Today, the market is dominated by three operating systems. Although, it might be correct to say that only one operating system dominates. Of course, we are talking about Microsoft Windows, which according to the latest data is the operating system on 87.76% of all computers in the world. This is quite understandable because Windows is very popular, user-friendly, suitable for both professional work and gaming, for education, in short, an operating system for everyone and for any purpose. Check Work Around TC to find more details about laptop accessories.
This is followed by MacOS with a modest 9.61% market share. However, at the moment, neither Windows nor MacOS is the subject of our article. Today, we will talk about Linux, more precisely about one of its most popular distributions named Ubuntu. Interestingly, Linux in general, with all its distributions, has a 2.06% market share, and although this is much less than the previous two OSes, Linux is very much present in the world of technology. For example, this OS has been standard for decades when it comes to servers. Also, the most popular smartphone OS, Android, is based on Linux. Therefore, it is one of the operating systems that you could consider for your new computer.
Speaking of computers, today we decided to present you the best laptops for Ubuntu. So, if you are planning to buy a new portable machine, you will have our help to choose among those that are especially suitable for Ubuntu. So, if you’re ready, let’s get started. Have a look on Hotrate to see more linux laptop reviews.
5. HP Specter x360
If you like convertible laptops, this one is the right thing for you. The Specter x360 by HP is a very nicely designed laptop, with very fine curves which adds to the high-end pedigree. The case is made of high quality and durable, yet light metal. You can check out Fixthephoto to see more HP laptops that are worth their money and are good for Ubuntu too.
In terms of technology, the Specter x360 is powered by an Intel Core i7-6500U CPU. Combined with Intel HD Graphics 520, this laptop has truly superior performance. When it comes to memory, here we have 256GB of M.2 SSD storage as well as 8GB of DDR3L SDRAM. Touchscreen support is also fantastic on 13.3 inches and Full HD display. It is important to note that you can rotate the display and use it as a tablet. In terms of price, the Specter x360 is currently available on Amazon for just over $1,000.
4. ASUS ZenBook Pro UX501VW
When it comes to Asus, you certainly won’t go wrong. This brand is a big name in the world of gaming, so their laptops are capable of performing high-end tasks. This is confirmed by the components and astonishing performance of this machine which is powered by Intel Skylake Core i7-6700HQ CPU combined with Nvidia GTX960M GPU. It also has 16GB of DDR4 RAM as well as a 512GB SSD.
Another segment that surprised us very positively is the 15.6-inch IPS 4K UHD touchscreen display. All of these components make this machine very powerful with outstanding performance capable of gaming, video editing, coding, and whatever. Lastly, the price for the ASUS ZenBook Pro UX501VW is around $2,000.
3. Microsoft Surface Book 2
Yes, we know, it seems strange that the list of the best Ubuntu laptops includes a Microsoft product. However, their Surface Book 2 is more than great when it comes to machines suitable for Ubuntu. We have to add that the Surface Book 2 is a direct competitor to Apple’s MacBook so we know in advance it is a superb machine. The specifications confirm our claims as the Surface Book 2 has a built-in Intel Quad Core i7 CPU as well as a Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 discrete GPU. In addition, there is 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage space (SSD).
The most interesting thing is that the 15-inch touchscreen is completely detachable, so it is possible to use Microsoft Surface Book 2 as a tablet. Another very important feature is a durable battery with more than 12 hours of active operation. As for the installation and booting of Ubuntu, you will certainly not have any problems because the whole process is very smooth and easy. The price on Amazon is currently $2,400.
2. Samsung Chromebook Pro
Although Samsung is the leading brand in the world of smartphones, this South Korean technology giant is also very important in the field of computers. A great example of their superior design is the Samsung Chromebook Pro. This laptop also has a 360-degree rotating screen as well as touchscreen support, just like model No.5 on our list. However, the display is slightly smaller than with the other mentioned models, namely 12.3 inches.
When it comes to installing Ubuntu, this laptop features Crouton and ChrUbuntu options which are both just designed to install this Linux distribution. Chrome OS is the default operating system but it is possible to install Ubuntu without any problems.
It is powered by an Intel Core M3 6Y30 CPU combined with an Intel HD Graphics 515. There is also 32GB of eMMC flash storage, meaning there is no SSD or HDD. Also, we have 4 GB of RAM here.
Yes, when you look at the components built in, it’s not hard to conclude that it’s not the ultimate gaming or video editing machine, but this laptop brings you outstanding home use capabilities. We must mention also beautiful and very stylish design. After all, the Samsung Chromebook Pro can be classified as a budget class of Ubuntu-compatible laptops. Its current price on Amazon is around $750.
1. Acer Aspire E15
Finally, the champion of “the best laptops for Ubuntu” list is the Acer Aspire E15. This one has 7th Generation of Intel Core i3-7100U inside as well as integrated Intel HD Graphics 620. When it comes to memory, the Aspire E15 has 4GB of DDR4 RAM (slightly low) as well as 1TB of HDD. However, although the memory specifications are slightly lower, we can’t deny the fact that the Aspire E15 is a great machine capable of installing Ubuntu quite easily as well as for smooth operation in Linux applications.
Features that we would definitely single out as very positive are the durable battery (up to 12 hours), backlit keyboard, TrueHarmony speakers and ColorBlast display (15.6 inches) technology developed by Acer. These facts shift the focus to multimedia, which is exactly what this laptop is for. So, office and multimedia, and maybe even some undemanding games. The best thing is the price of around $800 which makes this laptop very affordable if you want to experience the benefits of this Linux distribution.