Dell to install Ubuntu Linux by request

Some time ago Dell said it was going to offer Linux preinstalled on some of its systems but it wasn’t sure which distro to use. Public opinion was polled, and the winner turned out to be Ubuntu. Dell has not officially confirmed that it will install Ubuntu by request, but this is expected very soon.

Now, there is a slight problem with this. All those fancy discounts, rebates and other “perks” you get with a PC laptop will not bring the price down. That’s because these systems won’t have any of the “bloatware” or other “optional” software that is typically installed on a Windows based computer. Take it as you want, for me, the higher price is a bad thing. Then again, I build my own desktops for gaming which requires Windows, not that I mind Windows. I would also not be very tempted to get a laptop with Ubuntu on it but some might.

According to Wired Blogs you will have a choice of three models, an e-series Dimension desktop, an XPS desktop (what good is that with Linux on it) and an e-series Inspiron laptop. Prices are said to range from $400 to $900 for the desktops and $900 to $1150 for the laptops. As it stands now a basic Dell desktop with Vista can be had for $359 and a basic laptop for $549 so it does look like if you want Ubuntu you are going to pay a premium which in my opinion really isn’t worth it.

Though there is a good thing here, if you purchase one of these Ubuntu computers from Dell, it will be supported by Dell (I’ll let you decide if that is a good thing or bad thing) and I’m assuming that means the operating system as well, if it doesn’t then… prepare for headaches.

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