Open Source and Free Software

Most Linux OSs are the same from the standpoint of the kernel which really is the OS. Everything else is desktop choice which would include whether you like the Mac feel of the M$ feel or something completely different. You can have the Mac look and feel probably the easiest because Mac IS UNIX just like Linux. The only difference is that Mac is locked up and depends mostly on it proprietary software and hardware. Most Mac desktop features actually originated in Linux and the Mac OS is from Unix BSD.

So in the end, you really are just choosing what desktop you like or secondly the philosophy of the developer like how often it's updated, upgraded, whether it offers non-free or restricted software or where the OS gets its software by default (the repository).

If you want to compare most Linux distros you could go to www.distrowatch.com and look around. It's sometimes confusing but the information is pretty complete if you want to find distros or desktops to compare and it will link to their sites. You can also search according to your preferences and get a list of distros filtered to your specs.

From what you have said, you will probably be happiest with the Debian branches of Linux like Ubuntu and MInt to name two; it offers the most software and desktop choices plus ease of installation and compatibility.

BTW, my favorite desktop is E17 or Enlightenment but it's always considered experimental so beware, though Bodhi Linux does a good job supporting it. It's kind of out there...