I posted this as a comment in another post but when I got done I realized it would probably just be better as its own post. I’m sure I could find the answers I need myself but frankly I trust the userbase here more than most online articles.

As my username hints at, I’m a lawyer. I’m considering starting my own firm as a solo practitioner. I need a computer and/or laptop for it, and as a new business my budget would be pretty tight. I’ve mostly only ever used windows, but I’m getting fed up with the bullshit, so I’m considering going with Linux.

I assume Linux is capable of doing everything I need, which is primarily handling word documents, viewing PDFs, watching evidence videos, and online research. But my concern is that some of the more commonly used video types might have trouble on Linux, or that some of the word document templates I use in Windows might have compatibility issues.

I’m also nervous about using an OS I’m not familiar with for business purposes right away.

So I guess I’m asking a few questions. What is a reliable yet affordable option to get started? Are my concerns based in reality or is Linux going to be able to handle everything windows does without issues? What else might I need to know to use Linux comfortably from the get go? Is it going to take a lot of time and effort to get Linux running how I need it to?

For reference, I do consider myself to be somewhat tech-savvy. I don’t code or anything, but I’ve built my last two home computers myself and I’m not scared of general software management, I just don’t make it myself.

So, yeah, sell me on Linux, please.

  • mayoi@sh.itjust.works
    228·
    1 year ago

    If you don’t have a cheap throwaway laptop to try doing business with Linux, you have no business doing any business.

      • mayoi@sh.itjust.works
        219·
        1 year ago

        If you’re really this poor, give me your address and I will mail you a thinkpad that noone will buy from me for more than $20.

        • Isoprenoid@programming.devEnglish
          7·
          1 year ago

          My brother in Christ, this isn’t about the money. This is about meeting business deadlines. OP can’t be using time trying to figure out something on Linux when his clients are waiting.

          His first clients are also going to be where his solo practice either sinks or swims.

          • Seasoned_Greetings@lemm.ee
            5·
            1 year ago

            This guy is a troll. He spends his time picking fights and deflecting anything that conflicts with his fragile world view. Check his profile.

            Just thought you should know. He doesn’t really care about dispensing advice, he just likes feeling superior