Installing Linux on a modern laptop offers users an alternative operating system. Distributions like Ubuntu Desktop and Arch Linux provide different approaches to the Linux experience.
Installing Ubuntu Desktop
For those considering a move to Linux, Ubuntu Desktop provides a guided installation process for laptops and PCs.
It is recommended to use hardware listed on the Ubuntu certified hardware page, as these devices have been tested to work well with Ubuntu. Before beginning the installation on a laptop or PC that has been used previously, backing up your data is advised. This tutorial guides through the steps required to install Ubuntu Desktop on your laptop or PC [1].
[1] https://ubuntu.com/tutorials/install-ubuntu-desktop
Arch Linux Performance on Laptops
In one author’s hardware experiment, Arch Linux kept pace with Windows in 7-Zip tests. This is a result for that setup, rather than a general comparison of the operating systems. Specific hardware configurations, such as those with high-resolution displays and advanced graphics capabilities, can be utilised.
One report detailed a setup featuring a display running at 3840 × 2400 resolution and 120 Hz, incorporating NetworkManager, PipeWire, and rootless Podman with NVIDIA CDI [2]. This demonstrates the potential for Linux to leverage high-end laptop features.
[2] https://josie.lol/blog/linux-rtx-spark
Linux Distribution Considerations
When installing Linux on a modern laptop, the choice of distribution is a key factor. Ubuntu Desktop offers a user-friendly installation [1], while distributions like Arch Linux allow for more customisation and can be configured to maintain performance levels comparable to Windows in certain benchmarks [2].
For any installation, especially on hardware previously used, ensuring data is backed up is a standard recommendation [1]. The compatibility of hardware with a chosen Linux distribution is also an important consideration [1].