I’m looking for a portable, very compact linux laptop.
Screen size: 12 inch or smaller Weight: less than 1 kg (2.2 pounds) Full hd screen
I did some googling and i only found a CHUWI laptop that suffers from an overheating issue.
Just go with a Framework 13. Yes it’s 13 inch instead of 12 inch. But you will get the best possible Linux laptop out there. And it’s also fully repairable and upgradable. I have the latest Framework 13 AMD 7040, yes AMD. And… do not forget to select the new 2.8k display. Allowing for the first time to just select 200% DPI scaling that just works for Linux! So no scaling issues.! https://frame.work/nl/en/products/laptop-diy-13-gen-amd/configuration/new
And select “7640U - 2.8K Display”.
Framework laptop 13 is just a bit above 1kg. It’s 1.3kg… It is worth weighing this choice (you get the joke? hah, guhmm). If you really need something super compact and very light, maybe a old-school “netbook” will do.
Like the GPD WIN Mini (7 inch, that is super compact, right?)… But really get a Framework laptop hehe.
Lol. Did you see GPD’s 10 inch laptop?
Your best bet is an Intel Macbook Air with 11.6" screen from a few years ago. They’re even lighter and smaller than the current macbook airs. I have one myself running Linux Mint 22. Just make sure it has 8 GB of RAM (it works with 4 GB too, but you can’t have too many tabs open). They sell for $200 refurbished.
Hey, that sounds very interesting. It’s there anything not working as it should work that hw/sw combo?
It usually all works except the wifi in some models. The driver exists, and it’s an available download in the official repos (just not in live cds, due to licensing), as long as you have a usb-to-ethernet adapter to install it. However, with Mint 22 I noticed that the wifi driver was finally included in the kernel and livecd by default.
You’re probably better off looking for hardware to meet your spec requirements and then looking into its Linux support.
Older thinkpads would come to mind, usually a good option. Generally affordable, repairable, and can be good for Linux.
GPD might be what you’re looking for? https://www.gpd.hk/
The 10 inch one looks interesting. Thanks! Are these compatible with Linux?
Considering you can buy it with SteamOS preinstalled, I’d say probably so yeah.
Yes this one. The 7 inch: https://gpdstore.net/shop/gpd-handheld-gaming-pcs/gpd-win-mini-2024/ . You wanted really really compact?
X1 Nano:
- narrower than the old 11.6 laptops and slightly taller.
- Higher than 1080 screen due to the taller ratio.
- IPS display
- 0.97kg without charger.
- Thinkpad keyboard and track point.
- strong Linux support
Here is the PSREF for the first generation. They are up to Gen 3 of this line now.
