A letter, a use case, and the catch
Our buying grades answer: would we recommend spending money on this model for the job described?
The scale
| Grade | Meaning | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| A | Easy recommendation | A repeatable current Omarchy path on the recommended configuration, with no unresolved blocker in the intended everyday use. Routine setup checks still apply. |
| B | Good choice, with checks | A credible buy for the stated job, provided you choose the configuration carefully and complete the named setup and return-window checks. |
| C | For enthusiasts or a specific need | Buy for a particular capability or because you accept extra Linux maintenance. A general-purpose buyer should consider the B choices first. |
| D | Avoid buying for this use | Known limitations make a new purchase a poor fit for the stated job. Reusing a machine you already own can still make sense. |
| U | Not enough evidence | The evidence is too thin or contradictory to make a buying recommendation. Unknown is not a failing grade. |
What the letter does—and does not—say
A buying grade is an editorial judgment, not a test certification, a cosmetic condition grade, or a percentage of working hardware. It applies to the stated use and configuration, informed by the dated price context. Read the model page before choosing a listing.
We consider the intended workload, installation and maintenance burden, unresolved limitations, upgrade options and the purchase price. We do not average capability icons, count reports as votes, or reward a higher commission.
Each homepage pick carries its reason, main caveat and a link to the full source-backed model guide. Direct Omarchy reports, broader Linux evidence and unknowns stay distinct there. An A requires current configuration-specific support; popularity alone cannot earn it. No A grades are assigned in this first shortlist.
Grades were reviewed . A changed price, new failure, firmware fix or different intended workload can change the recommendation. The same letter can be used in a video only with that use case and the main caveat stated alongside it.