I've run both Linux and Sun Solaris 2.6. While they are VERY robust operating systems, they're a big fat pain in the butt. Companies like Red Hat are helping to smooth the install process of Linux, but I think it's going to be a while before you see decent hardware support.
This is all going to be dependant on the system you're going to install on of course. If your system is fully supported by Linux, then you might just give it a try. It's definately fun.
My last experience was basically 3 days of pulling teeth before I FINALLY got it running. Then I sat there feeling all proud, but thinking "now what?" There's not nearly the software support, though there is some great software. Problem is...where do you get it? Most stores in my area don't carry much Linux software. Unless you have a real fast internet connection, plan on spending many a night on downloads.
The main benefit I had using Linux was that I was writing code that had to run on an Alpha OSF/2 server and it was pretty easy to port.
Basically what I've decided is that if you're not a computer guru, then you're going to spend more time screwing with Linux than you will be using it. I've seen people spend entire weekends trying to get some wild window manager working
Oh, and no, there's absolutely no problem booting between Linux and Windows. Linux comes with a nice little boot manager that's a real bitch to figure out at first.
Macintosh: if you even remotely enjoy working in this environment, then we will surely disagree.
Slackmaster 2000