As someone who spent years searching for the best Linux-supported devices, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with various laptops, each claiming to be the ideal choice for Linux users.
Through trial and error, extensive research, and a passion for open-source technology, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge about what truly makes a laptop stand out in the Linux universe.
Today, I’m here to share my two cents and guide you through the maze of options to help you find the best Linux laptop that suits your needs, whether you’re a developer, a creative professional, or just a Linux enthusiast.
1. Dell XPS 13 7390 – Editor’s Pick
I must say, the Dell XPS 13 7390, left quite the mark for me. From the moment I tested it, I was sure I had something good in my hands. The 13.3-inch InfinityEdge display is a marvel, offering vibrant colors and crisp details that make everything from browsing to binge-watching a delight.
The nearly borderless display ensures that despite the compact size, the visual experience is expansive and immersive.
Performance-wise, the Dell XPS 13 7390 has been nothing short of impressive. Its storage also contributes to its speedy performance, offering quick boot times and efficient data access. For someone who values productivity, this has been a game-changer.
Another aspect I adore about the Dell XPS 13 7390 is its portability. It’s incredibly lightweight and slim, making it the perfect companion for my on-the-go lifestyle. Despite its small footprint, it doesn’t compromise on connectivity, offering two Thunderbolt 3 ports, a USB-C 3.1 port, and a microSD card reader.
In my experience, it stands out as the best option in the market for anyone seeking a high-performance, stylish, and portable computing device.
Features:
- InfinityEdge Non-Touch Anti-Glare Display
- Up to 32GB LPDDR5 RAM
- 1-Year Dell Warranty
- 256GB SSD storage
- Compact and lightweight design
- Powerful processing capabilities
- Long battery life
- Premium build quality
- Ample storage capacity
- Uses an older version of Ubuntu
- No SD card slot for storage expansion
- Integrated graphics may not be suitable for heavy gaming
2. HP 17 Business Laptop
The HP 17 Business Laptop is a high-performance machine designed for professionals who need a reliable, powerful, and efficient device for their work. This laptop is powered by the Intel Quad-Core i5-10210U processor, which can reach speeds of up to 4.2GHz, ensuring smooth and speedy performance for all your tasks.
The laptop comes with a 17.3″ HD+ (1600×900) Display, which offers clear and vibrant visuals, making it perfect for presentations, video conferences, or even for watching movies during your downtime. It also features an integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620, which can handle graphic-intensive tasks with ease.
The HP 17 Business Laptop runs on Linux Mint Cinnamon, a user-friendly and highly customizable operating system. It also comes with a 1TB HDD and 16GB DDR4 SDRAM, providing ample storage space and memory for all your files and applications. The laptop also features a built-in HD 720p Webcam with a Microphone and Bluetooth Version 4.2, making it perfect for remote work or online meetings.
Features:
- Intel Core i5-10210U Processor (up to 4.2GHz)
- 1TB HDD and 16GB DDR4 SDRAM
- 17.3″ HD+ (1600×900) Display, Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Built-in HD 720p Webcam with Microphone and Bluetooth Version 4.2
- Linux Mint Cinnamon 64-Bit Operating System
- Powerful processing capabilities
- High level of customization
- Efficient cooling system
- Multiple Linux distributions are available
- Higher price point compared to other laptops in its category: The HP 17 Business Laptop is a bit pricier than other laptops with similar specifications.
- Upgrades can significantly increase the price: While the laptop comes with a 1TB HDD and 16GB DDR4 SDRAM, upgrading these components can significantly increase the overall cost of the laptop.
3. Lenovo Business 15″ – Best Aluminum Style Laptop
The Lenovo Business 15″ Laptop is a powerful and versatile machine designed for business professionals and tech enthusiasts alike. Powered by the Intel Core i7-1065G7 processor with an 8M cache and speeds of up to 3.90 GHz, this laptop ensures smooth and efficient performance for all your computing needs. It comes pre-installed with the Linux Mint (Cinnamon) 64-Bit operating system, offering a user-friendly interface and robust security features.
The laptop boasts a 15.6″ HD non-touch display that delivers clear and vibrant visuals. It is equipped with a 1TB Hard Disk Drive, providing ample storage space for all your files and applications. With 20GB DDR4 SDRAM, it offers seamless multitasking capabilities. The built-in HD 720p webcam with a microphone makes it perfect for video conferencing and virtual meetings.
The Lenovo Business 15″ Laptop is designed with a full number pad, making data entry and calculations a breeze. It also features a variety of I/O ports, including USB 2.0, USB 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 1.4b, a card reader, and a headphone/microphone combo jack. The laptop also supports fast charging, ensuring you’re always ready to work or play.
Features:
- Powerful Intel Core i7-1065G7 Processor
- Large 1TB Hard Disk Drive
- 20GB DDR4 SDRAM for efficient multitasking
- Variety of I/O ports for connectivity
- Pre-installed Linux Mint (Cinnamon) 64-Bit OS
- Lightweight and durable chassis
- Powerful processing capabilities
- Exceptional battery life
- High level of customization
- Excellent Linux compatibility
- Lacks a touchscreen display
- Limited integrated graphics capabilities
4. Lenovo Thinkpad 15″ – The Ultimate Business Companion
The Lenovo Laptop 15.6 inch is a high-performance laptop that combines power and versatility. It is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 processor, ensuring smooth and efficient performance for all your computing needs. This laptop is designed to handle a variety of tasks, from everyday computing to more demanding applications, making it an excellent choice for both professionals and students.
This laptop features a 15.6-inch screen with a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 pixels, providing clear and vibrant visuals. It comes with a solid-state drive (SSD), which offers faster data access and boot times compared to traditional hard drives. The laptop runs on the Linux operating system, known for its robust security features and user-friendly interface.
The Lenovo Laptop 15.6 inch is equipped with multiple USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports, allowing you to connect a variety of peripherals. It also comes with an integrated graphics card, which can handle everyday graphics needs. This laptop is designed to provide a balance of performance and portability, making it an excellent choice for those who need a reliable computing device.
Features:
- AMD Ryzen 7 Processor
- 15.6-inch Screen with 1920×1080 Pixels Resolution
- Solid-State Drive (SSD) Storage
- Linux Operating System
- Powerful processing and graphics capabilities
- High level of customization
- Choice of two screen sizes
- Multiple Linux distributions are available
- No touchscreen functionality
- Limited integrated graphics
5. Lenovo Business S340
The Lenovo Business S340 Laptop is a versatile and powerful device designed to cater to all your business needs. It is powered by an Intel Core i5-8265U processor, which ensures smooth and efficient performance. This laptop is equipped with a 15.6″ FHD non-touch anti-glare display that offers clear and vibrant visuals. It runs on the Linux Mint (Cinnamon) 64-bit operating system, which is known for its robust security features and user-friendly interface.
This laptop features a 256GB solid-state drive that offers faster data access and boot times compared to traditional hard drives. It also comes with 8GB DDR4 SDRAM, which ensures efficient multitasking. The laptop is equipped with an Intel UHD 620 integrated graphics coprocessor that can handle everyday graphics needs. It also features a 720p HD webcam with a privacy shutter, providing you with a secure and high-quality video conferencing experience.
The Lenovo Business S340 Laptop comes with a full number pad keyboard, making it ideal for professionals who frequently work with numbers. It also features a variety of I/O ports, including two USB 3.0 ports, one USB 3.1 Type-C port, a headphone/mic combo port, a 4-in-1 card reader, and an HDMI port. This laptop also supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly recharge your device and get back to work.
Features:
- 8GB DDR4 SDRAM
- Linux Mint (Cinnamon) 64-Bit Operating System
- Robust Intel Core i5 Processor
- Fast 256GB SSD Storage
- High-quality 720p HD Webcam
- Supports Fast Charging
- The battery has a small capacity
- Overheats after a fair use of it
6. Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Laptop
The most appealing aspect of the Linux operating system is that it is entirely free. As a result, a laptop as inexpensive as this Dell Inspiron is a good match. There is one piece of fantastic news. Dell has now started selling laptops with pre-installed Linux operating systems. In this series, Dell Inspiron 15 3000 is one of the finest. It is pocket-friendly and works smoothly.
However, you cannot do some heavy work on it. It is apt for daily and straightforward use. A low-end Intel Celeron processor powers this laptop. The RAM is 8GB which is qualified for regular use.
A 1080p monitor is enclosed within the plastic casing, which is uncommon at this pricing point. You are getting a high-definition display with this one. It comes with natural colors and makes the experience more magical.
The viewing angle is also vast, which makes it easy to watch videos. The keyboard is relatively comfy. It comes with two speakers that provide strong sound, allowing you to listen to a wide range of songs. There’s also a slew of several USB connections that you can use.
The laptop’s combination of outstanding features makes it vital to run practically any application or program without any lags or glitches. If you are looking for a low-cost Linux laptop for standard functions, though, I will find enough to like.
Features:
- Faster bootup
- Faster data transfer
- Anti-glare LED-Backlit
- Affordable price
- Decent performance for basic tasks
- Good battery life
- Plenty of ports and connectivity options
- Sturdy build quality
- Low-resolution display
- Limited storage space and RAM
- Heavy and bulky design
- Not suitable for running heavy applications or games
7. LENOVO Latest ThinkPad X1 Carbon
A friend of mine recently got the LENOVO Latest ThinkPad X1, and I had the chance to take a closer look at it. At first glance, its sleek design and lightweight build caught my attention. The vibrant touchscreen display offers clarity and precision, making it a treat for the eyes.
One of the standout features is the fingerprint reader, ensuring enhanced security. The device also boasts Thunderbolt 4 ports, which are known for their high-speed data transfer capabilities. Even though battery life is commendable, it might not last an entire day for heavy users.
Also, the price point might be a tad steep for some, but considering the features and build quality, it seems justified.
Features:
- Sleek and lightweight design.
- Vibrant touchscreen display.
- Fingerprint reader for enhanced security.
- Thunderbolt 4 ports for high-speed data transfer.
- Reliable battery life.
- Premium build quality
- Intuitive user interface
- Enhanced security features
- Smooth performance
- Future-proof ports
- Slightly higher price bracket
- Might require occasional optimization
8. HP 15-cs3019nr Pavilion
Having used the HP 15-cs3019nr Pavilion for a while now, I must say it’s a device that truly stands out from that generation of laptops. The first thing that caught my attention was its sleek Mineral Silver design, which gives it a premium look.
The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS Bright View micro-edge WLED-backlit display is simply stunning, offering vibrant colors and sharp visuals. With the 10th Generation Intel Core i7-1065G7 processor, multitasking is a breeze, and I’ve never experienced any lag.
The ultra-fast gigabit Wi-Fi 6 ensures smooth video meetings, even on crowded networks. And the inclusion of Amazon Alexa is a delightful touch, making daily tasks even more convenient.
The BIOS recovery and protection feature is a testament to HP’s commitment to security, ensuring the device’s health is always in check. The battery life is commendable, lasting up to 10 hours on mixed usage.
Overall, it’s a device that’s built for professionals who demand power and performance.
Features:
- 15.6-inch diagonal Full HD IPS Bright
- View micro-edge WLED-backlit display.
- 10th Generation Intel Core i7-1065G7 processor.
- Ultra-fast gigabit Wi-Fi 6 (2×2) and Bluetooth 5.
- BIOS recovery and protection.
- 512 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD internal storage.
- 16 GB DDR4-2666 SDRAM.
- Up to 10 hours of battery life.
- HP fast charge: 0 to 50% charge in 45 minutes.
- Stunning Full HD display
- Ultra-fast Wi-Fi 6
- Powerful 10th Gen Intel Core
- Amazon Alexa integration
- Impressive battery life
- Limited upgradeability
- Slightly heavy
9. ASUS ZenBook 13
Having spent considerable time going through online reviews and feedback, I’ve come to appreciate the ASUS ZenBook 13 for what it offers. This device is a testament to the balance between performance and portability.
It’s incredibly similar in dimensions to some of the leading brands out there, so much so that many have mistaken it for a high-end device from another brand.
The all-metal construction gives it a sturdy feel, and the keyboard is a pleasure to type on, especially when compared to some of the newer models out there. The battery life is commendable, lasting between 4-6 hours depending on usage, and it charges up pretty quickly.
The device also boasts a range of essential ports, making connectivity a breeze. The fingerprint reader is a nice touch, ensuring quick and secure access. While the speakers could be better positioned, the screen is sharp and bright, making for an enjoyable viewing experience.
The device boots up in record time, thanks to the 500GB SSD, and the 8th Gen i5 processor ensures smooth performance for most tasks. Overall, this device feels refined and well-constructed, making it a top choice for those seeking a blend of performance and portability.
Features:
- 13.3” wide-view Full-HD NanoEdge bezel display.
- Intel Core i5-8265U Processor (up to 3.9 GHz).
- 512GB PCIe M.2 SSD and 8GB LPDDR3 RAM.
- HDMI, USB Type C, Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Micro SD card reader.
- Lightweight 2.5 lbs aluminum body.
- Backlit Keyboard and Fingerprint Scanner.
- Sharp and bright display
- Quick boot and efficient processor
- Sturdy all-metal construction
- Reliable battery life
- Convenient fingerprint reader
- Speakers could be better placed
- High-res causes GUI scaling issues
Buyer’s Guide
It used to be challenging to locate a laptop that can efficiently run on a Linux operating system, but now things have changed. However, please be sure that the one you choose has all of the features you need.
Because of the robust and highly adaptable nature of Linux, ordinary consumers have begun to convert from Windows and Mac to Linux. But how can you select the most appropriate laptop for your needs?
We’ve compiled this guide to assist you in determining what to look for when purchasing a Linux laptop.
Pre-installed Linux operating system
A pre-installed Linux operating system is notable for its ease of use, allowing users, especially those unfamiliar with Linux, to avoid the complexities of the installation process. This user-friendly approach is particularly beneficial for those who may find installing operating systems to be intimidating or cumbersome.
Linux, being open-source, offers a plethora of distributions, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences. Many manufacturers provide systems with a variety of these distributions pre-installed, enabling users to select the one that aligns best with their needs.
This diversity in options is a defining feature of Linux operating systems.
Another significant advantage of having Linux pre-installed is the assurance of hardware compatibility. This reduces the chances of users encountering driver or hardware compatibility issues, which can be a common challenge when manually installing Linux distributions.
All these benefits will result in the further expansion of this operating system. By 2030, the global Linux operating system market will touch $66.28 billion.
Compatible With Open Source
If you have made your preferences about the laptops in mind and have decided which laptop you want to go for, then the next step comes. You have to check whether that laptop is compatible with Linux or not.
You can look in a variety of locations. So, look into the details of the product before purchasing it.
Requirement
Before purchasing the Linux laptop, one critical point to keep in mind is what it would be used for. This is important because the type of work you’ll be doing on a Linux laptop may influence the system you purchased.
For example, if you want to play games on your laptop or other heavy work that requires sophisticated technology, then you’ll have to spend a little more money than if you’re going to use it for everyday tasks.
Battery Life
The importance of battery life in Linux laptops is crucial as it significantly impacts the user experience and the device’s overall functionality and efficiency.
Good battery life is pivotal for enhanced portability, allowing users to experience the convenience of using their laptops on the go, especially beneficial for those who travel frequently or work in different locations.
It enables a flexible work environment by allowing users to work or entertain themselves without being constantly tethered to a power outlet, thus fostering adaptability and mobility.
This is particularly important for professionals and students who rely on their laptops to accomplish tasks and meet deadlines, where uninterrupted power supply can lead to increased productivity and efficiency.
CPU
The CPU is the brain of any computer or laptop. It is responsible for all the work that a computer does. So, much importance must be given to it as it is responsible for executing many computer activities.
Random-access memory
After CPU, another essential factor that determines the smooth functioning of a Linux laptop is the random access memory. It makes sure that any activity you are doing runs smoothly.
If you want to run all your applications properly, then you will need 4GB RAM. But if you’re going to do some high-end activities such as playing games, editing, then 8GB RAM is required.
Storage
Not much space is needed for a Linux laptop. So, you can work with any Hard disc. But if you have some specific requirements like playing video games and other stuff, you must have storage of 1TB or 500GB.
Security
Security and privacy are some of the most significant concerns nowadays. So, if you want your data to be safe, you must look for a laptop with a high-security factor.
Go for a laptop that has a fingerprint scanner. It will stop any illegal access and also make your work more secure.
FAQs
Is Linux pre-installed on any laptops?
Yes, there are some of them that come pre-installed with Linux. These are often referred to as “Linux laptops” or “Linux-certified”. Some manufacturers, such as Dell and System76, offer a selection of ones that come with Linux pre-installed, and there are also smaller companies that specialize in selling Linux laptops.
However, they are still a niche market and most of them come with Windows pre-installed as the default operating system. It’s also worth noting that even if a laptop does not come pre-installed with Linux, it is often possible to install Linux on it after purchase.
Is antivirus required for Linux?
Although antivirus software is not required on Linux OS, some individuals nevertheless advocate it as a precaution. Again antivirus software is not necessary because infections are uncommon, and Linux is intrinsically safer. But it is totally up to the user.
Is Linux supported on all laptops?
No, Linux is not supported on all of them. Some manufacturers do not provide Linux compatibility or support, and some models may have hardware components that are not compatible with Linux.
However, many manufacturers do provide Linux support, and there are also many Linux distributions and communities that provide drivers and support for a wide range of hardware. It’s always best to research a laptop’s Linux compatibility before making a purchase, especially if you plan on using Linux as your operating system.
Is it true that Linux makes a laptop faster?
In some cases, Linux can make a laptop faster than running other operating systems. This is because Linux is often more lightweight and streamlined than other operating systems, such as Windows or macOS.
Linux typically requires less system resources to run, which means it can run more efficiently on older or less powerful hardware.
Additionally, Linux allows for greater customization and control over system settings, which can also contribute to faster performance.
However, it’s important to note that not all laptops will see a noticeable speed boost when running Linux, and performance will depend on a variety of factors, including hardware specifications and software configuration.
Epilogue
As we wrap up this journey through the world of Linux laptops, I hope my insights and experiences have shed some light on the best options out there for you. Remember, the ideal Linux laptop is one that aligns with your specific needs, whether it’s for professional development, creative endeavors, or everyday use.
It’s about finding that perfect balance of hardware compatibility, performance, and user experience. As a Linux enthusiast and an expert in this field, I encourage you to explore, experiment, and embrace the freedom and flexibility that Linux offers.
Whichever laptop you choose, you’re stepping into the field of endless possibilities and a community of passionate, like-minded individuals.