Hello everyone,
I currently use Linux as my personal operating system and really enjoy it. I’m now looking for a reliable laptop for my business.
I’ll mainly use it for office work, software development, and programming in C++ and Python. I use Debian, so good Linux compatibility is important. Durability and repairability are also high priorities, since I plan to use it as my primary work laptop every day.
Could you recommend any laptops that would be a good fit?
Framework and System76 aren’t options for me because I’m located in Costa Rica, where they aren’t readily available.
Thank you!
Lenovo has pimped out the Thinkpad name ever since they bought it from IBM. Whilst some thinkpads are still durable (the business class especially) they also slap the name on some very poorly made laptops. Worth spending time researching models rather than just assuming every thinkpad is built like they used to be.
A very brief version: Look for T-series with specs you like. W works too if that branch is still around. Xnnn series is pretty good, X1 not so much. L series is a consumer brand, a bit better today but specially first L-models were just trash.
Thanks for adding the model ranges, @IsoKiero@sopuli.xyz
Why don’t you like the X1s?
I’ve had OpenSUSE Tumbleweed running on a Carbon Gen 11 for a year now with no issues. The fingerprint reader and touchscreen both worked out of the box.
The X1 line is more integrated and they aren’t the line to buy if someone wants to upgrade their laptop. The RAM is soldered on the board to get it as thin as possible, for example.
I have a gen 9 X1, and it runs Linux great! It’s also not getting upgraded aside from the SSD.
tbh, the lenovo models are more durable than ibm ones. the last ibm thinkpad (t43) has fragile plastic housing while the first lenovo model (t60) has sturdy magnesium rollcage.
most if not all T/X/P models are still good. worse than 2006~2013 models in some ways, but still miles better than other laptops on the market.
I wouldn’t completely disagree with what you’re saying, but ThinkPads are absolutely still the most reliable laptops you can buy in their respective price range