depends...
If you know stuff about linux already and just want to get a system up & running, not really bothered about all the graphical frontends and latest software etc. then go for it
But if you havent tried Linux before, or if you want top-of-the-range stuff, go for aboxed version from a shop - you usually get free tech. support with 'em to help you set it up and install it and so on!
Linux is about kernel 2.4 (?). There is no version number for Linux. There are version numbers for comerical releases of the linux kernel with software bundles. So version 5 of what or who's release. ( Not that it matters.)
. . . the majestic equality of the law, which forbids the rich as well as the poor to sleep under bridges, to beg in the streets, and to steal bread. - Anatole France