cross-posted from: https://lemmings.world/post/17468408

I am thinking of buying a relatively cheap laptop that is reasonably powerful. I am at loss when it comes to new CPU naming and its compatibility with Linux (from both Intel/AMD). I prefer Ryzen 5 or Core 5 above with atleast 16GB RAM.

Framework laptops are not available where I live.

I saw some Reddit posts claiming AMD being not optimized for Linux particularly for arch related distros (I use EndeavourOS). I am thinking of buying a Thinkbook from Lenovo, but confused b/w team blue & red.

Which of these CPUs are better for running Linux long-term with respect to optimizations, power management, thermals, track pad support etc. If anyone has a laptop recommendation, please feel free to comment down below.

Also, should I go for a high end Laptop like Asus Zenbook S14? A lot of reviews are picking it as the best compact laptop to buy this year. Its expensive. But if it keeps working for a long time, like 6+ years, then I don’t mind investing.

Edit: I use Gnome as my DE with EndeavourOS, but can also try Debian 12 with Gnome.

  • circuitfarmer
    4•6 days ago

    This also has big implications in the desktop space. A Ryzen 7 9700x has a 65 watt TDP. A modern 8-core desktop CPU so power efficient that air cooling is perfectly fine.

        • @Subdivide6857@midwest.socialEnglish
          1•4 days ago

          What do you think cools the fluid? Air.

          There are plenty of great air coolers that can keep up. Most of the AIO coolers can’t keep up with the best air options.

          If you’re looking to OC and squeeze out a negligible amount of performance, then a custom loop would be alright, but it’s never been an absolute must to liquid cool any desktop grade processor.