Re: Laptop replacement

On 26/03/2025 19:02, The Natural Philosopher wrote:

On 26/03/2025 17:34, Theo wrote:

FYI there was a typo in the uk.d-i-y in the newsgroup line of your post:
>
Chris J Dixon <chris@cdixon.me.uk> wrote:

Most of my computing is done on my desktop PC, but I have a
laptop which is handy for occasional use, and also as a fallback
in case of failures.
>
My Lenovo Thinkpad T450, which I bought refurbished 5 years ago,
now has a bulging removable battery pack, which has been taken to
a safe place. Additionally, the fan is making noises, which I
hope I have addressed by cleaning. It will run on the internal
battery.
>
It seems that Lenovo do not support Windows 11 on this machine,
so its safe life is limited in any case. Apparently there are
ways to get round this, but each new Windows update could
introduce fresh issues.
>
In this context, and accepting that I want to remain in the
Windows environment, I am unsure that spending money on
replacement parts is justifiable, and am considering a new
laptop.
>
My use is mainly MS office applications, no gaming, and I do not
anticipate removing it from the home. Therefore I want something
which is OK with Windows 11, and has appropriate capability.
However, size, weight and battery life are much less important.
Reasonable warranty is desirable.
>
I would welcome any pointers and recommendations.
>
Chris

Its not Lenovo that don't support Windows/11 on that machine, it simply does not meet the Microsoft minimum hardware requirements. The CPU is too old I5 Gen 5 and it only has TPM 1.2. To be supported on Windows/11 you need an I5 Gen 8 CPU and TPM 2.0. Microsoft has set the bar for Windows/11. There are many PCs from every manufacturer out there that in terms of CPU Speed and RAM would run Windows/11, but don't meet the security requirements above.
The oldest T-Series that supports Windows/11 is the T480 with the I5 Gen 8 processor. This is also the last T-Series with the dual battery. It is missing a CD drive but I can't remember when I last used a CD and the USB charger ports are delicate. consider a short patch lead or  magnetic connector

 Well I have had pretty good results for MY needs with HP laptops
BUT anything to run Windows 11 seems very expensive. Like £400
 

Its supply and demand. I would say most laptops which still work will run Windows/10 laptops, but anything pre 2018 will probably have TPM 1.2 and/or non-supported CPUs so now have a fixed "end-of-life"...

Whereas a Windows ten capable refurbished is under £100

Well yes , no one wants them....
.... you can get one for £330 with 1-year warrenty.

 Try 'laptops direct'
 

Also Tier-1, Newandusedlaptops4u, gigaRefurb, Morgan Computers
I usually buy via e-bay these days, but Amazon has them at similar prices. Do check the revues...
Dave
G4UGM
Dave