The Ultimate Guide to the Top Linux Laptops in 2023
Looking for the ultimate Linux laptop experience in 2023? Check out our top picks: Dell XPS 13 Plus for overall excellence, Star Labs StarLite 11 for budget-friendly option, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 for premium performance, Purism Librem 14 for open-source enthusiasts, and System76 Oryx Pro for gaming enthusiasts
Updated recommendations: We have revised our best overall and best premium choices after careful consideration.
Are you a Linux enthusiast? Opt for a laptop designed specifically for the open-source operating system instead of opting for a Windows laptop and having to perform the installation yourself. These five options are fully compatible with Linux upon purchase.
UPDATE: 10/16/2023
We've reviewed our recommendations, and we have updated our best overall and best premium picks.
Best Linux Laptop Overall See at Dell
Best Budget Linux Laptop Star Labs
Best Premium Linux Laptop See at Lenovo
Best Open Source Linux Laptop Shop Now
Best Linux Laptop for Gamers Shop Now
What to Look For in a Linux Laptop in 2023
Purchasing a laptop and subsequently installing Linux on it is an option open to you. Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge that there is no assurance regarding the compatibility of the laptop's hardware with Linux. In the event that the appropriate hardware drivers for your chosen Linux operating system are unavailable, certain features of the laptop may not function optimally, or the laptop itself could experience reduced battery life due to inadequate optimization.
Don't settle for this experience. Several manufacturers offer laptops with pre-installed Linux, ensuring proper functionality and compatibility with future software updates. While running Linux applications on Windows 10 and Windows 11 through the Windows Subsystem for Linux is convenient for many, it does not provide the authentic experience.
Consider exploring Chromebooks, as they offer the option of installing Linux or utilizing specific Linux applications on Chrome OS. However, it is worth noting that Chromebooks have become pricier without significant enhancements in their specifications.
Whether you are a developer seeking a Linux laptop for programming, a strong advocate of open-source software and privacy, or simply a Linux enthusiast who favors this operating system over Windows and macOS, we have some options available for you. Furthermore, there are even high-performance gaming laptops that are now equipped with Linux, as demonstrated by Valve's Steam Deck.
Ready to step into the world of Linux? These are the laptops to do it with.
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How-To Geek's product recommendations derive from the collective expertise of our team, comprised of industry experts who have assisted individuals in resolving their device issues on over one billion occasions. Our recommendations are solely based on meticulous research and our own proficiency. We firmly adhere to a policy of not accepting any form of payment in exchange for endorsing or reviewing products. Read More »
Best Linux Laptop Overall: Dell XPS 13 Plus
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Great specs and plenty of configuration options | Only two ports |
Options include a 4K display | |
Thunderbolt 4 ports are useful | |
Great look and feel |
Dell's XPS line of laptops has gained popularity among Linux users over the years due to its combination of a sleek and lightweight design, along with powerful hardware. With the introduction of the Dell XPS 13 Plus, the power has been further enhanced, making it an ideal choice for a versatile Linux laptop.
The XPS 13 Plus comes equipped with a 13th-generation Intel Core i7-1360P processor, featuring four Performance cores and eight Efficient cores, resulting in a total of 12 cores. Even the base model is equipped with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, while the laptop can be customized with up to 32GB of RAM and a massive 2TB of storage.
The screen is configurable and offers various options. The minimum resolution available is full HD at 1920x1200 with a brightness of 500 nits. Alternatively, you have the choice of a 3.5K screen with a brightness of 400 nits, or a 4K screen with a brightness of 500 nits and a resolution of 3840 x 2400.
If you opt for the Linux preinstalled version, it will come with Ubuntu 22.04 LTS. However, if you prefer, you can choose to dual-boot and select either Windows 11 Home or Pro, and then install your preferred Linux distribution. Dell's XPS line has a history of being compatible with Linux, making it easy to install most distributions.
The XPS 13 Plus offers limited port options, featuring only two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports that support DisplayPort and Power Delivery. Additionally, it comes with USB-C to 3.5mm headphone and USB-C to USB-A adapters included in the package.
Furthermore, the XPS 13 Plus provides the opportunity to personalize its appearance, as it is available in either Platinum or Graphite finish options.
See at Dell
Best Budget Linux Laptop: Star Labs StarLite 11
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ A lot of laptop for the money | ✗ Very modest specifications |
✓ Open warranty | ✗ May be too small for many users |
✓ Open Source BIOS option | |
✓ Good battery life | |
✓ Wide selection of Linux distros to choose from |
In the world of laptops, there are those that simply support Linux and then there are those that owe their very existence to Linux. Enter the StarLite 11-inch laptop by Star Labs, which stands apart from everything else available.
Despite modest specifications, featuring a N5030 Pentium Silver processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 240GB SSD in the base model, the StarLite offers the flexibility of upgrading to a larger 960GB SSD if required. Although options for a superior CPU or additional RAM are not available, the expandable SSD size remains a noteworthy feature.
When ordering a StarLite, you have the option of pre-loading it with a variety of Linux distributions, beyond just the popular Ubuntu. Currently, there are 16 different flavors of Linux available for the StarLite 11 model, and you even have the choice of not having an operating system installed at all.
The decision between a proprietary BIOS from American Megatrends or an Open Source Coreboot BIOS adds another layer of intrigue. Additionally, StarLab's commitment to openness extends to their "open" warranty. With a 1-year limited warranty, StarLite allows you to freely disassemble your computer, replace parts, install upgrades, use any operating system, and even modify your firmware without voiding the warranty.
While the specifications may be modest, many Linux distributions are not resource-intensive and can perform well on this hardware. If you are in search of a cost-effective laptop that supports open-source software and is capable of handling daily computing tasks, the StarLite from Star Labs is an incredibly enticing choice.
Best Budget Linux LaptopThe Star Labs StarLite is a true Linux laptop with good enough specs for daily use, a compact build and intriguing open source BIOS and open warranty options.
Star Labs
Best Premium Linux Laptop: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 with Linux
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Solid hardware with plenty of configuration options | ThinkPad look and the TrackPoint aren't for everyone |
Great screen options include a touchscreen | |
Available with Fedora or Ubuntu pre-installed | |
TrackPoint is useful for those who like it |
Despite the change in ownership from IBM to Lenovo, the renowned ThinkPad name continues to be closely associated with top-notch laptops. By leveraging Lenovo's stronger dedication to delivering laptops that come pre-installed with Linux, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 with Linux emerges as the ideal choice for a premium Linux laptop.
The laptop is equipped with a 13th-generation Intel Core i5-1335U Processor that features two Performance cores and eight Efficient cores, resulting in a total of 10 cores. If you prefer a more robust CPU, you have the option to upgrade to the i7-1370P vPro CPU, which also includes a RAM enhancement.
In its standard configuration, the laptop provides 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and a 256GB M.2 SSD for storage. However, depending on your choice of CPU, you can customize the laptop to have up to 64GB RAM and a maximum of 2TB storage capacity.
The screen size will remain at 14 inches for the display, but there are various options available. The default option is a 1920 x 1200 IPS panel, but you can choose to upgrade to a touchscreen or a non-touch 2.8K OLED model.
As indicated by the "with Linux" in the name, Lenovo includes Linux as the operating system for this ThinkPad. However, you have the freedom to select which distribution it comes with. Fedora is the default pre-installed distribution, but Ubuntu is also an option for you to choose.
See at Lenovo
Best Open Source Linux Laptop: Purism Librem 14
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Open source BIOS | ✗ More expensive than the alternatives |
✓ Minimal closed-source firmware | ✗ 10th gen Intel Core CPU instead of 11th gen |
✓ Hardware kill switches and other privacy features |
For a computer that offers both power and the freedom to customize your hardware, look no further than the Purism Librem 14. Purism takes pride in meticulously designing these systems to prioritize your privacy, security, and freedom.
Equipped with an open-source coreboot BIOS firmware and no Intel Management Engine (ME) code operating at a low level, these systems aim to maximize their open-source nature. While Purism makes every effort to avoid closed-source firmware, there may still be some instances where binary blobs are used. To further enhance security, the Librem 14 comes pre-installed with PureOS, a Debian-based Linux distribution that is specifically tailored for protection, developed by Purism.
Purism goes beyond open source to empower you as a user. With built-in physical kill switches, the laptop allows you to disconnect the camera, mic, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth effortlessly. Protecting against hackers accessing your webcam and mic, these switches provide an added layer of security.
Furthermore, the Librem 14 is equipped with a BIOS write protection switch on its motherboard, preventing the installation of malicious software without physically altering the switch's position. Additional features such as PureBoot and the Librem Key ensure that only trusted software can boot on your computer, while safeguarding your laptop's encrypted files with a physical security key.
In addition to that, you will receive a reliable 14-inch laptop equipped with an Intel Core i7 CPU. However, it is important to note that the CPU being used is a 10th generation Intel Core, chosen to ensure compatibility with the open-source BIOS, rather than the latest 11th generation Intel Core. This should not significantly impact performance, though it can be a bit disappointing considering the price. Fortunately, you have the option to customize aspects such as memory, storage, and additional features while making your purchase. It is worth mentioning that Purism guarantees a battery life of 9 hours and 48 minutes during light usage.
Nevertheless, it is important to be aware that the Librem 14 is a higher-priced laptop compared to others on this list. This is because it is a premium product, and Purism has clearly put in extra effort to provide these exceptional and rare features.
If you're looking for more laptops with open-source firmware, System76's line also has open firmware.
Best Open Source Linux LaptopPurism's Librem 14 takes the open-source nature of Linux to the next level, with the company developing this laptop to respect freedom and privacy.
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Best Linux Laptop for Gaming: System76 Oryx Pro
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Hybrid NVIDIA+Intel graphics | ✗ Only 1080p screen resolution |
✓ 15-inch or 17-inch options | ✗ Low TDP GPUs with a largely pointless 3080 Ti option |
✓ Customizable hardware | |
✓ Open source BIOS |
The System76 Oryx Pro is the ideal choice for gamers and individuals in search of robust GPU hardware. With its hybrid graphics functionality, featuring switchable NVIDIA and Intel graphics, this laptop optimizes battery life by intelligently switching to Intel-integrated graphics when demanding GPU performance is not required.
The Oryx Pro is available in two sizes: 15 inches and 17 inches. You have the choice of NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti or 3080 Ti graphics, with customizable options for RAM (up to 64 GB) and storage (up to 4TB). The screen features a 1080p resolution and a quick 144Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for gaming. However, there are no higher-resolution screen options available. Both GPU options, the 80W Max-Q variants, offer virtually identical performance under the same power limits, so choosing the more expensive 3080 Ti GPU may not be necessary.
System76 exclusively specializes in Linux laptops and provides open-source firmware for all of their laptops. In addition to laptops, they also offer prebuilt Linux desktops and have a wide range of PCs to choose from.
These laptops are equipped with their own Ubuntu-based operating system called Pop! OS. However, users have the freedom to install other Linux distributions if they prefer. Pop!_OS boasts its unique desktop environment, offering features like auto-tiling windows and keyboard navigation shortcuts, while seamlessly integrating with the hardware.
Additionally, users have the flexibility to select the GPU they want their laptop to utilize or set the operating system to automatically switch to a specific GPU when launching a particular application. It is worth mentioning that Pop!_OS is encrypted by default, ensuring enhanced security.
On Pop!_OS, you have the option to install Steam or any other Linux gaming software. System76 provides a convenient guide specifically tailored for gaming on Pop!_OS. This helpful guide will assist you in the setup process of Steam, configuration of the open-source Lutris software to run emulators and Windows games, and utilization of the GameHub software to merge your game libraries from various storefronts into a single, centralized location.
Best Linux Laptop for GamersAre you a gamer who doesn't want to be tied to Windows? The Oryx Pro gives you the hardware specs you need while giving you the freedom of Linux.
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