this post was submitted on 28 Nov 2023
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13" or smaller Linux laptop - best replacement for aging chromebook? (lemm.ee)
submitted 11 months ago by Nimrod@lemm.ee to c/linux@lemmy.ml
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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.

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[–] possiblylinux127@lemmy.zip 7 points 11 months ago* (last edited 11 months ago) (3 children)

Here's a short list devices things I can think of:

  • a old Linux compatible Chromebook. You would need to wipe the firmware and install seabios and Linux
  • A Pinebook Pro. This device is very underpowered and would be slow. It is also arm so you can't install just any Distro.
  • a old surface device with Linux support
  • a old labtop that used to run Windows

There used to be a $400 device from starlabs but I no longer see it. There cheapest device is $700.

Honestly your best bet is a Chromebook or a used labtop

[–] Nimrod@lemm.ee 1 points 11 months ago (1 children)

Are there certain requirements, or pitfalls to avoid when digging through old Chromebooks?

I think that’s the direction I’m leaning.

[–] possiblylinux127@lemmy.zip 2 points 11 months ago

Honestly just make sure you do your research. If you are unsure you could go buy a used Chromebook on eBay for about $50 bucks. Once you get that device working you can always upgrade.

Keep in mind each Chromebook model is different and not all are compatible. Again, do your research

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