Cost of jumping to GNU/linux ship

There are few different costs:

Fedora 5: latest kernel, mostly automated installation, few compatibility issues if hardware is general enough (not cutting-edge ones), choice limited by RedHat taste - suitable for general and casual desktop users without not many requirements

Suse? no comment - have not used or tried installation

Debian GNU/Linux 3.1: stable but older config, must get your hands dirty to figure it out right but experience is like study review of your hardware specification, rewarding: suitable for those who know what they are doing and greater control on what can be installed on your PC

Ubuntu: derivative of Debian, gather many smoke and appreciations in the recent years, target for desktop and easy installation

Knoppix: derivative of Debian, can use a live-CD rom to test whether you feel comfortable with GNU/linux or not

For whatever options, this becomes a clear requirement for me to continue the surf in the IT sea.