KDE creates a safe haven for Windows 10 exiles.
In the context of the @Endof10 campaign, we have created a new “for” page, this time “for Windows 10 exiles”:
https://kde.org/for/w10-exiles/
In it we explain how Linux with Plasma can help users escape the deranged cycle of having to buy a new computer every time Microsoft force-upgrades their operating system.
I still recommend getting a new SSD to install Linux on if you want to keep the ability to run your old Windows on that same machine. It is cheap, safe for both your Windows and Linux installs, usually allows you to take advantage of advancements in SSD speeds, lets you have access to your old files so you can transfer them over and makes the whole process far less terrifying.
At some point you’ll realize you haven’t used your Windows drive in a year and it will be a lot easier to make the decision to finally erase it all and repurpose the drive for something else.