Which Linux distribution should you choose?

A quick guide by profile.

1. Beginner coming from Windows: Linux Mint (Cinnamon), Zorin OS or Ubuntu.
2. Recent hardware, up-to-date software: Fedora Workstation or openSUSE Tumbleweed.
3. Server / maximum stability: Debian, Rocky Linux or AlmaLinux.
4. You want to understand everything: Arch Linux (or EndeavourOS for a graphical installer).
5. Privacy: Tails (live, amnesic). Data recovery: SystemRescue.
6. When in doubt, try it "live" (without installing) or in a virtual machine.