The 10 Best Laptops for Tails | Compatible with Linux in 2023

The Three Top Laptops for Tails OS

Working with sensitive data and information in 2022 is nothing short of a nightmare. Especially when there’s a long queue of viruses trying to sneak in and ruin your day. Luckily, the Tails OS (The Amnesiac Live Incognito System) is there to help you go anonymous and wipes off the traces once you’re done computing. But the question of which system is best for this OS seeks an answer.

We put in hours and hours of research and conducted extensive tests. Through our tests, we found that the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 8 snatches the crown of being the best laptop for Tails OS. Because of the ultimate power, this lightweight yet strong-built laptop carries is the finest bet for a Linux-based OS.

Since not everybody seeks the same thing and has different needs, we didn’t limit our testing to finding the only winner. We’ve also listed other Linux-compatible options that excelled in their performance during tests. Let’s look them out ahead.

Comparison of the Best Laptops for Tails OS

IMAGE	PRODUCT	RATING	PRICE
Best Overall	Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 8 Processor: Intel i7-10510U Screen Size: 14 Inch RAM: 16 GB Storage: 1 TB	9.9	View on Amazon
Runner-up	Dell XPS 13 7390 Laptop Processor: Intel i7-10710U Screen Size: 13.4 Inch RAM: 16 GB Storage: 512 GB	9.8	View on Amazon
Best 2-in-1 Laptop	HP Pavilion x360 Processor: Intel Core i5-1035G1 Screen Size: 14 Inch  RAM: 8 GB Storage: 256 GB	9.8	View on Amazon
Bang for the Buck	ASUS VivoBook 15 Thin and Light Laptop Processor: Intel Core i3-1005G1 Screen Size: 15.6 Inch  RAM: 8 GB Storage: 128 GB	9.8	View on Amazon
Best Designed Laptop	HP Pavilion 15 Laptop Processor: Intel Core i7-1165G7 Screen Size: 15.6 Inch  RAM: 16 GB Storage: 512 TB	9.7	View on Amazon
Best on Budget	ASUS Chromebook Flip C434 2-In-1 Laptop Processor: Intel M3-8100Y Screen Size: 14 Inch RAM: 4 GB Storage: 64 GB	9.7	View on Amazon
Best Value Laptop	Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Screen Size: 15.6 Inch RAM: 8 GB  Storage: 256 TB	9.6	View on Amazon
Best Portable Laptop	Lenovo Flex 5 Laptop Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Screen Size: 14 Inch RAM: 16 GB Storage: 256 TB	9.5	View on Amazon
Best Mid-range Laptop	MSI Modern 14 Processor: Intel Core i5-10210UUMA Screen Size: 14 Inch RAM: 8 GB Storage: 512 GB	9.5	View on Amazon
Best Low-priced Performance	Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Processor: Intel Core i5-1135G7 Screen Size: 15.6 Inch RAM: 12 GB  Storage: 256 GB	9.4	View on Amazon

How We Did the Test?

Our team of computer experts spent hours researching the best for tails laptops using their knowledge and skills. Initially, we chose 26 different laptop models for testing. Through several testing stages, we chose only ten laptop models that appeared to suit different users for final recommendations. During testing, we looked into the following factors for each laptop.

Build Quality

The first thing we looked at after unboxing each laptop was its build quality. Everything from the laptop’s build material to the design, portability, and flexibility was carefully considered. We also assessed how well the laptops handled the heat produced during heavy use.

Overall Performance

After a close look at the build quality, we came to the performance. All the selected laptop models were passed through a series of carefully selected productivity, gaming, and graphics tasks for overall processing and battery performance. We also ran the laptops through benchmark tests for a sense of the overall capability of each laptop.

Pricing

We determined the laptops’ value depending on their build quality and performance testing results. The laptops’ value was compared to their original pricing to ensure they aren’t overpriced and provide the best possible value.

Detailed Review of Our Laptop Picks for Tails OS

The year 2020 was quite fortunate for Linux admirers, as Lenovo decided to dive into the Linux ecosystem. The type of Ultrabook everybody craves, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 8 is the greatest offering for Linux users from the renowned Chinese company.

Like us, you’ll love what it holds. Blended with perfect portability, the X1 Carbon, as the name suggests, is a carbon fiber-built laptop that’s uniquely lightweight and sleek. This light design is what’s going to compel you until you touch it and leave fingerprints. But we totally forgot about that when we saw its vibrant 1080p display, which is more than enough for a Netflix streamer. The 400 nits brightness displayed a bright and detailed view of everything we viewed.

Lenovo has packed a powerful 10th-generation Intel Core-i7 processor to form a powerhouse like this. The 16 GB of memory and 1 TB of SSD storage also come to support the i7 chip and enable uninterrupted computing. During our tests, we were impressed with its smooth and tireless performance on the most demanding tasks. The X1 Carbon was able to run the most resource-intensive tasks without any sluggishness.

Throughout the heavy workload featuring tests, our 1080p model of the X1 Carbon was kept with us for up to 11 hours. Other than all this, we won’t forget to mention the ultimately comfortable, spacious keyboard and touchpad that will surely add up to your productivity and make you stick with it.

Technical Specifications

Screen Size	14-inch
Resolution	1280 x 1080
Storage	1 TB
Memory	16 GB
Weight	2.4 lbs
Colors	Black
Material	Carbon fiber
Dimensions	‎12.71 x 8.54 x 0.59 inches

We were so glad to finally see a head-to-head competition in our testing. Even though the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon ended up as the winner because of its better CPU performance and battery life, the Dell XPS 13’s powerful specifications didn’t fall short in putting up a fierce rivalry.

The XPS 13 is Dell’s take on a slim and slick-designed Ultrabook with extreme specifications. And the fact that it’s one of the best machines to run Linux OS adds it to every developer’s wishlist. We loved how Dell used an aluminum exterior and a carbon fiber interior to form a finely, thin and light machine. But what’s more appreciable is the bright, colorful, low-reflection display that’s ideal for viewing your favorite items.

Inside the base panel, the advanced 10th generation Intel Core-i7 chip is supported by 16 GB of memory to crush your demanding tasks. We made an attempt to bottleneck the CPU through numerous background tasks and dozens of Chrome tabs during our tests. But this beast still managed to get through with no sign of stuttering. Moreover, the battery’s long-standing 8 hours of backup time is another plus for on-the-go users.

Apart from the performance and display, what should not be missed is the premium new maglev keyboard and trackpad. One-click on the keyboard, and you’ll know why we’re obsessed with this shallow travel keyboard featuring thin keys. The glass-layered trackpad also gets all the praise for its convenience.

Technical Specifications

Screen Size	13.4-inch
Resolution	1920 x 1080
Storage	512 GB
Memory	16 GB
Weight	2.8 lbs
Colors	Platinum silver and Black
Material	Aluminum
Dimensions	7.82 x 11.64 x 0.58 inches

Chromebooks are known for their low-end systems and low pricing. But ASUS had different plans when they decided to put in some power in their new Chromebook release. Guess the results? A nicely portable powerhouse with extended capabilities at a great price.

It’s the ASUS Chromebook Flip C434 that has turned heads with a rare Chromebook performance. The Intel Core-m3 chip in the driving seat, combined with 4 GB of RAM, drove us through crucial day-to-day tasks. And the 18 tabs of memory-eater Google Chrome also weren’t enough to freeze our testing. Throughout its testing, we loved how it dragged us through the day, with its battery lasting around 10 hours.

Read More: How To Play A DVD On An Asus Laptop?

Speaking of the build, it’s the aluminum coming into play for a 14-inch chassis finished with spangle silver. Basically, budget laptops are seen to compromise in their build quality and design. But the Flip C434 carries the slim and thin concept with small bezels around its 1080p display. Since we mentioned the display, you’ll be glad to hear that it, too, carries no compromises and is sufficiently bright to be used outdoors.

The speakers are a letdown. You’ll probably need to look for headphones with the speakers placed in an odd position, down the laptop’s base panel. But the premium keyboard featuring backlit keys is another plus to your productivity.

Technical Specifications

Screen Size	14-inch
Resolution	1920 x 1080
Storage	64 GB
Memory	4 GB
Weight	2.9 lbs
Colors	Silver
Material	Aluminum
Dimensions	‎12.6 x 8.2 x 0.7 inches

You don’t have to be guilty of asking for more power at a limited budget because you deserve it. If you feel the budget pick, ASUS Chromebook Flip C434 has something missing, then Lenovo Flex 5 may have you covered with just a bit difference of in price but more power to offer.

The tech rival’s 2-in-1 has it all balanced, from portability to performance and sturdiness. This aluminum-made sole graphite-colored machine is quite a shoulder to rely on with its AMD Ryzen 5 features. Supported with 16 GB of memory, this powerful chipset can be asked for the most demanding of jobs. Just as in our testing, we showered some intensive tasks to check its limit. But everything, it performed as a snap and proved to be a multi-tasking expert.

The only letdown was the dim 1080p touch-enabled display. But the fact that the brighter display costs more battery should make you settle with it. Because its efficient processor and dim display helped the battery to keep it awake for 9 hours. 

It would be fair if we regard it as a laptop that feels more expensive than it actually is. And we mean it’s an overall sleek and stylish look, with the crispier keys featuring a backlit keyboard and a wide, smooth trackpad to travel your fingers through. So with the premium fees available at such an affordable price, we won’t be surprised if the Lenovo Flex 5 bags your heart.

Technical Specifications

Screen Size	14-inch
Resolution	1920 x 1080
Storage	256 GB
Memory	16 GB
Weight	4.9 lbs
Colors	Graphite Gray, Platinum Gray
Material	Partial Metallic
Dimensions	12.2 x 8.43 x 0.67 inches

The home and office-based line-up Pavilion received a different design approach after the success of HP’s Spectre x360. With a 2-in-1 design, the Pavilion x360 not just proved to be a multifunctional device but also a perfect fit for Tails OS because of its wide support and brilliant performance.

First look at this and you’ll be pleased with its slick and stylish looks. Don’t be fooled by its metallic finish appearance because it’s all plastic built yet so sturdy and feather weighted. One thing to note is you won’t find yourself short on ports as this slim-built system has a wide selection of them. The first thing to impress us was the touch-enabled 1080p IPS display with perfect color corrections, wide angles, and crystal clear details. But for the price factor, the brightness is still compromised when used outdoors.

However, performing the 10th generation Intel Core-i5 processor is a thirst-quencher for power seekers. Backed with 8 GB of memory, you can expect it to do all your day-to-day tasks easily. In our tests, at first, we threw some light productivity tasks at it like multitasking with dozens of Google Chrome tabs, and it all went smoothly. But the execution of heavy apps at once made it lose its form.

So you better not overwhelm it with high-end tasks. Also, the battery timings are on the short side, with 5 hours of backup on usual usage. So, if you can settle on only a few compromises for premium quality at less price, here’s the HP Pavilion x360 for you.

Technical Specifications

Screen Size	14-inch
Resolution	1920×1080
Storage	256 GB
Memory	8 GB
Weight	3.5 lbs
Colors	Gold
Material	Plastic
Dimensions	‎12.8 x 8.7 x 0.7 inches

Acer’s popular release, the Aspire 5 is another favorite for Tails OS users. The company’s Aspire lineup has a premium, high-end laptops on the shelves. Luckily, Acer had budget users on their minds and had an affordable variant too.

The Acer Aspire 5’s low-cost variant was made possible through decent AMD Ryzen 5-led hardware. This chip combined with an 8 GB memory can get you through the most crucial of tasks. We witnessed its smooth and efficient performance against our multiple productivity tasks including video streaming, word processing, and browsing. However, we can’t guarantee you about graphics-intensive tasks. The battery tests went great too, with around 7 hours of battery lasting.

Talking about the build, as mentioned that the Aspire lineup is mainly for premium laptops, the low-cost Aspire 5 also got lucky enough to get a solid aluminum design. This sleek designed laptop has practical white and silver color options. The top panel carries a 1080p display panel, which is ideal for streamers with wide viewing angles and clear visuals.

Other things to get you excited are a backlit convenient keyboard with wide key travel, a smooth trackpad, and a fingerprint sensor for a more secure login. So, if you’re seeking minimal compromises in your Tails OS experience, the Acer Aspire 5 is the safest bet.

Technical Specifications

Screen Size	15.6-inch
Resolution	1920×1080
Storage	256 GB
Memory	8 GB
Weight	3.9 lbs
Colors	Silver
Material	Plastic
Dimensions	14.31 x 9.86 x 0.71 inches

MSI has been a gaming-centric company, releasing gaming products and machines. But their quality products now also include great additions for businesses and creators. The company’s ‘Modern’ lineup packs a great value of premium laptops with affordable prices for productivity purposes.

Right out of the box, the MSI Modern 14 appears a stylish yet practical laptop built of aluminum. Once you pick it up, you’ll know why this 14-inch system is ultimately compact. The Modern 14 lets you customize it yourself with beautiful color availability. The main highlights from the chassis are the selection of connectivity ports and little flexibility in both, the lid and base.

The Modern 14 features a 10th-generation Intel Core-i5 chip with 8 GB of memory to let your workflow going on. In our tests, we didn’t see any kind of stuttering while we streamed videos and used it for our regular work. You’ll be more glad to know that it has a dedicated Nvidia GPU for graphics-intensive tasks, too. During usual use, this kept us stick to it for around 8 hours on a single charge, which is another plus to go through the day.

However, the graphics are a bit compromising. Not terrible, but the 1080p display panel delivers a few deadly colors, yet it is bright enough to be used out in the sunlight. So, if the display isn’t a dealbreaker for you, then the solid performance, strong build, and portability are all in here.

Technical Specifications

Screen Size	14-inch
Resolution	1920×1080
Storage	512 GB
Memory	8 GB
Weight	‎2.62 lbs
Colors	Carbon Gray, Beige Mousse, and Bluestone
Material	Aluminum
Dimensions	12.68 x 8.74 x 0.63 inches

What if we tell you that there’s another deal featuring an 11th-generation CPU and still so easy on the wallet? The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 has all you have on your must-haves for Tails OS experience.

Ditching the Celeron CPU in the previous models, Dell has made a big upgrade in its Inspiron 5 3000 release with a powerful chipset and 12 GB memory. With such capable components onboard, you can make it perform the heftiest tasks. We didn’t see it well enough for graphics-intensive tasks, but for productivity and multitasking, it proved to be a total workhorse in our tests. And that too, with 9 hours of battery backup.

This release also has more pixels 1280 x 1080 as compared to the predecessor which had 1280 x 720 pixels. But while the colors are accurate and clear, the display is still not sufficiently bright. Moreover, if we talk about its appearance, the black stylish build is made of plastic but is sturdy enough to give a premium metallic feel.

Another setback may be the subpar speakers that may make you reach for external speakers or a headset. But we guess, these little compromises don’t stand a chance if you’re seeking a robust CPU performance.

Technical Specifications

Screen Size	15.6-inch
Resolution	1920×1080
Storage	256 GB
Memory	12 GB
Weight	3.62 lbs
Colors	Black
Material	Plastic
Dimensions	14.2 x 9.01 x 0.7 inches

ASUS has pulled off another bang for the buck with another least-priced machine featuring ultimate portability and power. The ASUS VivoBook 15’s thin and light chassis carries enough potential for an all-day treat.

The black, plastic-built laptop still lacks a good display, as you’ll miss more brightness on its 1080p panel. However, the color contrast and wide angles are still a thing to cheer for. The VivoBook 15 greets you with a premium, lightweight design that’s fitted with a convenient decent key-travel keyboard, comfortable trackpad, and a good connectivity port selection.

If you’re curious about the performance at this low price, you can rest assured that for a spend of no more than $400, you’ll get a 10th-generation Intel Core-i3 onboard. The powerful chip when combined with an 8 GB of RAM showed us wonders against our tasks while testing. We’ll suggest not overburdening it with massive CPU-intensive tasks, but it will do well against daily productivity, as it performed for us.

However, you can get through 7 hours on its battery with usual usage, that’s enough for on-the-go users. Therefore, the ASUS VivoBook 15 all-for-less deal is sure a must-consider one.

Technical Specifications

Screen Size	15.6-inch
Resolution	1920×1080
Storage	128 GB
Memory	8 GB
Weight	3.5 lbs
Colors	Slate Gray
Material	Plastic
Dimensions	14.1 x 9.1 x 0.75 inches

The HP Pavilion x360 has a fellow from the Pavilion lineup on the list too. But this one isn’t a 2-in-1 but a slim and light laptop that holds the magic inside in face of some serious hardware specifications.

The HP Pavilion 15 has what you seek in terms of performance. An 11th-generation Intel Core-i7 processor, and a 16 GB of memory, isn’t that it? We found it sufficient for even massive tasks during our tests. Dozens of Google Chrome tabs, multitasking, and hefty applications weren’t enough to bottleneck the performance.

In the battery testing, it came short, with only 6 hours of backup on normal usage. Therefore, you’ll have to stay by a power source if you’re planning to pull a nighter. Moreover, with this one, you’ll have to compromise on the display. Because the 1080p display quality is only decent enough, but a bit reflective and grainy.

The good news is the laptop build feels quite strong to go through any usage environment, even though it’s plastic. Other highlights of this elegant laptop are a comfortable full-sized keyboard, a large trackpad, and a good choice of ports.

Technical Specifications

Screen Size	15.6-inch
Resolution	1920×1080
Storage	512 GB
Memory	16 GB
Weight	3.86 lbs
Colors	Natural Silver
Material	Aluminum
Dimensions	14.18 x 9.21 x 0.7 inches

Buying Guide for Best Laptops For Tails

Tails (The Amnesic Incognito Live System) is a privacy-focused operating system that can be used on a USB drive or DVD. It is designed to leave no trace on the computer it is used on, making it a popular choice for users who want to protect their privacy and maintain anonymity online. To run Tails effectively, you need a laptop that meets certain criteria. Here are some key factors to consider when buying a laptop for Tails:

Hardware Compatibility

Before purchasing a laptop for Tails, it is important to ensure that the hardware is compatible with the operating system. You can check the Tails website for a list of compatible devices.

Processor

Tails run on almost any computer with a 64-bit processor, but a dual-core processor or higher is recommended for better performance.

RAM

A minimum of 2GB of RAM is required to run Tails, but 4GB or more is recommended for better performance.

Storage

Tails require at least 8GB of storage space to run, but it is recommended to use a 16GB or larger USB drive or DVD.

Graphics

Tails require a graphics card that supports 3D acceleration to run some of its features, such as the Tor Browser.

Some recommended laptops for Tails are the Lenovo ThinkPad X series, the Dell Latitude series, and the HP EliteBook series. These laptops have been tested and found to be compatible with Tails. When purchasing a laptop for Tails, it is also important to consider factors such as battery life, portability, and durability.

Conclusion

Plenty of laptops options on the market but still you’ve got to be considerate about the compatible laptop to run the Tails OS. While compatibility difficulties may cause you problems, we’ve researched several great laptop models for you to pick up and get started with. 

The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Generation 8 is the best laptop running Tails OS, according to our tests. Because a quick performance packed in a thin, robust laptop design is just as important as compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)