How much data do I have to share to buy a new laptop?

The last time I bought a laptop was 2012. I believe the Windows software was preloaded & discs were provided. Software updates were free. How is it different in 2021?  Are Microsoft Office updates optional, or am I required to give Microsoft my credit card number at the outset?  I avoid auto-renews, registrations, anything where my info is stored. Is that possible today with a new computer? When I make the purchase is my info shared by the vendor with Microsoft? I've been putting this off because I don't even like Windows since 7, and Apple isn't a great alternative imho.

Install linuxmint and you don't have to buy anything because its free.

I think that many of your fears are unfounded. Most Laptops (although not Macs) come installed with whatever version of Windows is currently available, but you will never own Windows. Updates are included as currently are newer versions of Windows.

You will need to Register with Microsoft. I have a legacy Hotmail/msn Address and used it and it's password. There was no cost involved.

Everybody wants your details. If you use that address only, then you will get Spam on it. However, that does not have to be your Primary email address and therefor you can happily ignore it.

SpamelaH,

I last bought a laptop computer 5 years ago, Windows 10 pre-installed.  Setup took some time, more than an hour; you should still be permitted to do the setup without using/having/creating a Microsoft account.  I set up mine with a local user account.