Coreboot BIOS installation requires a CH341A programmer, SOIC8 test clip, and USB extension cable, costing about $10-$15 total from China.

Upgrading to 16GB of fast 1600MHz RAM with CL9 timings is recommended for better performance over CL11 timings.

Installing an SSD can notably improve the G505s's speed, particularly if staying on older Windows versions or switching to Linux for lightweight performance.

The G505S is supported by the open-source coreboot BIOS, enhancing security with no proprietary UEFI issues and offering custom RAM timing options.

The laptop runs better with Linux distributions like MATE/xfce compared to Windows, due to the lighter system requirements of Linux.

Tiny11, a modified Windows 11, can run on minimal specs but is not officially supported or secure, requiring a legitimate Windows license.

The laptop is ideal for Linux users due to its open-source BIOS support, making it a strong candidate for those prioritizing security and customization.

For basic tasks like using office applications and browsing the internet, the G505s can be refurbished with an SSD and Linux installation.