Extreme Clickbait: The Best Linux Laptops for Every Need
Not Ideal for Gaming or Video Editing, But Perfect for Everything Else
Lemur Pro may not be the go-to choice for graphics-intensive tasks like gaming or video editing, but it definitely stands out as one of the top laptops for all other purposes.
Lightweight and Linux-Ready: Dell XPS 13 Developer Edition
Leading the way as one of the first Linux-enabled laptops, Dell’s XPS 13 Developer Edition remains unparalleled in its lightweight design and Linux compatibility. With an impressive configuration featuring Intel’s 12th-Generation i7-1250U processor, 32 GB of RAM, and a 1-TB SSD, this laptop comes pre-installed with Ubuntu Linux 20.04. Despite Dell’s limited official support for other distributions, it proved to run smoothly with various alternatives like Fedora and Arch Linux.
Power and Portability: System76’s Pangolin
If you’re looking for a laptop that combines power with ample connectivity options, then System76’s Pangolin is the perfect choice. With its 15-inch screen and AMD Ryzen 7 6800U processor, this laptop delivers exceptional performance. It comes equipped with 32 GB of RAM and a 250-GB SSD, which can be expanded up to a whopping 8 TB. The battery life may not match up to Dell’s XPS 13, but the keyboard offers a delightful typing experience. Moreover, the Pangolin boasts an array of ports, including Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI 2.0, USB-C, USB-A, and SD card reader.
Upgradeability and Future-Proofing: Framework’s Laptop
If you prefer a laptop that allows for easy upgrades and ensures future-proofing, Framework’s Laptop is your best bet. This highly customizable laptop offers various options, including Intel Core 13th-Gen processors, up to 32 GB of RAM, and a 2-TB SSD. You can choose your preferred mix of ports and operating system, making it an ideal Linux rig. While its battery life leaves room for improvement, the Laptop performs exceptionally well with both Ubuntu and Arch Linux.
The Powerhouse: System76 Oryx Pro
For those seeking unmatched power and performance, the System76 Oryx Pro takes the crown. Available in either 15-inch or 17-inch models, this laptop features 12th-Gen Intel processors and Nvidia graphics (3070 Ti or 3080 Ti GPU). With options for a glossy OLED 4K screen, up to 64 GB of RAM, and up to 8 TB of SSD storage, the Oryx Pro stands as the most powerful laptop on this list. It comes pre-installed with either System76’s Pop_OS! or Ubuntu Linux, and its Intel chip ensures open source firmware.
Sleekness and Sophistication: Lenovo X1 Carbon Linux Edition
The Lenovo X1 Carbon Linux Edition oozes sophistication with its sleek design, appealing to those who admire the ThinkPad’s elegance. However, this elegance does come at a higher price point. Featuring a 13th-Gen Intel Core i7 processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a 256-GB SSD, this laptop offers top-notch performance. Its 2K OLED screen adds to the visual experience, although battery life remains a drawback. For those who appreciate the finesse of the ThinkPad, the X1 Carbon Linux Edition proves to be a worthwhile investment.
Affordability and Flexibility: Give New Life to Old Laptops
Linux’s advantage lies in its ability to run on older hardware, making it cost-effective and ideal for breathing new life into old laptops. Brands like Lenovo, Dell, and Asus offer excellent options for Linux usage, and buying used laptops on platforms like eBay can save you a substantial amount of money. Make sure to refer to our guide for purchasing used laptops on eBay to ensure a wise investment.