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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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Any suggestions for cheap but decent laptops for coding? (lemmy.blahaj.zone)

submitted 5 months ago by EveryMuffinIsNowEncrypted@lemmy.blahaj.zone to c/linux@lemmy.ml

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I'm currently learning how to code (currently Python, then maybe JavaScript), but I'm not always around my desktop, and learning on my phone is not always an option (also, it can be quite cumbersome at times). Therefore, I'm looking into purchasing a laptop just for learning how to code and stuff.

I don't want to get a Chromebook because I want to be able to wipe the drive and install Linux on it (probably Linux Mint). Maybe it's changed since 2013, but the last time I had a Chromebook, it was a pain in the ass to install even bog-standard Ubuntu on it.

Problem is, I'm also heavily limited by space & budget: no more than 11 in (280 mm) total laptop width and 330 USD base price.

Does anyone have any suggestions?

Please forgive me if this is not the right space for this kind of question. Lemme know if it is and I'll delete it. :)

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[–] slowbyrne@beehaw.org 5 points 5 months ago (3 children)

Now that apple has their own silicon, all the older intel based MacBooks are pretty cheap. I just replaced my wife's 2013 MacBook Airs battery, upgraded the drive, and installed Linux. It's been a solid little laptop. Not the fastest but there's probably a few pro models within your price range. Just make sure to get at least a 16gb model since the ram is soldered. Might have issues with the webcam, but the wifi drivers are pretty good.

[–] EveryMuffinIsNowEncrypted@lemmy.blahaj.zone 1 points 5 months ago* (last edited 5 months ago) (2 children)

I thought Macs are notoriously difficult to install Linux on, like from a firmware level.

Is this incorrect?

[–] ranok@sopuli.xyz 2 points 5 months ago (1 children)

The Intel ones are quite a bit easier, but still not as easy as a PC. You need to disable some FW security settings to allow for a non Apple kernel to boot.

[–] EveryMuffinIsNowEncrypted@lemmy.blahaj.zone 1 points 5 months ago

Ah. In that case, I think I'm gonna steer clear of Macs. I'm not at all familiar with post-2013 Macs in the first place, and I definitely don't know enough to fiddle around with its firmware security settings (or any firmware security settings, for that matter).