I use several different flavors of Linux, if you like to try to keep with a windows xp / 7 theme, you could try out ZorinOS they have free distros you can download and burn to disk to use to install as well as some paid for versions.
So far I have had really good luck with LinuxMint http://linuxmint.com/
I have placed it on several different PC's and Laptops all with good luck, meaning everything from sound card to wireless network card working.. Based off of the Ubuntu , using the same repositories as Ubuntu. Ubuntu has a lot of nice things, but I personally do not care for the UNITY desktop i like mine more traditional.
I would recommend going to Distrowatch.com and reading more on what you might prefer.. each linux user has a preference over the other, but we all have the same agreement, freedom from Microsoft and the outrageous cost of running a OS.