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.

  • Possibly linuxEnglish
    8•1 year ago

    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

    • @[email protected]OP
      1•1 year ago

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

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

      • Possibly linuxEnglish
        2•1 year 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