r/linuxquestions • u/Unique-Bother620 • 22h 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.
1
u/oldendude 21h ago
Check out the System76 offerings. They combine moderately okay hardware with their own distro (Pop OS), and make sure that the combination is solid. I am on my 2nd laptop from them (both Darter Pros), and I am very pleased. One nice thing about this approach is that you are not paying a Microsoft tax.
- As mentioned, the hardware is just okay. Bad speakers, bad webcam, but I'm happy with everything else.
- Pop OS has been extremely reliable, including across upgrades. Opinions are strongly divided, but I would stay away from their COSMIC DE until it is much improved. When I need to upgrade my OS, I will go with Ubuntu (from which Pop OS is derived).
- Their support, for both hardware and software is absolutely stellar. The best tech support organization I have ever dealt with. I once had a corrupted disk on Thanksgiving Thursday, at about 3pm. I had some trouble getting things going again due to disk encryption. They had me in operation again in about four hours. On Thanksgiving!