Hello all,
I’m in the market for buying a new laptop to install Linux on. I’m trying to stay with something relatively cheap (Around $300 and below). I’m getting ready to start a degree program in cyber security and did some research, and it seems Kali Linux would be the best distro for me to install.
I would install it on my current computer, but I only have a 2015 MacBook Pro, and I’ve read that a few people run into some issues installing on a Mac compared to a regular PC.
With the above in mind, do I need to increase my budget or does Linux run fine on low-end laptops?
Thanks!
Currently I think the most eco-friendly option is a Framework.
I’d check local places like offerup. can get business laptops for cheap when places refresh. there are a few people around me selling 3-4 year old dells with i5/i7, nvme, etc. take a Linux USB and install it on site before you buy to test. they’re more than enough specwise for daily use or testing. often sub $300
I’ve always stuck to Thinkpads for Linux – especially the T series is incredibly solid. That said, you really shouldn’t have an issue with a 2015 MacBook.
Ive had an excellent time with the thinkpad e14 w/ ryzen 5500u. Worked flawlessly with both void and gentoo. Same drivers and config as any ryzen based desktop CPU.
Best part is the price - you can snag one used for 300~ USD and it can do everything my desktop can save for cutting edge AAA gaming or server hosting
Ive had an excellent time with the thinkpad e14 w/ ryzen 5500u. Worked flawlessly with both void and gentoo. Same drivers and config as any ryzen based desktop CPU.
Best part is the price - you can snag one used for 300~ USD and it can do everything my desktop can save for cutting edge AAA gaming or server hosting