Hey there, I've been using Linux for a number of years now, hopping around, as you do, before settling for many years on Xubuntu. Stayed on that for 6-8 years, thereabouts. Hopped a bit more but I've been on LXLE for a couple of years now. It just always seemed to 'just work' if you know what I mean. I did a fresh install for 14.04.4. After initial problems with the proprietary drivers for my video card, I went back and simply added resolutions to the standard driver driver and settled on that. I have to say this thing is running like a dream. I'm slowly getting used to the kicker being at the top (I've resisted that for SO long). 
I must also mention that my wife has also been using Linux for a number of years (due to her not having a choice, haha) and she also has no problems. The stuff she needs is there and just works. 
Whoever is responsible for all of this, keep up the good work.
Cheers, Mal