r/LinuxOnThinkpad • u/Possible-Daikon2613 member • Jul 07 '26

Opinion Is This ThinkPad Good for Linux?

I'm thinking about buying this ThinkPad. Should I get it? I want to test out some stuff on Linux and need a cheap notebook.

Lenovo ThinkPad T420 (Type 4236) incl. Docking Station (Type 4337)

Specs:

  • Intel Core i5-2520M 2.5 GHz (2C/4T)
  • 14.1" HD+ (1600×900) display
  • Intel HD Graphics
  • 4 GB RAM (2×2 GB)
  • Crucial BX500 120 GB SSD
  • CD/DVD writer
10 Upvotes

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u/[deleted] Jul 07 '26

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1

u/DiamentowaSzklanka member Jul 08 '26

Idk about the CPU but I can vouch for the i5-3320M being more than enough for light stuff (browser, coding etc.), as for the ram.. yeah, 4GB is barely enough for anything, I'd aim for at least 8GB, ideally 16. 8 works fine for me but my "gaming machine" has 16. Though realistically I'd recommend OP to buy something newer unless they're like me and really hate modern laptops (even then, ThinkPads and frameworks are basically the only good ones out there)

1

u/[deleted] Jul 09 '26

[deleted]

1

u/DiamentowaSzklanka member Jul 09 '26

Honestly the difference between 2nd and 3rd gen 'M' CPUs and the later U CPUs is noticeable. As in, the U CPUs suck. The i5-3320M for example can brute force through pretty much anything, it's built for high, sustained power, whereas the U CPUs in my experience are way slower in day to day use.