Dell Ubuntu Linux buyers were recently outraged when a price comparison between identical Inspiron 1420 laptops showed that instead of the Ubuntu system being cheaper, it actually ended up costing $225 more than the same laptop with Vista Home Basic Edition.

In cases where computers are available pre-installed with either Linux or Windows, it is almost always the case that either (a) the Linux one is slightly less expensive or (b) the Windows one is actually less expensive, so you might as well just buy the Windows version and install Linux. Apparently, this is not always the case.

I find Dell's half-hearted commitment to Linux as frustrating as everyone else. It took me forever to find the actual link on Dell's site to their Ubuntu offerings (hint: they look exactly like Google AdSense sponsored links and it just says "open-source PCs"). Once you find it (or even if you use the direct link), you are greeted with a warning page about Ubuntu.

In the US Dell has famously started offering Ubuntu on selected machines as a direct alternative to XP or Vista. Fortunately these machines cost less than their Windows counterparts and that's good, but Dell really should consider moving beyond offering Ubuntu; and here's why.

Dell's Ubuntu strategy once again faces Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt (FUD). Multiple times in the past 12 months or so, Dell's strong Ubuntu efforts have been undermined by disappearing desktop offerings. Here's what's wrong - and right - with Dell's Ubuntu initiatives.

I declare Shenanigans! Dell is at it again with their Inspiron Mini. When Dell first launched open source PCs on their desktops, they did the same thing. Why do they even offer Ubuntu if it costs more? Why would someone pay more for Dell to install Ubuntu? Are they deliberately trying to spurn the adoption of Linux?

The latest panic in desktop-Linux-land was that Dell would no longer be selling Ubuntu pre-installed on laptops and netbooks. Alas, for those who love drama, it wasn't true. In fact, Dell is expanding its Ubuntu desktop offerings.

When the Dell/Ubuntu machines were announced, it was possible to extend the default warranty to 2-4 years as well as adding "CompleteCare" accidental breakage protection. These options have since been quietly removed from all Ubuntu systems though they remain on the Vista ones. Is Dell serious about supporting Linux or was this all just a PR stunt?

As far as we can tell, on Dell's cumbersome UK website the price of the cheapest Inspiron 1525 with Vista home premium is £359. The same specification machine with Ubuntu is £379.