Linux-compatible laptops

2.1 Lenovo

The classic go-to Linux laptop. Are they still… working? Is that a thing? I checked out of that question ages ago. Sounds like Linux compatibility is contested, but certain hardware configurations do support Linux, AFAICT the less fashionable ones. Plus side: can be purchased from a local vendor in Australia.

2.2 ASUS

Asus laptop support is, I am told, pretty good these days. No specific recommendations.

2.3 Tuxedo

TUXEDO Computers ships Notebooks and runs their own KDE/Ubuntu-based distro, TUXEDO_OS, which seems to be Ubuntu minus the telemetry and random other apps.

They claim they will support Snapdragon ARM soon.

2.4 System76

System76 are the creators of Pop!OS which has many nice features for my own workflow. They also have their own alternate desktop environment COSMIC.

The Darter Pro or Lemur models appear to have enough Thunderbolt support for eGPUs without arsing about having internal GPUs.

Only Intel for now.

Deserves its own page.

2.5 Framework

Introducing the Framework Laptop:

the Framework Laptop offers unparalleled options to upgrade, customize and repair:

• Our Expansion Card system makes adapters a thing of the past, letting you choose exactly the ports you want and which side of the notebook you want them on. With four bays, you can select from USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, DisplayPort, MicroSD, ultra-fast storage, a high-end headphone amp, and more.
• Along with socketed storage, WiFi, and two slots of memory, the entire mainboard can be swapped to boost performance as we launch updated versions with new CPU generations.
• High-use parts like the battery, screen, keyboard, and colour-customizable magnetic-attach bezel are easy to replace. QR codes on each item take you directly to guides and the listing in our web store.
• In addition to releasing new upgrades regularly, we’re opening up the ecosystem to enable a community of partners to build and sell compatible modules through the Framework Marketplace.

Strong hype and a veneer of sustainability.

Sounds like they are targeting Windows especially. I wonder how well it runs Linux? Mostly ok, apparently. I also wonder whether it is swimming against the tide of verifiable hardware to be so interchangeable.

Has started shipping..

2.6 Razer Blade

A long intermittently-tolerably-successful project of mine: keeping the Razer Blade 2017 behaving itself as a Linux machine..

Since some OS update, random USB devices have been failing to resume after suspend. OTOH the machine frequently fails to suspend, and sometimes will run at full temperature with the lid closed and everything unplugged, which puts you at risk of data loss, hardware damage and also your house burning down.

Also, the local Australian service agent (who is licensed by Razer but nothing to do with them really) ghosted me last time I tried to exchange cash for hardware repair. I worked it out myself with parts from eBay. On the previous occasion, they reformatted my hard drive which was fine, I have backups, but there was nothing wrong with the HDD just the power regulator, so it felt vindictive.

Impressive hardware overall, but no longer recommended because of the overhead of maintaining a minority laptop configuration functioning when it is not especially well-adapted to my OS.

2.7 Dell

I hear that Dell does Linux laptops, but they are shy about that in Australia. Dell XPS 13, for example, was a model I heard recommended a lot, but conspicuously does not mention Linux support, and my colleague who uses them has occasional firmware update dramas.

2.8 Librem

Librem is a Linux laptop that claims hardware that is as open as possible, i.e. more open than System76 who at least aim for open firmware but make some compromises. Librem aims to make Check out their security blog to get the vibe.

Sounds like it pairs well with a hardened OS.

2.9 MNT Reform

MNT Reform is an ARM laptop with swappable parts that is even more open than Librem. Its tech specs are as mundane as its ideological specs are impressive. (Performance-wise, essentially an overgrown Raspberry Pi?)

Nonetheless, it looks soothingly simple — it must be, to be assembled by such a tiny team (Four Berliners), and that elegance is definitely attractive. This feels like a machine that one can come closer to understanding.