this post was submitted on 13 Jul 2025
79 points (92.5% liked)
Linux
56416 readers
599 users here now
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).
Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.
Rules
- Posts must be relevant to operating systems running the Linux kernel. GNU/Linux or otherwise.
- No misinformation
- No NSFW content
- No hate speech, bigotry, etc
Related Communities
Community icon by Alpár-Etele Méder, licensed under CC BY 3.0
founded 6 years ago
MODERATORS
you are viewing a single comment's thread
view the rest of the comments
view the rest of the comments
Instead of just throwing random preferences out there, I'll help clarify the field of comments:
There are <250USD used frameworks?
No, I don't think I ever seem one for under 700 USD, despite some "news" saying you could find at 500 USD.
Every time people ask for cheap computers, there is always people sharing their preferences without any regard for OP's listed needs.
I have had more problems with two different Frameworks than most Thinkpads. Battery died, boot/power problems on both the 13 and 16, touchpad problem on the 13.
I prefer the concept of the Frameworks but can’t say they have worked better in practice.
Thinkpad T, P, W, & X (Carbon) are generally pretty solid, though T & X probably better fit OP’s preference for portability. The T series is/was also user upgradable (memory and SSD), usually pretty easily. I think some of the carbon models were also upgradable, but can’t remember. Cruicial’s website is very helpful with this. If the laptop has “Idea” or “Yoga” in the name, it’s more than likely trash. There were some “higher end” Yoga models, but AFAIR none were upgradable.
old T (until t440p) you could upgrade the cpu as well, and they are dirt cheap on aliexpress
Lookup the T38
https://www.dellrefurbished.com/
Check support but can score some great deals on business-class laptops here. They’re machines that are coming off lease from Dell Financial Services.
Framework is a US company and nobody wants to pay a premium to advance fascism thank you very much.
Thinkpads are a safe choice. I have the same use case as OP and i use one. Battery last 7-8h of light use, plenty for a plugless day's work.
Great advice. Framework is the best choice if you can afford it. Seconded your opinions on Lenovo. They're absolute trash now.