Obligatory comment that recommends Framework, as they support linux out of the box.

Aside from that, more important than the brand is the laptop model. Some parts (like fingerprint, camera or touchpad) may not work with linux, and that depends on the model, not the brand. So I'd suggest searching for the model you're interested in, and then combining that search with Arch (usually has the latest - but sometimes unstable - packages, so you'll see what's probably possible), Debian (wide user base, but older packages, so you'll see what definitely works) and then EndeavourOS, to see any issues that may come up that are really relevant for you.

Obligatory watch for those interested in buying a new laptop. TL;DW: the latest generation of CPUs is such an improvement over the last one, that it feels like you're seriously missing out if you don't buy one of 'm.

Assuming that Arm-powered Linux devices aren't 'ready' for your workloads, we're left with the latest by AMD and Intel.

However, it's noteworthy to mention that these aren't provided by traditionally Linux-first vendors like NovaCustom, System76, Star Labs or TUXEDO computers yet.

Heck, these are currently only found on laptops by ASUS, HP, Lenovo and MSI. And from within their offerings, none are sold with Linux OOTB yet. This isn't important for easy install (as I've yet to find one bundled with EndeavourOS anyways), but it is for proper Linux support so early into its lifecycle.

So, quite frankly, I'd suggest you to abstain from buying a device right now as it might lead to buyer's remorse. Instead, consider buying one at next year's Black Friday.

However, if you truly need one device right now, then I'd stick to one sold with an AMD Zen 4 processor. Furthermore, either ensure that the device is sold with Linux OOTB, or check out its ArchWiki entry to see how well-documented it is and buy accordingly.

For specific device recommendations, you seem to be particularly interested in making use of Black Friday deals, and thus I'd assume that price is an important factor. Unfortunately, most Linux-first vendors aren't particularly known for offering great buck for your money. This does make it easier to choose, though.

Taking all of the above into consideration, we actually arrive -perhaps unsurprisingly- at Lenovo's Thinkpad line of devices with AMD's Zen 4 processors.

Lenovo ThinkPad

Other options: Framework, Dell Latitude

Used ThinkPads and Dells with Linux for a decade before switching to Framework two years ago. The Framework is great but it's probably not as cheap as you can get a ThinkPad deal for. That said, repair costs on a Framework are likely lower than any other option. Batteries are cheap, motherboards aren't cheap but they're available and very easy to swap, so the next time you have a serious problem you won't have to swap the whole laptop. Assuming Framework remains a good company till then.

I'm not sure about MSI, but most Lenovo, especially if it's a business model, will be supported pretty well and will probably have a page on the arch Linux wiki dedicated to it or it's series.

Lenovo has a solid track record of the Linux community getting things working if at all possible. A lot of us like Lenovo laptops.

That said, there's new options where the manufacturer actually actively intentionally supports Linux. The two I am most aware of are System76 and FrameWork.

Framework has an extra price premium because the parts are all replaceable. So probably cheaper in the long run, but more cost upfront.

The feedback I've seen on System76 gives me the impression that the System76 team set out to replace their own Lenovo laptops with something that doesn't need the constant Linux support checks for each hardware generation.

Source: my own shopping for my next laptop.

Framework works good for me and they are supporting linux.

Dont buy Lenovo, both of mine broke after a year of light usage at home. Keyboard buttons on one, trackpad on the other.

They have a reputation from old that they are built like tanks, but Lenovo changed all that and now it's plastic and shitty components.

I find that Dell is very Linux friendly, some of them even comes with Ubuntu installed and supported on them.

You can find a slightly used one for a few hundreds $, and they are easy to upgrade, repair, etc, buy a Precision or Latitude that is coming from a company replacing them after 3 years.

From my experience MSI has been solid. Changed the battery once in 6 years of ownership. Others have had shitty times with hinges and such. However I have an nvidia version and although I don't struggle with things, VMware hates nvidia and needs the integrated Intel GPU. I use Mint btw.