Which Linux distro and/or desktop environment is the easiest for creating simple hotkeys (for opening programs, etc.) within the GUI?

The question is based on a wrong assumption.

Hotkeys are part of the user interface, usually a graphical user interface, not part of the distribution itself.

The Linux distribution is all about purpose. The graphical user interface is about looks, taste and basic handling.

The question is based on a typical Windows or MacOS basis. You need to adjust your working style to what you get.

Linux is a modular system. Given many Linux distributions offer a number of graphical user interfaces, you don’t choose a distribution for looks. You first choose a distribution for your purpose, then use the graphical user interface that is closest to your working style.

Nobody can tell you, which one that is for you. You can only find that out by trial and error. Most of them are quite versatile in terms of usability and customization.

I guess, most of them offer the option to set keyboard shortcuts. On the other hand, in 25 years I never needed it. Why? Because for beginners I usually use plank and put the most important stuff there. Even on, say, Mate. I have everything there and it’s always around. So, whatever the beginner needs, it’s just one click away.

And personally I use a tiling window manager, that’s completely keyboard driven (in my case I3). It’s all available from the run dialog. Which btw is available for most GUIs too. For example with Alt+F2 on Mate and I think, on XFCE too.

For beginners, Mate is often recommended. XFCE offer more customization options, but according to experience is also slightly less stable.

The Linux Distributions Guide offers you an overview of the distributions and also talks about graphical user interface. In case you have never used Linux, you might want to start with Linux Start For Windows Users (kindle book).

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