To index file paths: GNU locate. It’s also quick to create the index with updatedb. To search: locate <part of path>. Ie: locate artist.flac
Check out https://laptopwithlinux.com/ - new or used.
Haven’t looked recently but have a look at Laptops with Linux.
Assuming you’re on Fedora 40: sudo dnf install dnf5
It depends on your priorities, hardware, use cases etc. Honestly it’s unlikely to be the determining factor. Available hardware and software support and your attitude to risk are probably more important. Fedora is a cutting edge distro with good reliability and is feature rich. It’s upstream of Red Hat Enterprise Linux so has massive support behind it and a large user base. There are multiple spins if you want GNOME or KDE or an immutable OS etc. Adding additional repos such as RPMfusion make adding Nvidia and other proprietary drivers a breeze. As with most things GNU/Linux you need to be prepared to put in the effort to take control of your digital life. It’s not easy but well worth it.
“dnf -C …” may change your life!
GNU’s Not UNIX
New bugs. Excellent!