I'm looking to buy a ~10inch screen netbook that works with Ubuntu. That's probably the easy bit. There are dozens of good options available.
Unfortunately, everything I look at is shackled to its own copy of Windows. I don't believe in paying for something I'm not going to use (unless it's cheaper than any other option).
So far the only thing that really checks the boxes is the Lemur UltraThin from System76 but it's a US company and while they do deliver to the UK now, it would likely rack up import taxes, VAT, etc… Paired with an exchange rate that can go either way, and it looks like it could be a bit expensive.
So I'm looking for UK-based options. Around £400. 7-13" screen (as long as it's small). Either running Ubuntu (or something that can be replaced by Ubuntu) or naked. Obviously with good Linux support… And modern hardware that will last a couple of years.
Best Answer
I already made my point in the question mentioned by aneeshep why you don't necessarily pay for Windows, though Microsoft will get paid a little bit (7 Starter has an almost symbolic low price for OEMs). It simply is less expensive for hardware manufacturers to sell one OS systems only.
From Ubuntu ooB support I have made very good experience with the good old Samsung LC10. It has not a lot of fancy features (lack of HD Video playback IMO the most missing). However it's affordable - but still high end from design and robustness, comes with an excellent keyboard, a bright non-glare display, and a very long lasting power supply.
If however you're interested in modern hardware that meets your needs for "several years" as you say, you might need to wait for the new netbook processor generation (e.g. the AMD Bobcat) that will come in 2011.