Once a favorite among coding and programming experts and niche enthusiasts, Linux has been slowly increasing in popularity over the years. Best laptops for running linux in 2025 because it's open source, you may check out many various Linux distributions to see which one best suits your skill level and requirements. For novice programmers, Linux may even be used to resurrect an outdated laptop or desktop to give it new life as a learning tool. Mac users still have some catching up to do in terms of distro support, but there are several Windows-based laptops with similar performance and battery life that can run Linux as well.
Currently, what is the greatest Linux laptop?
Buying any laptop may be intimidating, much less one with an operating system you might not know. ZDNET specialists thus tested user-friendliness, performance, and battery life on Linux-capable laptops from Lenovo, Dell, and others. The Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 AMD is our top choice for the finest Linux laptop overall because of its lower cost and customization possibilities. You may continue reading below to learn more about the remainder of our selections for the best Linux laptops if you want something more beginner-friendly or for a Linux-capable Mac substitute.
1. Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 AMD
For consumers who like dual-boot systems, the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s is a great workhorse of a laptop with complete Linux compatibility as well as Windows. AMD's newest Ryzen AI 7 CPU with 32GB of RAM will give you enough power to handle video streaming, office work, and online surfing.
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2. XPS 13 from Dell
Casual laptop users, students, and business workers have all liked the Dell XPS 13 for good reason. The laptop may be set up to be nearly custom-made for your Linux skill level and use requirements. For improved speed, you may choose either a Snapdragon X Plus or Elite CPU; for enough storage and memory, you may choose up to 32GB of RAM and up to a 1TB SSD.
3. Swift Edge by Acer
Supporting three distinct versions of Linux—RHEL x86 64-bit, Ubuntu x86 64-bit, and SLED/SLES 15—the Acer Swift Edge 16 is a superb AMD-based laptop. Letting you multitask with less problems, the AMD Ryzen 7 7840U CPU employs the brand's new AI engine for improved power economy and performance.
4. Pro Art P16 from Asus
Mac users wishing to test the waters in the Linux pool have few supported distribution choices. The Asus ProArt P16 offers similar performance to MacBooks, but if you're ready to convert to a Windows laptop that also runs Linux, The 16-inch screen features an AMOLED panel for brighter, more realistic colours, 4K resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. Digital artists will be pleased to see it also allows touch inputs.
5. Microsoft Surface Notebook
If your laptop is serving as your primary device, high battery life is crucial whether you are experienced Linux user or just starting out. With a full charge, the Microsoft Surface Laptop can last up to 22 hours, so you can work all day and then play about with Linux late into the night before you have to consider plugging in.
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6. Infinity Book Pro Fourteen
Dedicated to the open source community, Tuxedo's Infinity Book Pro 14 is a slim, portable computer. Tuxedo, founded in Germany (thus the euro pricing), has a long history of outstanding Linux support, much like System76. Tuxedo's lightweight, daily laptop is the Infinity Book Pro, which has an Intel i7 processor, up to 4 TB of SSD storage, and capability for up to 64 GB of RAM. You may also include dedicated graphics using an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 card.
To me, the highlight of the Infinity Book is the beautiful matte (anti-glare) 2,880 x 1,800-pixel-resolution display. Working anyplace at 400 nits is more than plenty. Based on my tests, the dual-fan cooling system of the Infinity Book Pro allowed it to run well for editing high-res video and provide enough power for most activities.
The battery life is good, lasting all day, and the custom tools for fine-tuning the power settings are the best I've used. Tuxedo's custom OS, which is based on Ubuntu, provides an excellent Linux experience; the site provides comprehensive resources and guides for beginners.
Conclusion on Best Laptops For Running Linux In 2025
Ultimately, your unique requirements—whether you are a developer, a casual user, or a power user looking for maximum performance—will find which laptop in 2025 best runs Linux. The good news is that Linux compatibility has never been better, with makers more and more providing systems that support Linux out of the box.
Dell's XPS line, Lenovo's ThinkPad series, and System76's Linux-optimized computers' flagship models remain outstanding selections. Best laptops for running linux in 2025 mid-range laptops with AMD or Intel chipsets offer decent performance and compatibility for budget-conscious consumers in the meanwhile.
Whether you prioritize mobility, battery life, or sheer power, there is a Linux-friendly laptop for you this year. Before choosing your last choice, just be sure to verify device compatibility, particularly with Wi-Fi cards and graphics drivers. A solid, safe, fully customized Linux experience on the laptop that fits you best will be yours with the correct setup.
FAQ's: Best Laptops For Running Linux In 2025
What is the best laptop for Kali 2025?
The Acer Swift 3 has been tailored for Kali Linux users given its low cost and small size. Its amazing Radeon Graphics and AMD Ryzen 7 4700U Octa-Core CPU could help Kali Linux users complete their tasks on time.
Which processor is best for Linux?
A 10th generation Intel i5 or newer CPU, 8 GB of RAM (the more the merrier), and an SSD big enough to hold your data would suffice if all you need to do is edit some images, watch 4K video, and perform usual office tasks. Stick with a Ryzen 5 4000 series or greater if you desire an AMD machine.
Can Linux run on any laptop?
Installing Linux was just as difficult in those early days, often calling for manual disk partitioning. Installing Linux on a laptop developed within, say, the last ten years should be no issue for you.