I want to get my partner a replacement for an aging chromebook. I was thinking it would be easiest to just grab another super budget chromebook and call it a day. But the more I read about google and chrome, the less I want to do with them.
So my goal is to snag a cheap ($300ish?) laptop that I can slap Linux on (probably mint, but I’m open to suggestions).
The main caveat is the size- needs to be small. Current chromebook is 11.5” I think. I’d like to keep it under 13”. The main use (95% will be web browsing/streaming/email/bullshit) but I’d like it to have enough juice to play Minecraft on my local server.
I’ve looked around a bit, but my god there is a lot of options. I’d love it if there was just a recommendation that was proven to work. I’m busy enough tinkering with all the other tech, and I’d like to just set this one up and forget it.
Chromebooks are honestly the best option for budget linux laptops, you can easily install linux onto many chromebooks.
Ten years ago, when those ubiquitous Acer chromebooks were cheap as dirt, I would have agreed with you . I had a couple.
But my last three laptops have been Mint running on refurbished ThinkPads from ebay. I’ve not had any problems.
Agreed. Grab a T490S off eBay with an i5, 16GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD for $225 and you’re all set.