Get Linux Mint Cinnamon. You can dual boot it with other OS. You can install it on a USB 3.0 flash drive 64gb or bigger. Your laptop can be USB 2.0.
You can run it from a live DVD or USB. So as to check out compatibility with your hardware device. You can't go wrong with it. Run #Timeshift religiously. It's like Windows system restore.
Then enjoy running a computer again..😂🐧