Hey everyone! I'm getting into Linux for the first time and I'm planning to set up an Ubuntu system just for fun and learning. I'm primarily looking for affordable options, especially refurbished ones, and I'd love to hear your recommendations before I make a purchase. Right now, I'm considering the Dell Optiplex 5050, which comes with an i5, 16GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. From what I've seen online, that should work for my purposes, but I want to know if anyone has suggestions for even better systems or tips to avoid any mistakes. Thanks!
5 Answers
When looking for PCs, shoot for ones that have either AMD or Intel CPUs and GPUs, and make sure they feature Intel network cards instead of Realtek. This way, you’ll have full Linux support without the hassle of manual installations. Also, tools like Ventoy and Linux Mint XFCE are super helpful for setup!
Absolutely, definitely avoid Realtek wireless adapters. You might run into issues with connectivity there.
Lenovo machines are usually solid choices for Linux. Models like ThinkPads, ThinkStations, or even Lenovo Legion series run really well. Just be cautious with Realtek network cards, as those can lead to problems on Linux systems.
I had a tough experience with the Realtek NIC on a Lenovo G6 Thinkbook and Fedora. It kept disconnecting from WiFi, and finding a fix took me ages! Definitely do some research about the model you're interested in.
In my experience, Linux tends to work on almost any desktop without major issues. If you have a dedicated video card, you might need to manage some drivers, but otherwise, any old computer can run it. Just give it a go; you might be surprised! You can even repurpose an old machine for basic tasks like browsing or using LibreOffice.
If your goal is just to learn Linux, consider running it in a virtual machine instead. It's a great way to test out different distributions without committing to a single system. As long as you don't need it for high-end gaming, you should be just fine doing it this way.
Good point! Would this still work if my laptop isn't super powerful? Also, can you explain the difference between a virtual machine and dual booting for me?
I'd recommend steering clear of the Optiplex line. I've had mixed results with them on Linux. They're often tricky to upgrade with little space for components. I tried swapping CPUs between Optiplex models, and it was a real hassle. I would suggest looking for something more flexible for upgrades and with better Linux compatibility.
Gotcha! Do you have any PC models in mind that you've found easier to work with lately?
Nice tip! Do you know any specific websites where I could search for these PCs more efficiently?