I’m running Linux Mint 21.1 XFCE on an old 2008 Thinkpad T400, updated with maxed-out DDR-1600 RAM and SATA III SSD drive.
It runs like a champ — probably faster than it did under its original (*gag*) Windows Vista configuration.
It does just fine with basic light office use (LibreOffice), web surfing (Firefox) and sending e-mails (Thunderbird).
It also offers the option of more in-depth Linux learning if needed. LOVE IT.
I am doing the same with Mint cinnamon on a 2008 HP Pavillion.