From a spec perspective, once you find something you want, google for linux support and peoples experiences. You could even find out what dell models had ubuntu pre-installed, and find
You may want to approach this the other way. I you go to newegg.ca for example, i see the cheapest chrome book at about 400$, instead, do search on 8GB portable (4GB is cutting it close), and you will see many refurbs come up 350-400$ (order by price increasing), and new coming in at 550'ish. the windows equiv. being sold refurb. for cheap (i would guess). With bloatware on cheap windows licenses, the cost of windows factored in is about 0$ (at least it would be on a refurb.) I just can't help but think if you drive the search from something certified to linux (or chrome) from supplier (pre-built), you will severely narrow your HW options. Having said all that, I have at least twice built up a linux portable from a wiped windows one, and had video go black after grub screen, just to have to research to add a boot time option for a intel video issue, and this type of thing, since you are not a dev., would drive you mad. If you can find people reporting trouble free install from Linux Mint, or Ubuntu, it should be a safe bet. You can also try to run a live DVD/CD on the machine before you buy, that would really cement the process. You could also consider a live DVD/CD with a purchase that has full return policy. Good luck! nice to see you attempting the Linux route. Also, intel processors isn't a must, can run linux fine on amd (and a whole bunch more for that matter). And I would go for 8GB ram at min. Trouble spots are usually touch pads with multi-finger support, touch screens, and wifi module, at least a few years ago, could still be a pain. -tl On Tue, Nov 22, 2016 at 3:53 PM, Irwin Barrer via talk <talk@gtalug.org> wrote:
Dear Talk List Members
I am brand new to Linux, open source, etc. I am a user, not a developer.
I am interested in buying a laptop and installing Ubuntu on it—I like the idea of a free alternative to Windows or MacOS, and price is a big factor.
A while back I saw some relatively inexpensive laptops on Dell with Ubuntu preinstalled. Unfortunately these are no longer available and only a high-end developer system is available with Ubuntu preinstalled.
So I have started looking into laptops with Chrome OS (Chromebooks) and installing Ubuntu. I’ve done some research, but still uncertain. Intel processors seem to be a must and 4GB RAM—which is the most I can find on a Chromebook.
Does anyone have any experience with Ubuntu? Any help/advice would be appreciated.
Best IB
Irwin Barrer irwin@irwinb.com
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