I don't run Linux or FreeBSD with a GUI, I only use them as servers. I'm guessing pcbsd.org would be the site to check for running FreeBSD as a desktop replacement.Mike Proctor
By running you probably imply something more than just being able to boot, on a laptop you probably want screen brightness, video (X and friends), power management and wlan to work which is an issue even on Linux on new/recent hardware platforms. Keep in mind that Linux does have more manpower (and commercial support) than FreeBSD so it lags behind even more though people are working hard keeping it up to date.
I was assuming the OP was exactly what you described and was looking for more of a click and go solution. I have used FreeBSD and Linux for my workstation in the past but I've become an Apple fanboy on the desktop since I bought the Mac mini in 2005 when apple released a $499 machine. I still load distros to play with and check stuff out but I've been spoiled by the hardware/software integration of the apple ecosystem. Servers are where I do most of my playing now days and I always seem to end up with a FreeBSD server sitting somewhere.I beg to differ. I (like many many others) am running FreeBSD since eternities as a normal workstation incl. watching movies, surfing, and the whole shebang.
PC-BSD is not the FreeBSD for Desktop users. PC-BSD is the BSD for unexperienced users who need something easy to click and go.
Exactly!Mac's OS is directly based on FreeBSD sourcecode. I'm sure you know this, but I couldn't help saying it.