Are you looking for modern Linux laptops with coreboot? The wait is over. Coreboot is a free and open-source software. The coreboot project aimed at replacing the proprietary BIOS firmware and blobs. System76 recently announced two Intel laptops with Coreboot, which as an alternative to proprietary BIOS. These laptops are using Intel 10th Gen CPUs.
Modern Linux Laptops with Coreboot for Linux Enthusiast
Currently, I am using x200 with coreboot. However, the hardware is way too old and outdated. System76 is a Linux computer maker, and they will begin shipping two of their modern laptops with coreboot. Until today, System76 laptop bios was not freed. However, the coreboot port for the newer devices is done. It means you can have Coreboot running on a full-fledged modern laptop that respects your privacy and freedom.
System76 open firmware is coming!
From the product page:
Get open source firmware powered by Coreboot for a secure boot that’s 29% faster. Pre-order now for exclusive first access. Orders ship the last week of October.
Modern Galago Pro and Darter Pro Linux Laptops Config
The specs are as follows for modern laptops with coreboot firmware from System76:
| Config | Galago Pro | Darter Pro |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | 10th Gen Intel Core i5-10210U or i7-10510U | 10th Gen Intel Core i5-10210U or i7-10510U |
| GPU | Intel UHD Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics |
| Display | 14.1″ 1920×1080 Matte FHD | 15.6″ 1920×1080 Matte FHD |
| RAM | Up to 32GB Dual Channel DDR4 @ 2666 MHz | Up to 32 GB Dual Channel DDR4 @ 2666 MHz |
| Storage | M.2 SSD, 2.5″ 7mm height drive. Up to 6TB total | M.2 SATA or PCIe NVMe SSD. Up to 2 TB total |
| Expansion | USB 3.1 Type-C with Thunderbolt 3, 2 × USB 3.1 Type-A, SD Card Reader | USB 3.1 Type-C with Thunderbolt 3, 2 × USB 3.0 Type-A, 1 x USB 2.0, SD Card Reader |
| Networking | Gigabit Ethernet, Intel Wireless-AC, Bluetooth 5 | Gigabit Ethernet, Intel Wireless-AC, Bluetooth 5 |
| Video Ports | HDMI, MiniDP | HDMI, MiniDP |
| Audio | Stereo Speakers, Mic, Headphone & Mic Jack | Stereo Speakers, Mic, Headphone & Mic Jack |
| Camera | 720p HD Webcam | 720p HD Webcam |
| OS | Pop!_OS 19.10/18.04 LTS Ubuntu 18.04 LTS |
Pop!_OS 19.10/18.04 LTS Ubuntu 18.04 LTS (64-bit) |
| Open Source System 76 coreboot/EDK2 firmware | Yes | Yes |
| Security | Disabled Intel ME Kensington Lock |
Disabled Intel ME Kensington Lock |
| Battery | Li-Ion – 35.3 Wh | Li-Ion – 54.5 Wh |
| Charger | 40 W, AC-in 100–240 V, 50–60 Hz | 65 W, AC-in 100–240 V, 50–60 Hz |
| Weight | Starting from 1.3 kg/2.87 lbs | Starting from 1.6 kg/3.6 lbs |
| Price | Starting from US $949 | Starting from US $999 |
| Shipping | Ships to 60 countries | Ships to 60 countries |
The only drawback is they don’t ship laptops everywhere due to customs and legal issues. Not their fault, in any case. Some counties have stricter laws regarding importing computer systems.
Is it a 100% open source without any binary blobs?
Coreboot itself is opensource; however, Intel CPU depends upon the binary blobs for modern Linux laptops. The good news is Intel ME is removed or disabled permanently on newer Linux models from System76. I think it is a step in the right direction despite few binary blobs (e.g. FSP), and I hope someday will get pure open-source firmware for modern Linux laptop.