Many probably take this for granted, but I remember well the painful years about 3 to 4 decades ago where Microsoft would have prohibited us having this choice at all.
Yes, back then any OEM wanting to get the discounted price of having Microsoft Windows pre-installed on their desktops or laptops, was only allowed to sell Windows desktops and laptops. So all that a buyer would find to buy, would be PCs with Windows on. Many ended up buying a Windows PC (including paying for that Windows license) and then formatting it to put Linux or a different OS on.
This was how Windows became so dominant today. Today it does not matter much to Microsoft as they are firstly not interested really in selling to the end user, and secondly they have entrenched themselves into schools to ensure the youth are exposed to their OS and apps early on.
It is great that today at least buyers can choose freely what they want to buy, and if they buy a Linux laptop, they won’t be paying for a Windows license.
So, if you are intending to run Linux on your PC or laptop, and want to buy a ready to use device, then try to support these PC makers.
The PC makers mentioned are:
- Kubuntu Focus
- Laptop With Linux
- Star Labs
- System76
- Tuxedo Computers
- Dell (still offers this, but not exclusively)
See https://www.perplexity.ai/search/does-dell-still-make-a-laptop-QpJV0PmKTyGcvc6nhIMWbg