Don't take my word for it - try Linux yourself. Since hard disk space has become less expensive, you can probably spare about 500MB (1.0GB approx if you want a graphical interface). Linux can be easily installed on this extra space and can coexist with your existing OS. If you eventually need more space, you can simply delete one of your OSes (and after you see the power of a Linux system, I am confident you won't delete Linux).
As trying a new operating system will take some of your valuable time, it is understandable that you may have reservations. For this reason I have compiled a list of pros and cons of Linux. This should help you decide whether you think it's worth it.
Pros:
It's almost free to relatively inexpensive.
Source code is included.
Bugs are fixed quickly.
Linux is more stable than other modern operating systems.
Linux is truly multi-user and multi-tasking.
Help is readily available.
Linux comes with commercial-grade applications that make office work simple.
Linux has internet connectivity built in.
Linux runs on equipment that other operating systems consider too underpowered.
Cons:
My ______ program won't run on Linux.
Isn't as popular as Windows.
No one commercial company is responsible for Linux.
This was taken from A Linux User Group's website as I thought it was a very good summary .