The Linux operating system is the go-to solution for many when it comes to getting the most out of aging or marginal hardware. While it runs equally well on multi-thousand dollar setups, it really shines when you need a powerful operating system but lack the computing horsepower to support Windows. The most important criteria when it comes to selecting a netbook for running Linux is hardware compatibility. Some netbooks simply offer better support for Linux than others out of the box. Here's a quick rundown of three of the best netbooks available on the market at the moment for Linux.

ASUS Eee PC Seashell 1015PEM-MU17-BU
The Asus Eee PC 1015 sports the Intel Atom N550, which is clocked at 1.5 GHz, and is supported by 1 GB of speedy DDR3 RAM. You can also bump the stock memory up to a maximum of 2 GB, which is not a bad idea considering how memory-hungry many current applications have become. Like most other Eee PCs, this particular model features a 250 GB hard drive running at 5400 RPM. That's enough on-board storage for most users. Add in the fact that you get 500 GB of Asus online cloud storage with your purchase, and you've got a grand total of 750 GB for backing up your data.

When it comes to real world usage scenarios, the Asus Eee PC does an admirable job of balancing battery life, multi-tasking, and raw performance. The Intel GMA 3150 integrated graphics chip outputs respectable picture quality to the 10.1", 1,152x864 pixel screen. While it can't handle high-definition video like some more expensive models, it's tough to beat this level of performance for under $300. Best of all, it can deliver up to 10 hours of battery life off of a single charge. Most importantly, it offers superb Linux support for every distribution from Ubuntu to Fedora and everything in between.

Toshiba NB505-N508BL
One of the most consistently underrated computer makers on the market, Toshiba nonetheless has a flare for putting out stylish and competent models that stand the test of time. The hardware specifications of the NB505 are identical to the Asus Eee PC in nearly every area. It's got an Intel Atom N455 CPU, Intel GMA 3150 Dynamic Video Memory Technology 4.0 for graphics, a 250 GB hard drive, and a 10.1" screen. Equipped with 1 GB of DDR2 memory which is expandable to 2 GB, it's tough to find any real differences between this notebook and most of the others in this category.

As far as performance is concerned, it runs lightweight Linux distributions just as fast as any other netbook. The areas where Toshiba really shines are in build quality and styling. It's easily one of the best-looking compact notebooks available. It also feels substantially more solid than most other netbooks out there. The keyboard is sturdy without too much flex to it, affording a tactile experience you don't often get from machines that cost less than $300. It deserves bonus points for having an excellent trackpad that works flawlessly with any Linux distribution you throw at it. If overall quality is your top priority, the Toshiba NB505 is the netbook for you.

HP Mini 1103 XT994UA
Though not the king of the low-end notebook world like Asus, HP still puts out some respectable hardware in the budget category. By now, you're probably familiar with the hardware that comes standard with the HP Mini 1103. With a 1.66 GHz Intel Atom N455 CPU and Intel GMA 3150 integrated graphics, the Mini doesn't immediately strike you as a speed demon. Unlike the two other models in this comparison, this HP sports a 7200 RPM, 250 GB HDD. In addition, it comes with 2 GB of DDR3 RAM by default. That at least saves you the trouble of upgrading the memory yourself.

Aside from more RAM and a quicker hard drive, this HP model is fairly run of the mill as far as ultra-mobile notebooks are concerned. It features a backlit, 10.1" TFT LED screen that offers 1024x600 pixel native resolution. And it comes with an SD card reader and multiple USB ports to support a wide array of peripherals for all your computing needs. Every user-friendly Linux distribution tested on the HP Mini thus far managed to effortlessly install drivers for the Ralink wireless card as well as all other hardware detected without any hassle. As far as installation and operation is concerned, the HP Mini passes the Linux test with flying colors.

Conclusion
One of the nicest things about the Linux operating system is its versatility. If you're determined enough, you can get Linux to run on practically any machine. Where netbooks are concerned, most of us prefer a computer that simply works right off the bat without any niggling hardware-related issues. Any of the lightweight notebooks listed above will work flawlessly with Linux and deliver a smooth and streamlined computing experience without a whole lot of hassle. When it comes to the best bang for your buck in terms of Linux reliability and performance, these budget-friendly gems are tough to beat.