While having a feel of Linux, laptop users initially used to install it in their slow Windows laptops. Subsequently, they wouldn't have the pleasure of fully enjoying the beauty of this open-source system. Therefore, if you desire to reap the full benefit of Linux, it is recommended that you get the best laptop for Linux.
Also, you might be interested in the power and versatility of Linux but don't know where to get the best laptops for Linux. Therefore, we have compiled and reviewed the Best Laptop for Linux, their features, pros, and cons. In addition, we have further curated the benefits of using Linux and factors to check before getting the perfect laptop for Linux.
What are the Best Linux Laptops?
1. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon
- Outstanding Battery Life: Rated Up to 19.5 hours (MM14) and Up to 13.5 hours (MM18) by MobileMark 2014, an industry standard PC performance benchmark. Actual results will vary depending on your system’s usage and settings, including power management and screen brightness.
- With WiFi 6 AX201 802.11AX (2 x 2) Wireless, you get fast and reliable connections, even on networks with lots of devices attached. Rapid Charge boosts battery life up to 80% in just an hour. Weighs only 2.40 lbs
- HD 720p webcam with ThinkShutter privacy cover, Fingerprint Reader, Backlit Spill resistant US English Keyboard, Bluetooth 5.0, Dolby Atmos Speaker System, 4 x 360-degree far-field microphones
- Ports: 2 x USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2) Intel Thunderbolt 3 (DisplayPort, Data transfer), 2 x USB 3.2 (Gen 1) (1 always on), HDMI 1.4, Network extension for Ethernet/side mechanical docking, Headphone / mic combo
- Tested against 12 military-grade requirements from the Arctic wilderness to desert dust storms, from zero gravity to spills and drops, you can trust this laptop to handle whatever life throws your way.
If your preference for Linux is driven by an accompanying reputable brand, then Lenovo 8th generation ThinkPad X1 Carbon would be a great choice. Like other best Linux laptops, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon for Linux offers more security and privacy, unlike its Windows counterpart. Also, this Linux laptop has an in-built Fedora 32 OS, 1 TB PCIe SSD, a 10th Gen Intel Core i7 CPU, and 16GB of LPDDR3 RAM. Other of its version may also come with Intel's i5 chip.
Additionally, it has an excellent battery life that is rated to run up to 19 hours. However, when running on a Fedora OS, you can expect it to last up to 13 hours. Despite this standard rated battery life, actual battery consumption will vary across different users depending on usage and power management configurations. Finally, having all this incredible hardware, this laptop is lightweight with a damage-proof casing to protect it against spills, drops, and other harsh conditions.
2. Dell XPS 13"7390
- 13.3" Touchscreen InfinityEdge Full HD (1920 x 1080) Display, Intel UHD Graphics
- 10th Gen Intel Core i5-10210U Processor, 8GB RAM, 256GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD
- 2x Thunderbolt 3 with PowerDelivery & Display Port, 1x USB-C 3.1, 1x MicroSD Card Reader
- Backlit Keyboard, Fingerprint Reader, Stereo Speakers with MaxxAudio Pro
- Windows 10 Home 64bit
The XPS 13 ranks as one of the best Linux laptops in the market with the reliability mark of its reputation as an Ultrabook. This laptop is already in use among windows 10 users with a variety of customization. However, the Linux version has limited customizations. At the basic level, this laptop comes with 10th gen Intel Core i5 Processor, 8GB of RAM with room for upgrading to 16 GB RAM (at an extra cost), 256GB PCIe solid-state storage, and an Ubuntu distro.
The Exterior for the Linux version comes in a single style of platinum silver with a carbon-fiber black palmrest. Moreover, it has a backlit keypad and a scratch-free screen and casing.
3. Lenovo ThinkPad P53 Mobile Workstation
- Intel Core i7-8565U 1. 80GHz Processor (8th Gen, upto 4. 60 GHz, 8MB Smart Cache, 4-Cores) ; 16GB DDR4 SODIMM RAM
- NVIDIA Quadro P520 2GB GDDR5 Integrated Graphics
- 15. 6" Full HD (1920x1080) Display; 802. 11ac Wifi, Bluetooth 5. 0, Ethernet LAN (RJ-45), 720p HD Webcam, Fingerprint Security System, Black Color
- 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD; 2xUSB3. 1, 1xHDMI, 1xThunderbolt Port, 1xType-C USB, Micro SD Reader, 3. 5mm Combo Jack. , Windows 10 Pro-64, 3-Cell 57 WHr Battery, 1 Year Manufacturer from GreatPriceTech (Professionally upgraded by GreatPriceTech)
- Includes Portable USB 3. 0 Data Hub
This device is another Lenovo ThinkPad laptop with Linux. Linux users would love this exceptionally solid machine for its high processing capacity and stunning graphics. These incredible features are enabled by its 8th Generation Intel Core i7 CPU and 16 GB DDR4 RAM, making it fast in processing. As a result, this machine can be widely used in gaming, content creation, and video production.
Also, this laptop has a 15.6 inch 4K screen with DCI-P3 100% color gamut and HDR. If you desire to customize this machine, you can reinforce it with a 9th gen Intel Core i7 chip, Nvidia Quadro graphics card (T1000 or T2000), additional memory, and SSD storage. This beast of a machine can adequately provide you with a desktop type of performance with its robustness and adequate battery life to match its functionality. After purchase, the manufacturer offers a 7-days replacement grace period.
4. Asus Chromebook Flip c434
- 14 inch Touchscreen FHD 1920x1080 4-way NanoEdge display featuring ultra-narrow bezels (5mm thin) around each side of the display that allows for a 14 inch screen to fit in the body of a 13inch laptop footprint.
- The FHD display has a durable 360 degree hinge that can be used to flip the touchscreen display to tent, stand, and tablet mode.
- Powered by the Intel Core m3-8100Y Processor (up to 3.4 GHz) for super-fast and snappy performance. If you use a ton of tabs or run lots of apps, this has the power to get it all done with ease.
- 4GB DDR3 RAM; 64GB eMMC storage and 2x USB Type-C (Gen 1) and 1s Type-A (Gen 1) ports plus a super bright backlit keyboard.
- The lightweight (3lbs) all-aluminum metal body makes the C434 both durable and beautiful for a timeless look that will never go out of style.
Asus Chromebook Flip c434 is another great option in the line of best Linux laptops. Firstly, it ranks as the best Linux laptop because it is budget-friendly and gives you a feel of Linux. Additionally, at its affordable price, it can run Chrome OS and Ubuntu simultaneously. However, a Chromebook can run Linux apps but slower than traditional Linux Computers.
Secondly, this machine comes with the specifications of 8GB memory, Core m3 CPU, and a storage of 64 GB that adequately supports the parallel running of Chrome OS and Ubuntu. If you wish to customize it, it is possible to add more SSD storage, memory, and i5 CPU but at your own cost. Another standout feature of this product is the 360-degree hinge that allows you to use it as a tablet with the same 14-inch touch display.
5. ASUS VivoBook S15 S532
- ScreenPad 2.0 adds an interactive secondary 5.65” touchscreen to enhance productivity
- ScreenPad 2.0 fits a series of handy ASUS utility apps: Quick Key, Number Key, Handwriting, Slide Xpert, etc.
- 15.6” Full HD NanoEdge bezel display with stunning 88% screen-to-body ratio and 5.65” Full HD ScreenPad 2.0
- Powerful Intel Core i7-10510U Processor (8M Cache, up to 4.9 GHz)
- NVIDIA GeForce MX250 discrete graphics with Windows 10 Home
Another fantastic option under the ASUS brand is the VivoBook S15. It is also an efficient laptop for dual-boot setups with an Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB DDR4 RAM, and a 1 TB SSD. Moreover, its excellent graphics are enabled through the NVIDIA GeForce MX250.
Other hardware packed in this incredible laptop for Linux includes a tough screen pad for increased productivity while using it and a unique 15.6-inch display made with an enhanced viewing angle. In addition, it comes in different colors and is suitable for business, lightweight personal uses, and gaming.
Why you Need the Best Laptop For Linux
1. Secure
In comparison to other operating systems like Windows, Linux presents a lower vulnerability to different attacks. This premise means that it is more secure but not completely invulnerable. Its guarantee of increased computer security is enabled through its working frameworks of package management and repositories, among other features.
2. Reliability
By design, Linux is superior in reliability to its competitors, such as Windows 10. For instance, you don't have to worry about lags, crashes, or re-installations for smooth running on Linux. However, this premise is different in windows, where you will need re-installation in the event of crashes or lags. Additionally, with windows, the system will often re-boot to install software and update or uninstall software.
On the contrary, Linux runs smoothly for longer despite any updates or software installations and uninstallations. Thus, reliability is evident because your Linux system will continue working normally and smoothly without bothering you with re-boots. Furthermore, it would interest you to know that Facebook and Google use Linux because it has reliable web servers. Therefore, if such internet giants use Linux, you can adequately use it for other heavy-duty computing tasks.
Of course, Linux also has its issues, but it is the best on reliability count. You can try one of the distros like ubuntu-based pop _os to taste the reliability of Linux.
3. Privacy
Coming from a premise of Windows 10, you might be worried that your persona data is constantly being collected by default. On this account, Linux offers you better privacy without endless data collection. A good number of Linux laptops feature the best use privacy such as with the help of kill switches physically disconnect mics and camera when they detect suspicious activity. For instance, the Purism Librem 14 uses the Linux PureOS to optimize its privacy and security.
Additionally, the open-source nature of Linux gives users adequate freedom to manage functionality. As a result, you can manage the personal data retrieved from your device.
4. Better Community Support
Last but not least, with Linux, you are bound to experience a supportive online community. If you encounter an issue with the Linux operating system, you can easily find a solution by searching threads with similar issues. This collaborative feature saves you the energy and time you would take to research solutions at absolutely no cost.
What to Consider Before Purchasing the Best Laptop for Linux
1. Compatibility
When buying a Linux laptop that doesn't have a pre-installed Linux distribution, consider checking its compatibility with the Linux distro of your choice. In most cases, distribution systems usually include a variety of tested laptops to eliminate uncertainty and risk on the part of the user. Mostly, the two Linux support components that might probably trouble you are the Network adapter and GPU.
In case you encounter some compatibility issues, you can still find solutions. First, the open-source mechanism of Linux will help you in finding detailed computer compatibility information to overcome possible incompatibilities. Secondly, you can share your compatibility concerns on dedicated forums to find solutions through collaborated troubleshooting and other users' recommendations. Subsequently, you will be able to have adequate information about compatibility before you buy a laptop.
Additionally, the best Linux laptop should have smooth compatibility with audio, touchpad, fingerprint reader, and keyboard. The process of checking compatibility is not easy but very important for smooth running when you buy the laptop of your choice.
2. Linux-Ready Laptops
If you find the process of checking incompatibility to be tedious and you want to avoid incompatibility issues, there is the option of Linux-ready laptops. Best Linux laptops are available with a pre-installed Linux distro, saving you the hassle of configuring your laptop. Therefore, all you need to do is switch on your laptop and load the operating system. Furthermore, this version of Linux laptops comes with a variety of distribution options depending on the manufacturer.
However, these ready laptops may not provide the Linux distribution of your choice, thus providing minimal customization. Mostly, computer manufacturers only provide machines with the latest distros for relevance to prevailing market trends. Consequently, you will want to consider the limited customization that comes with Linux-ready laptops and if the already installed distro suits your requirements.
If you are a beginner with Linux, it is recommended that you get a ready laptop with simple Linux distros like Ubuntu and Linux Mint. These systems will, in turn, provide you with an easier start.
3. General Laptop Internals
Before you buy any laptop, it is always important to ensure that the supporting hardware matches your everyday use. Internals refer to hardware with functions such as storage, graphics, and processing ability. Consequently, the more intensive processing power you need, the more internal capacities you will need. The following are some internals to consider:
a. SSD
Regardless of the distro you are seeking, always ensure your Linux laptop has an SSD. Primarily, the presence of an SSD enables quicker processing abilities, unlike regular spinning disks.
b. RAM
Moreover, you will need to check the RAM before buying any Linux computer. Considerably, the best laptop for Linux should have at least 8 GB of RAM for efficient running.
c. GPU
Additionally, it would be best to get a Linux laptop with an Intel GPU. The Intel GPU is considered appropriate for its open-source compatibility with Linux laptops. However, please note that you cannot automatically change to the integrated GPU if you get a Linux laptop with a discrete GPU.
4. Check Additional Hardware
Contemporary laptops are increasingly becoming enhanced with more utility features. Accordingly, the best Linux laptops should have enhanced features such as a better display and fingerprint reader for improved security. However, while this hardware gives laptops an edge over others in the market, they may not be compatible with Linux.
After you have identified the additional features, ensure that they are compatible with your Linux distro. For instance, Ubuntu can comfortably support fingerprint logins and touch screen utility. After you have checked for compatibility, it might be necessary to download and install the additional drivers to run the identified hardware.
5. Battery Consumption
Users often forget to check the battery capacity of laptops and grumble after purchase that the battery is faulty. However, Linux laptops are known to have high performances making them great battery drainers. Therefore, you should aim to get a laptop with a better battery consumption rate.
Alternatively, you can come up with strategies to apply and optimize power management. Although the truth about power retention kicks in when you use your laptop, you will still need to consider battery consumption while buying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) on the Best Laptop for Linux
1. Can laptops use Linux operating system?
Yes, you can install Linux on most laptops. However, you should ensure that the processing hardware is efficient to run the functions you intend to use Linux for. In addition, you should always ensure to check with the manufacturer's manual if they support Linux to avoid giving an unpleasant encounter with this incredible OS.
2. Should I buy a Linux or Windows laptop?
Considerably, Linux offers you an added advantage in higher processing power, security, and privacy. It might feel out of the usual if you are used to windows, but it is worth it. Eventually, you won't have to go through the occasional re-boots like windows installations and uninstallations.
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