The Linux operating system will run on just about any computer. I mean that literally. Remember the Intel Pentium 4 processor? It came out in 2000, and it’s still supported by Debian Linux. That’s probably not a machine you want to work on today, though, so while Linux can run almost anywhere, Linux runs better on some laptops than others.

But once upon a time, getting Linux working meant jumping through all sorts of hoops and dealing with frustrating experiences trying to get everything to work on hardware designed for Windows or macOS. Thankfully, those days are mostly behind us. I’ve installed Linux on every laptop I’ve tested since 2020. Almost all of them worked great, but some were easier to get running than others.

Beyond supporting older hardware, Linux offers other user benefits, like greater control over operating systems that run on the Linux kernel, better security and malware protection, no unwanted software (bloatware), and faster performance. It’s not just for developers; it’s for casual users too.

For most people, a laptop preinstalled with Linux is your best bet. Plenty of hardware makers now ship laptops running Linux right out of the box. This guide recommends the best of these.

If you’re in the market for a laptop, be sure to check out our other buying guides, like the Best Laptops, Best Cheap Laptops, Best MacBooks, and How to Choose the Right Laptop.

Updated September 2026: I’ve revamped this guide to include the new System76 Pangolin Pro, along with updates on the Tuxedo and Framework options.

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