Well, after a few days of researching Linux, I have decided on Ubuntu Mate; however, I am unsure at this point the best way to test it: in a virtual box or in it’s own partition. My system is a home-made Windows 7 Home Edition system: 8 gigs ram, Intel i3 core, Asus Z77 MB, Nvidia GTX 650.
There’s plenty of hard drive space to partition, but I’m really looking for the best overall experience of having the chance to learn a bit about Ubuntu Mate before I install it.