System76 Gazelle

The System76 Gazelle ships pre-installed with Pop!_OS, which is the company's own custom Linux distribution based on Ubuntu. This ensures out-of-the-box compatibility with all the hardware components, including Wi-Fi drivers and Intel graphics. You also have the option to choose standard Ubuntu if you prefer a more mainstream Linux environment.

Yes, the Gazelle is explicitly designed to be modular and repairable, featuring standard M.2 slots for solid-state storage expansion. You can easily unscrew the bottom panel to access the RAM slots, allowing you to upgrade the memory well into the future. System76 even provides open-source firmware to ensure compatibility with third-party hardware upgrades.

While primarily marketed toward developers and Linux enthusiasts, the Gazelle can handle gaming thanks to its Intel processor and optional discrete graphics. Because it runs on Linux rather than Windows, you will rely heavily on compatibility layers like Proton or Steam Play to run Windows-based games. It runs indie games and older titles perfectly, though brand-new AAA releases might require tweaking.

Because it prioritizes desktop-class components and modularity over sleek aesthetics, the Gazelle is relatively thick and weighs around 4 to 5 pounds depending on the specific configuration. It is noticeably bulkier than mainstream ultrabooks like a Dell XPS or MacBook Air. However, this extra weight accommodates better cooling systems and easily swappable parts.