Linux?

[Pickle Girl Fanboy]

Recently bought a used laptop, and I'm wondering, "Linux?"

I didn't have a computer of my own until last month, but I did have an 80 GB external hard drive.  I bought it in 2006.  I just plugged it into whatever computer was handy.  On this external, I have emulators, eight different hex editors (I can't find one - for free - that does everything, so I use a different hex editor for different jobs), and a bunch of other stuff.  This is relevant because I like having programs where I use them, not in a central repository.  So, in my emulation folder, there is a tools folder, which has folders containing Archivers (7zip, Winrar, CDMage,...), Hex Editors (XVI32, Hxd, Hexecute,...), Image Editors (GraphicsGale, TileMolester,...), Spreadsheets, Lessons (Guide to Save State Hacking from fantasyanime,...)

I can't get over my dislike of having all my programs in a central repository; or having to use another program to install, modify, and remove them; or having to hunt through a bunch of crap to delete shortcuts and context menu options for programs I removed years ago.

So, what do you guys know about Linux?  Is there a distribution which will not force me to keep everything in one central location?  How customizable is Linux, and how difficult is it to customize it?

[VampragonLord]

linux is the more customizable then a PC and a Mac

[Zaen]

The only issue with not using a Windows OS is that you lack the amount of compatibility. Whereas Windows works with 99.9% of software, you have Mac that's more around the 60%, and Linux which I'd say is around 85-95%. Correct me if I'm wrong on the Linux numbers.

But like said, yeah... it's more customizable as it's open source.