Lenovo’s new ThinkPads score 10/10 for repairability

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Modular RAM and New LPCAMM2 Standard

  • Many are excited about LPCAMM2 as a repairable, efficient alternative to soldered RAM and as a way to keep up with high-speed memory requirements.
  • Some worry about long‑term availability of CAMM modules 10+ years out, compared with standard DIMMs/SODIMMs.
  • CAMM is seen as a technical response to signal‑integrity limits of traditional slots at higher speeds.

Repairability Score and iFixit Credibility

  • The 10/10 score is widely praised as a meaningful shift toward user‑serviceable laptops (e.g., modular Thunderbolt/USB‑C boards, easier keyboards).
  • Critics argue this is more “replaceable subassemblies” than true board‑level repair and may mean costly OEM parts.
  • iFixit is accused of bias and “repairwashing,” especially given its business relationship with Lenovo and perceived inconsistencies in scores vs. other laptops.
  • Several commenters say the article and even Lenovo quotes read like AI‑generated marketing copy, reducing trust.

ThinkPad vs Framework and Other Vendors

  • Many long‑time ThinkPad owners cite decades of positive experience, easy upgrades (RAM, SSD, screens, batteries) and strong Linux support.
  • Framework is praised for ethos and parts logistics but criticized by some for price, reliability issues, and “newcomer” mistakes; others report excellent experiences.
  • Lenovo is seen as bringing Framework‑style modularity (especially ports) into a high‑volume mainstream line.

Linux, Firmware, and BIOS Issues

  • Recent ThinkPads are generally reported to work very well with Linux and NixOS, including fingerprint readers on some models.
  • Firmware updating is a sore spot: Lenovo’s Windows‑centric EXE process is called awkward; fwupd support exists but can conflict with secure‑boot setups.
  • Other OEMs (especially HP, some Dell) are criticized for buggy or even bricking BIOS updates.

Display, Keyboard, and Form‑Factor Trade‑offs

  • Complaints about limited screen options: no high‑refresh panels and often only 1920×1200 in some regions; some see 60 Hz as fine, others as unacceptable in 2026.
  • Keyboards on older ThinkPads are fondly remembered; some say quality has slipped, others are satisfied with current T‑series.
  • Debate over plastic vs metal: high‑quality plastic + magnesium chassis is defended as more durable than trendy metal/glass.

Longevity, Security, and Pricing

  • Many report ThinkPads running solidly for 8–10+ years with only batteries, fans, or keyboards replaced; refurb ThinkPads are praised as great value.
  • Some still distrust Lenovo due to past incidents (e.g., Superfish, firmware concerns, Chinese origin), though others mitigate by immediately installing Linux or coreboot where possible.
  • New ThinkPads are seen as significantly more expensive than older generations, with some arguing the value proposition is eroding even as repairability improves.