New, live technology Q&A weekly on You Tube! Email your questions to [email protected], and join live or view the archive for the answers! Use CT RL/CMD+F to search the page for specific models or topics! Trying to maintain accurate prices on every model <2016 was a little nuts. Now, there are ranges of reasonable estimates. More information has been added, including suggestions, resources, and education on the naming conventions for the modern models. The e Bay Guide has been here for some time, but it is hands-down the best way I have found to 'teach you how to fish'. This way, the prices are always accurate to your situation. If you appreciate the effort, a tip with the link above is very much appreciated! Guide updated November 2019.

This Buyers Guide covers Think Pads new enough to fully support Windows 10 with all updates - with models available from $50 on up! Used Think Pads are cheap because they are business-grade computers - and business-grade equipment is purchased new typically every 3-4 years. This is fantastic for the smart or thrifty, as software requirements haven't changed much since mid 2011. Even better, business-grade PC's tend to last far longer, and function far more consistently than consumer or even 'prosumer'-grade technology. This is a freely offered guide on technology that I, and many others, consider to be the best of the best. That said, your mileage may vary - I can't promise how much you will like it. :)

Price estimates are in blue+bold. If you’re patient, you can get one for even less! This Guide is NOT an exhaustive list of all models available. Rather, it focuses on models in the used market. Many of the naming conventions, features, and advantages listed on this page for buying a Think Pad are still valid for new models, however. The reports of the death of the Think Pad brand have been greatly exaggerated. They’re incredibly cheap when you buy a used one. Splash-proof keyboard thanks to drainage holes. Keyboards feel excellent while typing - yes, even the new ones. Great durability: your data is what it protects most, if it happens to be thrown out of a tall building or run over by a truck. The casing will deal with daily wear and tear like it’s nothing. On older models - Utilitarian design, indicator LEDs, great keyboard key layout. (That's why some older models are actually worth more, for those used to the older keyboard, build, and aspect ratio. )Docking solutions that easily turns your laptop into a desktop (some models, old and new, can even use external GPUs!) just by setting it down. Easy to repair, upgrade, and maintain thanks to readily available Hardware Maintenance Manuals for almost every model, and spare parts are easy and cheap to obtain. Very good Linux compatibility. Fed up with Windows? Lenovo certifies Linux compatibility on many models in cooperation with Red Hat and Canonical. Just don't expect great tech support - they're outsourced like everybody else. That's what Reddit and search engines are for. ;)

Want to get started with Linux? I recommend Pop!_OS LTS for ease of use, performance, and battery life. Track Point (that red thing on the middle of the keyboard), is great for those who type a lot or hate swiping their fingers all over a touchpad. They work very well for games and other tasks requiring fine movement, such as artwork/design. It may seem archaic or outdated to some, but for others - it's why they use Think Pads. There are very good reasons to learn & use it! Click here to read the story of the Track Point. e Bay Deal-Finding Quick Guide Finding a good deal really comes down to understanding e Bay sorting. Basically, pick a model, pick specs (IPS screen unless you plan on replacing it yourself), search e Bay, sort search by low to high, potentially use Offers category, make sure seller is highly rated with at least a hundred sales, READ THE DESCRIPTION OF THE LISTING (it may not be functional, and you are only warrantied by e Bay for it matching the description!)