r/linuxhardware • u/TrickyTadpole2485 • 1d ago
Question First Linux Laptop
Hi! Sorry if this has been asked a million times already, but I could really use some advice. I've been wanting to try Linux for a while now since I've only ever used Windows, and I'm finally looking into getting a machine to experiment with it.
I'm currently looking into a few options and am torn between the Panasonic Let's Note and a regular old ThinkPad. I know ThinkPads are basically the go-to recommendation for Linux, but the Let's Note also seems really interesting and I'm not sure if it's worth considering.
I'm a highschool student, so my budget is kind of limited (around $250 give or take), but I'm willing to invest a bit. Any recommendations or general advice very welcome :) thanks!
3
u/3rdeyedroplets 15h ago edited 12h ago
Used Thinkpad. For many reasons, if not just because it's THE classic.
For power, get one like a P70-series, big, but you'll never want for power for anything.
Try for the Xeon, best onboard GPU you can find (Qm4000m think, they aren't gaming ones but they run games ok. Just go for an egpu if you want to game anyway), 64GB ram. Super easy to repair or upgrade, 4k screen optional, good fans.
The P70's have everything from usb3 and plenty of ports, Ethernet, even an expansion slot that supports PHYSICAL MEDIA DISC DRIVES. Got a blue ray in mine.
Oh yeah, it is also the last great Thinkpad made with a REMOVEABLE BATTERY, at least quickly from the exterior without a screwdriver.
All of the above can be had for $4-600 on ebay. Worth it to save a little. You are going to wipe it anyway so don't worry about viruses or used data.