not much to consider, but if you are new to linux I would suggest a linux that is complete in itself, that is, that it doesn't need any after-install, like the pure distros then, ie, one just installs it straight off and everything like codexes, mp3 playing, and the like work without having to go through hoops of permissions
try "Mint linux" then, it is complete from start, complete even from the "live CD" test, so if you boot up onto it from the CD liking what you see, then just install it, as unlike windows one knows what one gets even before the install, amazing when you think of the missing driver problem after installing windows, btw "word" and "excel" compatibility through "openoffice", "firefox" for the browser, etc,
also, if you've been running Visa, the linux speed will amaze you too, also you'll have four screens as standard, lots of eye candy such a floppy windows, the four screen cube, etc., and everything free, oh, and another reason I like linux is that the mac address behind the IP address is a clone, meaning that unlike windows, with its reporting to the update center your license number each time, under linux you really are anonymous without that WGA sillyness, nor the EULA reminiscent of Mephistopheles proposition to Faust
the only detraction I see is the lack of games but that is hardly a problem since, for the price of the window's license, officeworks, and yearly protection, one could buy a PS3 for that money
Edited by fleamailman, 14 November 2009 - 10:29 AM.