Which Linux?

[Birdman]

Alright guys, I know there's several different versions on Linux but I have no clue what the differences are in any of them or anything. 

 

I want to put Linux on my laptop because I've always been curious on it and I think it's time to learn. I use it for just derping around on the internet and that's about it. 

 

Basically if someone can help me figure out which Linux I should start using and what the differences are that would be great. 

 

Thanks. 

[cjeffcoatjr]

Ubuntu is nice for beginners, but if you have an extra storage solution, then try LinuxMint.

[nsyedhasan]

Elementary and Ubuntu.

[Tea1337]

I'd just use ubuntu, i did it with that thing that i can't think the name of where you can choose what OS you boot into

[Guest]

mint

[InfiniteStratas]

Kali or Arch Linux if you want to jump into the deep end of the pool.

I've been hearing about Arch Linux a lot recently, do you know what's so special about this distribution?

[Rassilon]

Only absolute idiots would recommend arch to a new user. If your putting it on a laptop, and aren't a power user, Lybuntu is your best bet.

[lutzee]

I've been hearing about Arch Linux a lot recently, do you know what's so special about this distribution?

ArchLinux is a rolling release distribution, there is no versions like ubuntu, when something is marked as stable it gets pushed to the main repositories, including the kernel. I should be seeing the latest kernel (3.13) any day now.

Rolling release has the advantage of being able to stay at the bleeding edge of all software and supporting users is easier as theres no one running 'older' versions of stuff.

[Birdman]

Thanks for the imput guys. I installed Ubuntu, and I'm currently browsing around it, trying to get the feel for things.

[rashdanml]

Kali or Arch Linux if you want to jump into the deep end of the pool.

Or integrate Kali/Backtrack features into any distribution by adding the repository. Blackarch on Arch linux for instance.