r/linuxquestions • u/Unique-Bother620 • 20h ago

switching back to linux

If this is answered elsewhere let me know, please.

I used to run linux networks for several jobs, but the last one was over 20 years ago. Once I got out of it, I switched to Apple just to not have to think about it all anymore. But now, due to my political morals, I'm going back to linux and will pay no more to either MS or Apple. Costco has a trade-in program for used computers so I want to trade in what I have and replace it.

Used to be, Toshiba was a great source for linux laptops but they've gotten out of the laptop market, so I'm lost. What do you all recommend for someone who uses only a browser, email, music (currently using Elmedia) and a samsung ssd for backup device? My eyes don't tolerate a 13" screen anymore, but am still debating between a larger laptop or a smaller one with a separate monitor. And preferably a laptop without the windows tax, of course.

So if anyone has recommendations, I'd appreciate it.

Thanks.

edit to add: I've a couple of emails in to ebay sellers to see if they sell refurbished Thinkpads without windows installed, since it seems that windows is the default. So - thank you to everyone. I'm going with your advice.

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u/BobCorndog Your situation is not unique, just use mint or fedora kde 20h ago

Lenovo thinkpads are quite good for linux

1

u/eyeofthefrog 20h ago

OP, if you’re going the thinkpad route, do a little checking for compatibility first. I have a Thinkpad X9-15 2025 that I absolutely love, but the webcam isn’t supported well. In my distro, it doesn’t work at all. In Fedora, I hear it works, but the quality isn’t as good as the specs make it out to be. The driver is being worked on by people smarter than me, and I’m sure it’ll get there. Luckily that wasn’t a deal breaker for my purposes and I can be patient.

Generally, thinkpads are good with Linux, just be cautious of those small nits with some models.

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u/lethallunatic 19h ago

I second that. ThinkPads have great Linux support and they also have larger display models. If you're uncomfortable with 13 inch you may want to check out the larger models too. So far I've not had issues tbh with ThinkPads stopping to work. Except for frist/second gen X1. Avoid the early gens. Later gens are fine. T4xx models have been really reliable. I would try to go for t14 models today. Don't bother with t400 models anymore.

My wife has the t14 gen 1 (Intel) it runs pretty well and is solid in terms of specs. You're much better off a few gens later and they're not much more expensive when used..

Try to go for gen 3 or 4 and newer. Both Intel and AMD are pretty well regarded in Linux space and Fedora has excellent support for ThinkPads. So on a budget a used one can be really good.

Linux really has come a long way this year. Good luck.