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.

    • bobslaede
      2·
      1 year ago

      Recently got a used X270 for my kid, for school. It came with windows 11, but I put Ubuntu Budgie on it.
      It cost me about 220 USD in my currency. Very nice computer.

      • pastermil@sh.itjust.works
        2·
        1 year ago

        I’d usually opt for the 30 series due to being able to unlock the BIOS with coreboot, but the 80 series and all that came before should be good.