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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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Recommendations for a small used laptop (lemmy.sdf.org)

submitted 3 days ago by JovialSodium@lemmy.sdf.org to c/linux@lemmy.ml

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Working on the assumption that Win10 being EOL is going to cause an influx of old hardware becoming available, I was thinking it might be a good time to start looking for a good deal on a laptop for travel. It doesn't HAVE to be an old unsupported laptop, but saving something from e-waste is a bonus. Here's the kind of thing I'm looking for.

Something small-ish, around a 13" screen.
Can install Linux. Generally a given, I know. But I think not always an option with Chromebooks? I'm OK with a Chromebook as long as I can replace ChromeOS with Linux.
X86_64 preferred. For games, though obviously not a great platform for that. Not opposed to ARM, but the PineBook Pro is compelling as a small low-cost ARM laptop, it'd have to be a better deal than that.
Somewhat serviceable. I'd like to have the option to replace the batteries, storage, and memory. Being able to replace the wireless card would be nice.
Durable would be a bonus. It probably won't see a lot of use, but it'll get tossed around in a backpack or in luggage.
Specs aren't too important. I like my distros lightweight, and a web browser will be the most demanding thing it'll run.

All of that might be too much of a unicorn, but if I can find a good deal that mostly fits, I'll be happy.

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[–] Veraxis@lemmy.world 1 points 2 days ago

Depending on your budget, I often find there are good refurbished deals on semi-recent models on ebay. That's how I got my current laptop. Most business models will have upgradeable RAM/storage/wireless cards. Externally removable batteries have not been a thing on laptops in a long time, but replacement batteries for common business models should be available as long as you are okay with taking off the back lid, which it sounds like you are.

A quick look on ebay (Your local market may vary) suggests there are some decent deals on 11th-13th gen 13" HP/Dell/Lenovo business laptops in the $300-400 range. Maybe something like this HP 630 G10?

If your budget is less, the usual 8th-10th gen Intel business laptops are always a good option and usually go for $100-200, maybe even under $100 once you get into some of the lower spec or scratch-and-dent models (Also, yes, I know AMD is a thing, but businesses almost always use Intel in my experience). My travel laptop is an old 8th gen Acer Swift with a dent in the back lid, but it otherwise works fine and has handled many trips in my backpack. Maybe something like this Dell 5310 with a scuffed lid? I'm sure you can look around and find something which works for you.