this post was submitted on 06 Nov 2025
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Working on the assumption that Win10 being EOL is going to cause an influx of old hardware becoming available, I was thinking it might be a good time to start looking for a good deal on a laptop for travel. It doesn't HAVE to be an old unsupported laptop, but saving something from e-waste is a bonus. Here's the kind of thing I'm looking for.

  • Something small-ish, around a 13" screen.
  • Can install Linux. Generally a given, I know. But I think not always an option with Chromebooks? I'm OK with a Chromebook as long as I can replace ChromeOS with Linux.
  • X86_64 preferred. For games, though obviously not a great platform for that. Not opposed to ARM, but the PineBook Pro is compelling as a small low-cost ARM laptop, it'd have to be a better deal than that.
  • Somewhat serviceable. I'd like to have the option to replace the batteries, storage, and memory. Being able to replace the wireless card would be nice.
  • Durable would be a bonus. It probably won't see a lot of use, but it'll get tossed around in a backpack or in luggage.
  • Specs aren't too important. I like my distros lightweight, and a web browser will be the most demanding thing it'll run.

All of that might be too much of a unicorn, but if I can find a good deal that mostly fits, I'll be happy.

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[–] stupid_asshole69@hexbear.net 2 points 2 days ago

For under $200 you can either get a used thinkpad t series or a dell business notebook. You can also get an Intel mac for around that price. The difference in serviceability is often what can be done by you with a screwdriver set and guitar pick versus needing a hair dryer and plastic putty knife.