I wish to switch from Windows 7 to Ubuntu, and I'm trying to figure which (LTS) release should I use, whether to use the newest (16.04), an older one or one of the light-weight flavours (my computer is a bit old - bought on october 2010). My specs are:
My usage is quite standard - internet, photos, videos, word-processing (mainly using LyX for LaTeX).
Thanks.
The latest LTS (Long Term Support) version would suit you just fine. Go with the 32x version. You can download it from the main download page.
http://www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop
If it's too slow, try LXDE.
sudo apt-get install lxde-desktop
LXDE and openbox will then be available on the login screen. (After you log out, not lock.)
Openbox is fast, LXDE is easy.
With the specs you provided I think a lighter distribution would do well on that machine. Try Lubuntu, it is a great light weight desktop environment that requires very little resources
If you would also like to read what the requirements are to run Ubuntu 16.04, you can start here: Ubuntu installation requirements in most cases it's better to have more Ram then what's required as Ubuntu is developed is also consumes more of our system system resources
I would also recommend sticking with the LTS releases because they are supported for a number of years, here is a chart that will give you a break down on what to expect with LTS releases, LTS, Long Term Support
