Personally I’d say if you’re coming from a Mac, go Pop!_OS. If you’re coming from Windows, go Linux mint. Both have the option to run from a USB to test before installing.

Line MUST go up.

Pop has been great. I feel like I own my computer again.

Plus one for the gli.net router. I’ve got the Beryl AX and it’s great. Ended up going with a wireguard VPN rather than tailscale, but either would work.