Journal: Easiest Linux???

I'm coming from the OpenVMS and Wintel world. I'm currently also an HP/UX CSE, but would not do production work on any UNIX. I have two old DELL laptops (Inspiron 7500 & Latitude CPi) and am looking to put Linux on one or both - which is the 'easiest' Linux to learn? RedHat, Suse, or Ubuntu (or....). I'm looking to put this on a wireless network with either a CISCO Aironet wireless card or Linksys wireless G adapter card. I know nothing will ever be as easy as VMS and hope Linux will be nowhere as much crap as wintel. Just looking for a happy medium. Flames, advice, abuse welcome.... Thanks....