Experiences with System76 Ubuntu Laptops: A Comprehensive Review
When it comes to purchasing a laptop that runs on pure GNU/Linux, System76 has certainly made a name for itself. However, the experience with these machines can vary greatly. Let's dive into a detailed review to understand the pros and cons based on personal experiences and user feedback.
Personal Experience
My experience with System76 laptops has been mixed. I owned two System76 laptops, both of which were part of the Oryx Pro and Galapro Pro series. My first experience with a System76 laptop was with the Oryx Pro 15" in 2016. This machine was a powerful workhorse but was somewhat like any other heavy-duty laptop—it was large, heavy, and quite powerful. Unfortunately, I faced a hardware issue that required repairs, even though my warranty had just expired. The technicians at System76 claimed there was no problem, which left me rather disappointed.
During this experience, I did not complain loudly, but I rebuilt my trust somewhat. However, I wouldn't purchase a System76 laptop again for personal use. This laptop, however, worked well for work due to its capability and reliability on the work desk.
My second laptop was the Galapro Pro 13" 2nd gen in 2017. This is the machine I use for personal and creative purposes. I absolutely love it. It is well-crafted, powerful, and highly portable. If you need a portable Linux laptop with at least 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, the Galapro Pro is a solid choice.
Additional Insights
My father received a Lemur with the fully stacked setup. After some time, I noticed a significant issue with the laptop's sound quality. The volume output was extremely low, making it unusable for movies and music unless headphones were plugged in. This is a design flaw that surprised and disappointed me.
Given the cost of these systems and the fact that the hardware can be quite specialized, I believe it's worth considering other brands for users who don't have a large budget. Lenovo and Dell offer a range of business laptops with robust support. Additionally, it would be wise to avoid systems with Nvidia hardware, as they tend to be more expensive and less windowed for DIY solutions.
Supporting Development
If you're passionate about Linux and want to support its development, consider donating to Linux Mint, Whonix, or Qubes. These projects offer essential services and contributions to the community, and your donation will go a long way in advancing open-source software.
In conclusion, while System76 makes excellent laptops, the experience can vary, and it's crucial to consider your budget and needs. If you're serious about GNU/Linux and willing to invest, a System76 laptop might be a great choice. However, for most users, a less expensive alternative might suffice, and supporting other projects is also a valuable way to contribute to the open-source community.