

Well, Ubuntu isn't exactly "hard" to use, just different (mastering is a long process, though). But if I may say something: THERE IS VERY LIMITED HARDWARE SUPPORT FOR UBUNTU AND LINUX! I've thought of switching to Ubuntu myself, but after checking the list of compatible wireless networking adapters (about 5, number of drivers are less [haven't figured that one out yet]), I quickly turned away. My suggestion: Get a Ubuntu CD and install it on your current laptop, or run it as a live CD (running from CD drive, instead of Hard Drive), since Ubuntu is free, both the downloads and CDs. Then, you don't have to spend any money on a new laptop, and you have the option of reinstalling Windows if you don't like it, or just eject the Live CD and you're good to go!