Dell is now selling Ubuntu 8.04 preinstalled
July19
For some time Dell Computers has been selling computers on their website with Ubuntu preinstalled. As recently as a couple of days ago, that meant version 7.10. Today I noticed that they have changed the lineup of computer systems on offer, and have upgraded their offering to version 8.04, Hardy Heron, with DVD playback enabled. I am currently in the market, and this is looking good to me.
For comparison, System76 and zareason are some of the front runners from among the other quality vendors offering Ubuntu preinstalled on their computers. There are also several other retailers doing likewise. One of the companies linked in this article is likely to end up with my business.
Note: I received no compensation of any kind for making this post.
If you are in the market you should build a new computer from parts, get exactly what you want. If you want a laptop you can find much better deals than dell even if you have to install the OS yourself. If I was using Ubuntu and it came pre-installed on the computer I would STILL reinstall it just so that I know exactly how it is set up.
I already have sold a few computers with Ubuntu at the OS, and the people were happy. We also put Ubuntu on all computers that buy no OS simply to test the hardware.
Maybe if you ever move back to AZ we can work together and make a great Ubuntu Computer building company.
Jason
Hey Jason,
I don’t mind installing an OS myself at all, but I do like the idea of supporting companies who make it easier for those without the technical skill to do so to still use open source software, especially Ubuntu since I am such a part of that particular community. I have built laptops, and could/would do so again, except for that reason.
Now, the idea of starting an Ubuntu based computer company has merit. After I’m back in the area and settled, let’s talk about it.
While I prefer building my machines from scratch, getting together a machine with fully Linux-supported hardware can be a tricky affair. I\’m glad some big names are finally getting into the prefab Linux box business. I think it will benefit everyone by getting Linux into the hands of people successively less capable of or interested in rolling their own machines.
*grumbles at her apostrophe being \”escaped\”*
I’ve never built a computer in my life. I like that they’re preinstalling Ubuntu. Preinstalled Linux is a good thing.
Used Ubuntu for a few years now and would hate to switch back. As far as I’m concerned Dell has another customer! I don’t necessarily dislike that other brand but I don’t like having it shoved down my throat either. pay attention computer manufacturers, we the people like choices an especially when it is our money going down, we don’t like being dictated to!