Which ThinkPad Should You Get? (And Libreboot notes)

Summary

This video offers insights into the world of ThinkPads, addressing common queries about which model to choose. The presenter, a proud owner of four different ThinkPad models, explains the distinction between T and X series, highlighting the durability and reliability of these business laptops. They emphasize the shift in keyboard design and the implications of newer processors on privacy, recommending older models like the X200 and T420 for their classic design and the ability to eliminate backdoors with free BIOS. The video is an informative guide for those seeking robust, affordable laptops with a preference for privacy and open-source software.

Takeaways

• 💻 The speaker owns four different ThinkPad models and recommends them for their durability and reliability.
• 🔍 There are two main series of ThinkPads discussed: the T series, which are mid-sized, and the X series, which are more portable.
• 🛍️ The speaker emphasizes that ThinkPads are affordable, having purchased all four of their models for less than the price of a MacBook.
• 📈 The quality of ThinkPads has changed over time, with older models, particularly those made by IBM, being considered superior in build quality.
• ⌨️ A key feature of older ThinkPads is the classic keyboard design, which is more tactile and preferred for long typing sessions compared to the newer chiclet keyboards.
• 🔒 The Intel Management Engine (IME) became more difficult to remove or disable starting with the i5 and i7 processors, which is a concern for those seeking privacy and security.
• 🔧 The X200 is the last model that can be libre booted without needing to open up the motherboard, making it a good choice for those who want a free software experience.
• 🛠️ The process of installing libre boot on the X200 is more complex than on the X60, requiring an external programmer like a Raspberry Pi.
• 🔎 The speaker suggests looking for ThinkPads on eBay rather than buying new, as older models offer better quality and are still available at a fraction of the cost.
• 🔄 The T420 and X220 are among the last models with the classic ThinkPad keyboard and also feature i5 and i7 processors.
• 🔄 For those who want a larger screen and the option to libre boot, the T60 and T400 are recommended as they are similar to the X series but with bigger displays.

Q & A

What are the two main series of ThinkPads that people usually talk about?

The two main series of ThinkPads that people usually talk about are the T series and the X series.

What is the difference between the T series and the X series ThinkPads?

The T series ThinkPads are mid-sized and not ultra-portable, while the X series are more portable but don't come at a huge disadvantage in terms of processing power.

Why are some ThinkPad models considered to be of better quality?

Some ThinkPad models, particularly those made by IBM, are considered to be of better quality due to their tangibly superior build and the classic keyboard design.

What is the significance of the X220 and T420 models in the ThinkPad series?

The X220 and T420 models are significant because they are some of the last models with the classic ThinkPad keyboard and are among the first to have i5 and i7 processors.

Why might someone prefer an older ThinkPad model like the X200?

An older model like the X200 might be preferred because it has an Intel Core 2 Duo processor and is the last Libre bootable computer without the more recent Intel Management Engine, which is considered a security risk by some.

What is the Intel Management Engine and why is it a concern for some users?

The Intel Management Engine is a proprietary firmware implementation that can be a security concern as it acts as a separate computer within the computer, potentially allowing for backdoors. Some users prefer to avoid it for privacy and security reasons.

How can one install Libre boot on an X200 ThinkPad?

Installing Libre boot on an X200 ThinkPad requires an external programmer like a Raspberry Pi or a BeagleBone black, and involves physically opening up the motherboard to flash the ROM.

What is the advice for someone looking to purchase a ThinkPad on a budget?

The advice for purchasing a ThinkPad on a budget is to look for older models on platforms like eBay, as they are often available at a fraction of the cost of newer models.

What are the advantages of using a ThinkPad with a solid-state drive?

Using a ThinkPad with a solid-state drive can significantly improve performance, making the older models feel much faster and more responsive.

Why might someone choose a T60 or T400 ThinkPad over a newer model?

Someone might choose a T60 or T400 ThinkPad over a newer model because they are the last models in their respective series that can be Libre booted without the need for an external programmer, and they do not have the more recent Intel Management Engine.