Linux

Lenovo/Thinkpad will certify certain models for use with Linux, other brands sell Linux laptops. Those are obviously good indicators that those models should be safe to choose. More generally, the more popular a model is, and the longer it's been on the market the more likely they are to be compatible, just because they are in people's hands and people tinker with them and add stuff to the Linux Kernel. So stay away from the latest model that is uncertified, and don't choose the flashy, overpriced model that will see poor sales.

Avoid NVidia graphics and Broadcom WiFi.

For near-guaranteed compatibility, there are dedicated manufacturers like System76 and Tuxedo. Framework also claims Linux compatibility but for set tested distros (Ubuntu and Fedora).

Generally, anything with Intel/AMD graphics and Intel Wifi is pretty much guaranteed to work in my experience. For laptops, high-DPI displays can be problematic but the fixes are on Wayland which is getting higher priority now.

As a genera rule avoid Nvidia. Also google the fingerprint sensor and wifi model before buying. General advice like "Thinkpads are fully linux compatible" is rubbish. Take your time to Google all idiosyncrasies of your desired model.

I just collect junk from my friends and install Linux on them, lol, you get what you get and make it work

Check out framework laptops

AMD or Intel Graphics. Intel networking, Atheros, or a chipset that is known to be friendly with Linux.

CPU support is fairly diverse.

Sound is fairly well supported but with some devices can be a surprise, as are touchpads. Touchscreen and webcams are generally a bit more dubious.

With desktops, I very rarely have issues but it's also easier to pick my own hardware. For laptops, I usually don't buy something that's new to market unless the component models are known to work. If it's been around for a bit I can usually Google comments by somebody else who's got one and tried to run Linux on it.

I think your best bet is Framework laptops. If not, ThinkPads have superior Linux support.

Otherwise, pick your favorite model and read online. Also see if you can find your preferred model on Arch Wiki (laptop page).

Myself some time ago I've purchased Asus laptop. Spent quite some time (hobby) to get everything working (e.g. fan control) and documented everything in Arch Wiki.

Then I've got Asus Zenbook. Also had to participate in kernel bug report and test, because there were no audio. Eventually it got fixed in upstream and started to work.

Then I've got MSI gaming laptop. Had to participate in Intel DRM code issue, because 2K 240Hz panel was limited to 2K60Hz mode and eventually it got fixed too in upstream. Few workarounds are there and there, but eventually got it to work almost 100%, but audio is a bit...broken. Works fine, just first few secs after silence are silent.

Basically what I am trying to tell - manufacturers might introduce software-controlled hardware features that might work only in Windows. It requires experience and extensive knowledge to make everything manageable on Linux. :)

I usually go for business level dells, like latitudes. They're the go-to for corporations so they're usually pretty well supported simply because they're so common

tuxedocomputers.com

Do you mean like System76?

In general its not about the CPU or GPU. Even Nvidia works kinda okay on some Devices, at least according to Nick from TheLinuxExperiment. Some apps like Davinciresolve require it, and cuda is also only supported on Nvidia. Mobile AMD graphics are kinda underpowered for some tasks.

Its more about weird hardware that isnt supported, Fingerprint readers, even keyboards going into some weird hibernation and you need to hard reset the PC as you cant control it anymore (Acer swift). Some devices like Microsoft Surfaces need a custom kernel.

Lots ot refurbished business laptops like the Lenovo T series, HP or Dell business series works well, as they also dont have weird components.

Check linux-hardware.org and if you have a running laptop, install their HWprobe and run it, to share that your laptop is working. With comments you can add what is really working etc.

Personally I would also care about Coreboot. Checkout Novacuston (EU) or System76 or Starlabs, they have Coreboot laptops. I mean, installing Linux on some laptop with a proprietary garbage Bios that doesnt get updates (!!!) anymore is pretty hypocritical. Coreboot is awesome but rare, its awesome that there are some companies and people making it run on new hardware, so I would check those out.

And... maybe dont get an M1 Macbook ;D

You basically already know the drill; buy it from a Linux-first vendor that offers devices that you can afford. A list of vendors can be found here. Personally, I'm quite fond of NovaCustom and Star Labs. Fortunately, both have 'cheaper' offerings with their NJ50 Series and StarLite respectively.

Generally it doesnt really matter but if you can it's best to avoid using nvidia gpus although they will work under Linux they don't have as good support doesn't mean you can't use a nvidia gpu under linux if you want or have to I mean I've got a nvidia gpu in my gaming laptop and while it's a pain to setup it works somewhat well for gaming

Use a system76 laptop for work. Came with popos and works like a charm.

something strong enough to be a stable link in my entire network; if that makes sense. Because I have many plans for things I want to learn about and add to my network or system down the road.

You need to check out Fedora Podcast EP: Getting Fedora with your Lenovo. For the first time they take laptop compatibility with Fedora Linux ecosystem seriously and announce it with such a deep detail on how they do that.

how am I supposed to know which machines are better or even “compatible” with Linux? like all linux distros or flavors?

I think Thinkpad line seems to be your right choice. Not for all linux distros, but at least Thinkpad has used by many developers in the world, so probably more compatible than other laptop brand IMO.

I always had chance installing Linux on Dell Latitude laptops. MX Linux works flawlessly, everything.

Maybe Slimbook? I haven't bought one yet but it's definitely on my close watch.

https://slimbook.es/en/

Dell is well known for their proprietary fuckery, both in hardware and software. Pretty much anything other than a Dell or an Ultrabook like the Surface or MacBooks (obviously) should give you very little issue. Look for something that uses Intel NICs and you should be fine, Realtek NICs are poorly supported in Linux.

they pretty much all run linux ootb. Question is: What devices run without binary blobs underneath the OS?

Buy it from tuxedo

Buy it, install Linux, see if it works.

If it doesn't, return it and buy something else.

Computers usually have 30-days no questions asked return policies.

If you're listening to people that say to buy specific things, then odds are you going to be paying more for less.

Don't let their theory replace your experience.

Have you considered a steam deck? Might work for you based on mentioning a small display and wireless keyboard.