this post was submitted on 03 Jul 2023
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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!

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[–] circuitfarmer@lemmy.sdf.org 1 points 2 years ago

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.

[–] Thermal_shocked@lemmy.world 1 points 2 years ago* (last edited 2 years ago)

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

[–] guacho@lemmy.world 0 points 2 years ago

Just to reinforce what all the thread is saying: used Thinkpad in ebay. I would search for a x270/x280/t470/t480. This depends in screen size.

Why these models? They are the last ones that allow you ti upgrade your RAM, so when you have a bit more money you can upgrade. Also, these are old but not ancient, so they can still be relevant for some time.

On the other hand, if you have more budget, the best Linux laptops are the frame.work, but they're expensive, although they're reparable and upgradable, so I guess that depends on how you see it.

Finally, Kali is not a daily use distro. If you have time to waste (or invest) then you can go hardcore and straight to Arch Linux. If you want to have an easier journey you can start with PopOs!

Good luck on your journey!!

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