Question:
Budget Linux notebook
Hello, I'm looking for a budget notebook with decent batery life, that can boot into Linux (Debian or Ubuntu). I'd like to use it for (lo-end) VJ'ing, so dual monitor is important. I'll prbably get en external soundcard, so sound isn't realy an issue, do a decent soundcard would be a plus.
General Questions
1) What size notebook would you prefer?
c. Mainstream; 15" - 16" screen
2) What tasks will you be performing with the notebook?
Surfing, webdevelopment (HTML/PHP), MP3 DJ'ing, music production, VJ'ing, some photo editing
3) Will you be taking the notebook with you to different places or leaving it on your desk?
Take it with me, but probably on my desk most of the time
4) Will you be playing games on it; if so, which games?
Maybe Armagetron
5) Are there any brands that you prefer or any you really don't like?
Not realy.
6) How many hours of battery life do you need?
3h surfing with WiFi
7) What is your budget?
€1000/$1200 maximum, but preferably €800/$950
8) Do you mind buying online without seeing the notebook in person?
Don't mind online, if I can be sure it'll work under Ubuntu or Debian
9) What country are you buying this in?
Belgium, Europe
Screen Specifics
10) From the choices below, what screen resolutions would you prefer?
b. SXGA will do I guess
11) Do you want a glossy/reflective screen or a matte/non-glossy screen?
Don't realy know the difference
Build Quality and Design
12) Are the notebook’s looks and stylishness important to you?
No, performance and price mater much more
13) How long do you want this laptop to last?
At least a couple of years
Notebook Components
14) How much hard drive space do you want; 40GB to 120GB?
Would probably do a dual boot, so at least 60 and preferably 80
15) Do you need a DVD, DVD-CD/RW or DVD-R drive?
I'd like a DVD+/-R
Answer:
Re: Budget Linux notebook
ThinkPads have always had good linux support - I would look into the R50E. It has a 15" display, and some models come with a Pentium M, which will give you decent battery life.
HP nx6125 is definitely worth considering. 15", Turion 64. Has an SXGA+ display option, as you specified.
Answer:
Re: Budget Linux notebook
http://www.linuxcertified.com/linux_laptops.html
perhaps check them out, or at least what hardware they are using, so you can be sure it will work with Linux.
Answer:
Thanks for the tips!
Answer:
Re: Budget Linux notebook
This site has a lot of compatibility lists for a large number of laptops from a large number of the most popular manufacturers. Just glancing, it looks like Wireless is the #1 thing put in the laptops that often doesn't work so well in Linux..
http://www.linux-laptop.net/