I'll add my two cents to the conversation. I am NOT a computer expert, and I
was able to install a dual boot with Ubuntu very easily on a rather testy
Gateway laptop. It works just fine with only some minor tweaking. I do
recommend using the Live CD first to see if you like it, and if everything
works.

I haven't made the full conversion to Ubuntu, but I'm tempted. It's just a
matter of a few Windows programs that I like and am not willing to give up
on yet.

I haven't commented much in this group, but I have found their insight very
helpful if you have any issues or concerns.