Give it a go. I use windows, macOS and Linux. Love all three and use all 3.

If you’ve never used Linux before, try Ubuntu or Pop OS. I use pop OS for my dev laptop.

I was in the same position and I felt I’d be happier with AMD. The CPU comparison shows the AMD one is just a little bit better. I decided the top end Ryzen not really worth it as I am not going to be using it for gaming.

Do you know what the stop code is when it blue screens?

I used to have a work Dell laptop that would BSOD multiple times a day because an SK Hynix SSD which Windows booted from needed a driver update - it took months to patch it - so I’d have a try with a different SSD from a different brand, just to rule it out.