Lenovo’s new ThinkPads score 10/10 for repairability

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Lenovo’s latest ThinkPad T‑series laptops have earned a 10/10 repairability score from iFixit, thanks to features like modular Thunderbolt ports, easily replaceable keyboards and LPCAMM2 memory that avoids soldered RAM. Many users welcome a major OEM embracing repairable design and report generally strong Linux support and long-term durability, though some complain about limited display options, soldered Wi‑Fi chips, higher prices, and lingering distrust of Lenovo over past security incidents. Several commenters also question iFixit’s objectivity and the AI‑like, marketing-heavy tone of its writeup, especially given its disclosed business relationship with Lenovo.

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.