[Rohansi]

The problem is most people "who are just using Windows for PC games and using a web browser" are not a good fit for Linux. They don't install their OS themselves so cannot install a Linux distro. They don't do their own regular maintenance so forced updates are necessary. They expect software like Office to be available - not alternatives that work a bit differently and have buttons in unfamiliar places. Computer literacy is going down so this is only getting worse. Hardware that ships with SteamOS is the best chance to get PC gamers onto Linux. It's already being used by nearly 1% of Steam users and Steam has a lot of users.

> Plus, it's been my experience that drivers for AMD's graphics cards just work better on Linux

That's why Valve went with AMD for the Steam Deck and Machine. But it's also another blocker because 72% of Steam users have an Nvidia GPU.

[simoncion]

> The problem is most people...

From the first sentence in my reply:

  Many or most of those 95% ...would be well served by either trying out or having a tech-savvy neighbor help them try out...

> But it's also another blocker because 72% of Steam users have an Nvidia GPU.

My buddy games on Linux and has an nVidia graphics card. It works well enough when you use nVidia's proprietary drivers. Distros like Bazzite install those out of the box. See also this comment [0] posted two hours before yours.

[0] <https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=49099323>

[Rohansi]

> Many or most of those 95% ...would be well served by either trying out or having a tech-savvy neighbor help them try out...

I ignored this bit because it wouldn't make an impact. Curiosity and patience is limited for most people so they don't bother exploring options - they just want to game. Having a friend/family/neighbor who can help would be great if there were enough of us, but they still need to take the first step and ask.

Valve is apparently working with Nvidia for proper support with SteamOS. I have my doubts though, I expect AMD will continue to be the best choice, but official support in SteamOS would be significant.

[simoncion]

> I ignored this bit because it wouldn't make an impact.

You, from earlier:

  The problem is most people ... don't install their OS themselves so cannot install a Linux distro.

Me, from the comment you replied to:

  Many or most of those 95% ... would be well served by either trying out or having a tech-savvy neighbor help them try out...

I preempted your objection, but you were quite committed to getting your copypasta out. Why is it copypasta? Because you said -among other things-

> They expect software like Office to be available - not alternatives...

in reply to my setup

  Many or most of those 95% who are just using Windows for PC games and using a web browser...