Looking for an alternative to the Windows operating system? Then you should consider buying a Linux notebook. These operating systems are open source and customizable (Linux kernel).

Among the main differentials of Linux is that this operating system is free as well as most programs. In addition, it is quite safe, so don’t worry about viruses.

When purchasing a Linux notebook you can choose one of the numerous interfaces available. You can find versions suitable for personal, professional or business use.

The Linux operating system is also an excellent alternative to give survival to older computers – you find some very light options.

But regardless of your purpose of use, some factors must be taken into account before purchasing a Linux notebook. Know all the strengths and weaknesses of the system in the next section.

To help you decide if the Linux notebook is the best option for you, we have analyzed the positives and negatives of using a notebook with this operating system.

Most affordable price

As it does not require a Windows operating system license, a Linux notebook is sold at a reduced price, even if it has the same technical specifications.

The reduction in value can be very negative. For information, we researched the prices of different versions of Windows on the official Microsoft website (prices researched in June 2022):

• • Windows 10 R $ 730
  • Windows 10 Pro $ 1099
  • Windows 10 Pro for Workstations R $ 1599

One of the biggest concerns when migrating from Windows to Linux concerns the software that runs on that operating system. Although popular programs on Windows do not have a native version for Linux, there are interesting alternatives:

• • E-mail : Linux offers options for e-mail clients, such as Thunderbird or Mailspring. This second is free, but offers a subscription option to access extra features.
  • Browsers : In this category, there are not many differences, since the Linux notebook runs the browsers Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Vivaldi, among others.
  • Audio editors : The Linux system also has some very popular audio editors like Audacity, Ardor and LMMS.
  • Image editors : Although it does not have a native version for Adobe Photoshop, the Linux system offers the traditional GIMP and Inkscape.
  • Audio players : This operating system has very interesting options for listening to the music stored on your computer like Clementine and Banshee.
  • Video players : Use the popular VLC Player or SMPlayer to play videos stored on your computer.
  • Office Suites : Although it is not possible to run the Office Package programs, you can use LibreOffice programs or even the online versions of Microsoft programs. Other options are WPS Office and Apache OpenOffice.

For those who are in doubt about the differences and similarities between the Linux and Windows operating systems, we have prepared a section dedicated to the subject.

• • Permission to use : You must purchase the Windows license to use the operating system on a computer. With Linux, just download and run the system on as many computers as you want, free of charge.
  • Target audience : In its origin, Windows was focused on the professional audience, with the passing of the years it started to encompass the general public. Linux was created to reach developers.
  • Source code : Since the Linux system is aimed at developers, any user can access and change the source code to customize the system as they wish. Windows has source code blocked from all users.
  • Programs : Most programs are designed to run on the Windows system, but we cannot say the same for the Linux system that contains a limited number of programs.
  • Technical support : When the user has a problem with the Windows system, just make a small query on the Microsoft support page to resolve the issue. We cannot say the same for Linux (however, users can find solutions in discussion forums).
  • Usability : Navigating the Windows system is very simple, as there is only one platform. Linux has several styles of platforms, so you need to find the one where you will feel more affinity.
  • Security : Compared to Windows, Linux is the most secure operating system, as the number of users is less. As it is less used, it is more difficult to appear the dreaded viruses.

Before migrating from Windows to Linux, you must back up your files so that these documents can be accessed on the new operating system.

An important tip for those who want to use the Linux system is to test different distributions to find the one that suits you best. Tip: Install Linux in Dual Boot, to run both operating systems on the same machine.

Purchasing criteria: How to choose the best Linux notebook at the moment

Several factors must be taken into account when purchasing a Linux notebook in addition to choosing the best operating system distribution. Among the various purchase criteria, we highlight:

• Operating system version
• Processor
• RAM memory
• Storage

We will detail each of these criteria below. If you have any questions, leave a comment.

Operating system version

Have you decided to buy a Linux notebook? So know that there are several distributions available, you will find options for older computers, suitable for personal or professional use. We list the main distributions of the moment below:

• Linux Ubuntu is the most popular version, as it supports notebook or desktop computers.
• Linux Mint is one of the main distributions of the moment, as it offers good performance and low consumption of RAM. Windows-like platform.
• Elementary OS is suitable for those who have a more powerful computer and are looking for a generous collection of applications. Platform similar to MacOS.
• ZorinOS offers a platform and navigability similar to Windows. Although it is free, there is a paid version that brings some additional benefits.
• Linux Deepin stands out for its distinctive look and ease of use. The Chinese version gained notoriety for being installed as a standard operating system on Huawei computers.

Other very popular versions of the operating system are Debian, Fedora, LMint, openSUSE, Endless OS and distributions focused on corporate users like Red Hat or SUSE.

Processor

The processor is responsible for executing all the data that the computer receives and sends. This hardware consists of several components responsible for different functions.

The cores are responsible for executing the programs without the machine crashing. The greater the number of cores, the better the computer’s performance. You find the following options:

• Two cores (Dual-Core): Ideal for running simpler programs and accessing the internet.
• Four – core (Quad-Core): implements programs a little more complex.
• Eight cores (Octa-Core): Executes very complex programs and games.

Cache memory stores frequently used information to run it faster. You can find models with 4MB, 6MB, 8MB and up to 10MB of capacity.

The frequency indicates the speed with which the processor performs the functions. You will find basic options with 2GHz, intermediate with 3GHz and advanced with 4GHz speed.

The most popular processors are those of the Intel Core family. For the average user, we recommend Core i3, for the intermediate user, the best option is Core i5, for the advanced user, who uses heavy programs and gamers, the best options are Core i7 and i9.

RAM memory

RAM is used when you access computer programs and applications and is directly related to the speed of the machine.

You find models with 4GB, 8GB or 16GB of RAM, ideal for basic, intermediate and advanced users, respectively. Avoid buying a computer with less than 4GB of RAM, otherwise you will experience frustration with the machine’s performance.

Storage

Although the Linux operating system takes up little notebook storage space – around 10GB – it is important to analyze the computer’s internal memory.

Storage can be done on a 250GB, 500GB, 1TB or 2TB HD or on a 128GB or 256GB SSD card. It is important to mention that the SSD has a superior performance when compared to HD.