Current uses of Linux

I was thinking that there already are a couple ways I use Linux almost every day. TIVO is built on Linux. Also, Google Andriod is as well (I'm pretty sure). And I really like how both of those work.

What's caught my eye now?

I keep getting distracted by different things on the web, thinking I will start doing this or that with my free time. This week it is Linux - I feel like I need to know more about it, how it works, what are its limits. Basically, can an average, mildly technical guy like me use it with no IT support to back it up.

I see that I can buy a pre-installed laptop from Dell for about $350, so that would be my limit. If I'm going forward, it must be for less than $300, all up (including books, software, etc.). This should be easy, right?

I'm starting by reading various websites, hitting as many "Beginners Guides" as I can.

One note (that I plan to come back to). I'm not an angry Windows hater. I think Microsoft is a great company that does great things, both for technology and the greater community. It really bugs me when people argue for Linux on some moral grounds, like only bad people can support "M$". That's crap. I see Linux as a tool, but one that I don't know how to use right now. But I already have a toolbox full of great Microsoft tools - I'm not tossing those out.