Need advice on Linux or Win

[JaMa-JoAd]

I am giving my old PC to my son (10yr) and the machine will be situated in the living room (so I can make sure he stays safe online). It currently has Windows 7 on it, but also a dual-boot Linux. He has used Linux a couple of times and seems to be OK with it, but I want to have either Linux or Windows on it, not both. What would be the better choice for a 10 year old (learning and user friendly). He shows keen interest in learning about computers so giving him my old PC for that reason, as well as for doing his homework.

So, Linux or Windows and if Linux, what Distro? Am I right in thinking that if he learns Linux it would benefit him greater than Windows if he wanted to get in to IT when he is older?

 

[Ploppy2k3]

Linux really is Marmite. love it or hate it. Its something I wish I had gotten in to a long time ago but i went down the Wintel route heavily and there is no turning back for me.

why not just leave both on there and let him play about with both of them. if he wants to get in to IT later knowing both Linux and Wintel will be the best advantage rather than sticking to one or the other.

 

[V4NT0M]

Windows, he won't be using Linux at school.

imo Linux is only a desktop choice if you can't or don't want to afford windows and/or you're not too interested in gaming.

 

[stopper]

The only real benefit of having Windows is the gaming, so right now there is no competition. Other than that, Linux can do every thing Windows can, just as well and just as easy, if not better in a lot of places.
Maybe look at Linux when Steam OS has gained some ground, say in a year or 2.