Although you might be more familiar with the likes of macOS, Android or Windows to get everything you need from your PC, another popular option is Linux. It's been around since the early 90's and well worth thinking about if you're looking for an alternative operating system.
It gets a little confusing when you get into the technicalities, Linux is essentially the soul of the operating system, it's open-source, completely free and there's several types of software (Linux Distros) to choose from to optimise user experience.
Some laptops (although very few) offer Linux as a baseline, pre-installed programme, you can however install it yourself onto most laptops. It's always best to check which models are compatible with the Linux functions you'll need.
We've rounded up some of the top performers in the field, including popular options from Dell and ACER.
Best linux laptops for 2020
1. Acer Aspire 5 A515-55
If you're looking for a relatively cheap, all around good option, the Aspire 5 from Acer is one to consider. It has a sleek design with a thin and lightweight casing, although robust enough to take on your day to day computing demands.
You'll get crystal clear images with better scope, thanks to the 15.6" Full HD IPS display, narrow-bezel design and Acer Colour Intelligence technology. It's able to keep up with multitasking demands of work with a 10th generation Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM.
Other goof features to note are the impressive 11 hour battery life, embedded fingerprint reader for added security and 512GB SSD memory to store all of your important files, photos and apps.
Price: £649.99, Amazon - buy here now
2. ASUS ZenBook UX362FA-EL142T
Whether you're working, watching or gaming the ASUS ZenBook comes with the looks and the functionality to keep your daily tasks productive and convenient.
The versatile laptop can be used as a laptop or tablet, giving you more ways to watch or type. It boasts a Full HD touch display with 13.3" screen, it's slightly smaller in size which is great if you're working on the go, or if you need to switch quickly between tasks.
There's an 8th generation Intel i5 processor with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD, allowing for plenty of storage and a good performance that is able to withstand multitasking.
If you don't want to pay for an external 10 key, the machine harbours a dual-function track pad and number pad for ease of use with quick calculations.
Price: £699, John Lewis - buy here now
3. Dell XPS 13 7390
For the price, you can expect something great from Dell. Dell is also one of the only manufacturers to loyally support Linux, so if you're looking for the most compatible machines for Linux - Dell is without question one of the best.
Among some of the checklist features to love is the Infinity Edge HDR display, giving you an uninterrupted and optimal viewing experience. There's also a super-small webcam embedded into the top border, which doesn't disturb the design, but instead enhances the innovation.
The 2 in 1 style laptop can be used at multiple viewing angles and is equipped with an anti-glare screen for full protection whilst you're surfing the web. There's an Intel Core i7 processor, with 16GB of RAM and 512 GB SSD, there's a discreet fingerprint reader - which you may have to adjust some settings for once installing Linux.
Price: £1491.99, Amazon - buy here now
4. HP Spectre x360 13-aw0114na
The HP Spectre has everything you'd want from a device, including a compact body and versatile viewing angles to optimise your experience.
It also comes equipped with a HP Tilt Stylus Pen, which utilises pressure sensitivity, allowing you to sketch, doodle, annotate and more. The multi functional laptop features an Intel Core i5 processor, along with 8GB of RAM for handling surfing the web, apps and switching between programmes.
Another reason to love the Spectre is the Sure View privacy screen, which is easily enabled by pressing F1 to make your screen appear darker to those around you.
Price: £1199.95, John Lewis - buy here now
5. Lenovo ThinkPad E595
It may have smooth lines and a lightweight finish, but the ThinkPad from Lenovo is built to last with ironclad durability.
If you're looking for a Linux-friendly laptop that is good for gaming, we'd suggest this one. It can manage the day to day work tasks, but powered with an AMD Ryzen 5, an AMD Radeon Vega 8 Graphics and dual-fdrive storage, you're in for an immersive gaming experience that doesn't lag or crash with activity.
It's got a 15.6" Full HD IPS Display and Windows 10 Pro pre-installed already. Another great feature is the dual-array microphones that are Skype for Business certified - ideal for business meetings and gaming sessions.
Price: £634.98, Laptop Outlet - buy here now
6. DELL XPS 13 7390 13.3" Laptop
If you loved Dell's 2 in 1 device but didn't quite fancy the price, you can buy it as sole-use laptop for £500 cheaper. It won't have the ease of use as a tablet, which could limit you slightly, but if you're not too fussed about function, the laptop is just as good.
It's got an i5 processor and 256GB SSD to keep up with the demands of work or catching up on your favourite shows.
Price: £999, Currys - buy here now
7. System76 Galago Pro
The Galago Pro is another top solution for Linux because of the pre-installed programmes it already has on offer. There's Pop!_OS or Ubuntu at your disposal as well as some decent specs to handle the day to day running of your software.
It's got a 10th gen Intel Core processor, although you're able to build your preferred model by choosing between i5 or i7 technology. You'll also get 8GB of dual channel RAM, as well as a super compact model that weight a little over 1kg, a great idea if you need to travel with it.
The Galago Pro is most popular as it allows users to build their ideal machine, to get the results out of it they want. You can't complain if you build it yourself, right?
Price: From: $899, System76 - buy here now
