ThinkPenguin?

Hello,
I'm looking to upgrade to a better laptop soon, currently using a Lenovo Ideapad 320. I'm willing to spend a good amount ($1k+) for something that will last me for a while. I was looking at System76, but they seem somewhat over-priced, and gaming is not my primary focus(although a plus). I am having trouble finding any reviews on ThinkPenguin laptops, does anyone have any experience with their laptops or know anything about them? Also looking at ThinkPads, as they seem to be very popular in the Linux community. If this post is in the wrong section, I apologize in advance. Thank you for any feedback!

Hi gurmi-goldsmith,

Welcome to LQ.

I think you're in the right forum for this question.

I've had success with Acer laptops and linux and I especially appreciate the price / quality balance.

I used to use Thinkpads almost exclusively for years, going back to the 1st IBM models. My linux experience on these has always been good. I am sadly unfamiliar with their current lineup of models.

For $1K you'll definitely be able to find a good system - you could probably find something quite good for half that.

Cheers.

gurmi-goldsmith,

Welcome to LQ.

Don't be too eager to part with your cash!

As Rickkkk says, you can spend considerably less and still pick up something decent.

I second his advice to look at Lenovos either new or used.

The T480 and E590 models spring to mind but there are other suitable ones.

E590:
https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/laptops.../p/22TP2TEE590

Do plenty of research and wait for other LQ members to pipe up.

Thank you for the replies!


Is this a ridiculous price for what is being given? It seems fair to me, and I would much rather support this company.

Have a look at the Dell XPS Developer Addition:

https://www.dell.com/koa/search?q=xp...radioGroup=bsd

I have dealt with ThinkPenguin as a customer and was satisfied, but all my current computers are Zareasons.

Thank you for all the input!

gurmi-goldsmith,

Feel free to support ThinkPenguin if you wish.

Personally, I would rather buy a Lenovo E590 @ $635.40.

But I'm looking to get a powerful laptop, basically almost as powerful as a decently powerful desktop. That E590 only has 8gb memory and no SSD. I did find this, though it has mixed reviews. Most of them are positive.

https://www.amazon.com/Lenovo-Thinkp...SIN=B07TGGKM71

and actually for ten more bucks you can get a 500gb HDD with it.

I only gave that link as a starting point. You know your specific requirements.

Whichever way you look at it the E590 is much better value.

It is your money, so if you prefer the ThinkPenguin one, go for it.

Yes, doing more research, I am almost certain that I'm gonna take your advice and go with the Thinkpad E590. I can upgrade the memory and much more if needed. Thank you beachboy2. I am new to all this, especially hardware. I've learned a lot doing this research.

Originally Posted by gurmi-goldsmith But I'm looking to get a powerful laptop, basically almost as powerful as a decently powerful desktop. That E590 only has 8gb memory and no SSD. I did find this, though it has mixed reviews. Most of them are positive. https://www.amazon.com/Lenovo-Thinkp...SIN=B07TGGKM71 and actually for ten more bucks you can get a 500gb HDD with it.

Looks good - I'd go for the larger SDD for $10 more .. surprised it's not more of an increase. Make sure the 500GB drive isn't mechanical ....

Cheers.

gurmi-goldsmith,

I am pleased that you did your research before laying out your cash.
I hope you enjoy your new E590.

Just looking for the right one now and contemplating which distro I'm going to go with. Thank you beachboy2, Rickkkk, kilgoretrout, and frankbell helping me. I'm also looking to get my GF a used Thinkpad from ebay. She wants to learn Linux now too!!

I will change this thread to solved. Thank you.

gurmi-goldsmith,

So that's now two Linux converts!

This link might help in your search for a suitable Linux distro:
https://www.linuxquestions.org/quest...ossible-38100/