A question that many have had over the years is this:
"Can I buy a laptop that’s cheap, and has no operating system on it for my laptop Linux build?"
Yes, and it’s called the debranded laptop.
Currently, all the debranded laptops on NewEgg are "formerly"-HP brand. On the high-price side of things, the most expensive unit is $510, but oh, what a deal. Core i5 430M 2.26GHz, Lightscribe DVDRW, 4GB RAM, 500GB HDD, standard-sized 15.6-inch display. Not bad for the price.
Are debranded laptops "refurbs"?
Yes, they are.
Is there a warranty?
Sort of. On each description for a debranded laptop, it plainly states "Computer Replacement Only Return Policy". The verbiage on this is here. Summed up, this means what you buy is non-refundable, and you have 30 days to replace it if you discover any hardware failures.
Even with these drawbacks, if you were looking for the perfect portable to build your "Linux laptop", you basically can’t do better than this because the "Windows tax" is completely cut out, and that’s exactly what Linux fans like.
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What’s the best Linux OS for a laptop, Arch Linux or Fuduntu?
Arch is fine if your hobby is getting an OS running on your computer. Personally, I have better ways to spend my time. Ubuntu or Linux Mint would be my top choices.