Before buying new hardware, I ensure that it is Linux compatible. I go for Intel WiFi, integrated graphics in laptops, and ensure that the screen either looks fine at native resolution or 2x DPI scaling, since decimal scaling on Linux still has a ways to go. This usually limits me to 1600x900 or 3200x1800 on a 13.3"-14" screen, or 1920x1080 or 3840x2160 on a 15.6" screen. I don't plug an external monitor into the laptop (I've had too many issues with DPI mismatch, screen detection, etc.), instead I use a Desktop when at the desk. For desktops, Intel NUCs work well and a 27" 2560x1440 screen is great.
I maintain a dual-boot of Windows so that I can use Office and other programs that generally work better on Windows.
The company I work for uses Win7, and I don't see it changing anytime soon. Several of my colleagues uses some flavours of Linux, and have been encouraging me to switch too.
There are a couple of reasons why I haven't switched:
- IT only officially supports Win7, so I'd have to be my own sysadmin.
- The guys running Linux also require all manner of workarounds to access their email and other systems that use Active Directory.
- Libre Office and MS Office documents don't always render the same, as one poor fellow recently found out when he had to do a presentation.
At home I use whatever I like. Currently it's Mint.
Also: X11. There's no comparison with competitors in terms of variety of every single tool, and the customization you can do with it.
