System76 has unveiled the updated Pangolin "Pang15" laptop, enhancing its AMD-powered Linux lineup with a modernized SoC, a stunning 2K display, and an all-aluminum build.
This Linux laptop rounds out 2024 with a focus on quality, performance, and user-centric features that cater to both professionals and enthusiasts.
Key Features
The Pang15 comes equipped with:
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2K resolution display with a 16:10 aspect ratio for a more expansive viewing experience.
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120Hz refresh rate and 100% sRGB color accuracy, ideal for creators and gamers.
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All-aluminum body for enhanced durability and a sleek, premium aesthetic.
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At the heart of the Pang15 is the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor, featuring:
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8 cores and 16 threads.
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Integrated Radeon 780M graphics.
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Zen 4 architecture for excellent performance across a variety of tasks.
Performance and Hardware
The AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS continues to hold its own as a high-performance laptop processor, despite the availability of AMD’s newer Zen 5-based Ryzen AI 300 "Strix Point" SoCs.
These newer processors offer improved power efficiency and RDNA 3.5 graphics, but the Ryzen 9 8945HS benefits from:
Mature Linux support, ensuring stability and reliability for users preferring well-established kernels and distributions.
Integrated Radeon 780M graphics, capable of handling gaming and multimedia tasks efficiently.
The Pang15 offers high levels of customization, allowing users to:
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Configure up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM for demanding multitasking needs.
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Equip up to 16TB of NVMe storage for large files and applications.
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Rely on a battery life rated for up to six hours for on-the-go productivity.
Additional features include:
- Privacy kill switches for the web camera, catering to security-conscious users.
Pricing and Configurations
The System76 Pang15 starts at $1299 USD, making it an attractive option for users seeking a powerful Linux laptop without breaking the bank. The base configuration includes:
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AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor.
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16GB of RAM.
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500GB of PCIe4 storage.
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One-year warranty.
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Higher-end configurations are available for users with more demanding needs.
Linux OS Options
System76 continues to prioritize Linux users by offering pre-installed options, including:
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Pop!_OS 22.04.
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Ubuntu 22.04/24.04.
Both operating systems are optimized for performance and reliability, ensuring a seamless out-of-the-box experience for users who value open-source software.
The Pang15 strikes a balance between cutting-edge design and proven performance.
While it may not feature AMD’s latest Zen 5 technology, its premium build quality, customizable hardware, and mature Linux support make it a standout choice.
Whether you’re a developer, creator, or gamer, the Pang15 delivers an exceptional Linux laptop experience that meets a variety of needs.