The laptop market remains dominated by Windows and macOS, but a small group of vendors is building a business around preinstalled Linux. System76, Tuxedo, and Framework each offer machines that ship with Linux out of the box, targeting users who want more control, better security, and no bloatware. According to a recent WIRED review, these laptops are no longer just for developers; they are viable for casual users too.
System76's Lemur Pro is the recommended pick for most people, praised for its light weight, all-day battery, and solid performance. Tuxedo's InfinityBook Pro 14 is positioned as a MacBook replacement, with a high-resolution matte screen and extensive power-tuning tools. Framework takes a different approach, emphasizing repairability and modular ports, which appeals to users who want to upgrade or fix their own hardware.
The article notes that Linux can run on almost any computer, but these vendors differentiate by optimizing hardware and software. They also offer their own distributions—Pop!_OS from System76 and a Kubuntu-based OS from Tuxedo—which adds to the user experience. While the market share is small, the existence of multiple dedicated vendors suggests a sustainable niche for those who prioritize openness and customization over mainstream convenience. The source does not provide sales figures, but the continued updates to these product lines indicate steady demand.