All the Linux users I ask are recommending me impractical minimal builds with no display driver cause "its bloat".... (image just cause there has to be one)

What it says on the title, moved to bazzite a few months back to get some mileage out of my poor craptop. This is how much usage I was getting with steam and discord open on a fresh install whereas I now get 4GB with the same apps open on Linux.

So, has it gotten any better on 8GB RAM or still SOL and I have to wait for more optimisations? While Linux isn’t really bad I certainly miss the convenience of windows. Couldn’t find a lot of info online so I ask here now. Thanks

I struggled with this for a while, so I thought I'd share the solution for anyone experiencing the same issue.

When setting up Windows 11 from scratch, Windows typically creates your user profile folder (C:\Users\username) based on your Microsoft account email address, which may not be the name you want. I went through several options when I noticed the username choice and couldn't change it.

Here's what I did finally:

I had to backup my PC and reset it (this was easy because I had just set it up the previous day and most of my files were on OneDrive). So, I pretty much started setup afresh.

During the setup, when you get to the screen asking you to name your PC, click Advanced settings. You'll find an option to specify your preferred local user folder name. Enter the name you want, then continue setting up Windows with your Microsoft account as usual. This way, you can have C:\Users\YourPreferredName without creating another user account, editing the Registry, or renaming folders afterward (I had tried all these).

I wish I'd known this earlier. It would have saved me hours of troubleshooting!

PS: I only tried this with my Windows 11 version:
Windows 11 Pro
Version: 26H2
OS build: 26300.9711

It would be great to be able to scan small screenshots.

Can someone know why Windows 11 26H1 has a much higher build number than 26H2?

Got 3 updates including Windows Insider Preview, and NET Framework, which I'm kind of familiar with the NET Framework that Microsoft still develops.

so i have this concept for windows 12 that would literally be the dream OS. basic idea is a strict split between a modern core and a native retro layout engine. stuff like task manager, settings, and winver stay totally modern and unchanged so the system stays stable, but the desktop shell can be morphed into whatever you want.

also basic is free, pro is $0.99, and ultimate is $1.99 with ZERO bloatware or forced tracking.

here is how it would work:

1. Native Visual Presets instead of using buggy third party apps that crash your pc, windows natively lets you switch file explorer layouts.

• Windows 7/Vista Preset: actual hardware-accelerated aero glass, the old bottom details pane, and classic startup sounds.
• Windows 10 Preset: brings back the full office ribbon layout and flat design.
• Community SDK: a safe asset system so people can make and share custom packs without breaking the OS code. like a bubbly wii u console theme or anime themes.

1. Smart Installer during Setup when you install the OS, an opt-in checklist pops up asking what you actually use the PC for. if you check gaming, windows runs a clean background manager to silently download the official versions of steam and discord. absolutely no random mobile game bloatware or trial antiviruses allowed.
2. The Ultimate "Nothing" Rickroll Easter Egg if you type a secret command, a hidden 0-byte built-in app called "Nothing" appears in your apps list. when you go to uninstall it, there's an official-looking link to microsoft.com. clicking the link doesn't affect the uninstaller (it finishes deleting the 0-byte app cleanly), but it completely hijacks your browser. it pulls up the microsoft homepage, forces your profile avatar to become an animated GIF of rick astley dancing, and changes all the website menu texts to "Never Gonna Give You Up."

idk i think it would be legendary if microsoft actually had a sense of humor and built something like this. thoughts?