Anyone in here has a System76 machine?

If so how is the quality?

 

I've not purchased one, but if you look at the models they offer all the relevant parts are from Clevo barebones. For instance the Serval Professional is built on the Clevo W860CU (or similar model), which is also available through Sager rebrands and other direct sales.

In general, Clevo PCs are very powerful and well built, but tend towards being thick, lacking style or premium materials. You're not going to find a lot of Sony Z or MacBookPro style backlit keys or aluminum multitouch pads, but if you want something that's maximum power and lower cost, Clevo and others like System 76 are good to go. I sent System 76 a note not that long ago asking if they could please carry one "Premium" thin-for-the-power model, as I'd like to support their Linux-friendly business.

 

After looking thought them they look like good solid machines but I'm a bit surprised they still have 45xx vid cards.

Maybe I'll wait a month or so and see if there is a refresh.

 

System76 is good but their hardware can be behind, also check out http://zareason.com/shop/home.php?cat=250

I have no affiliation or experience with either company.

 

they can be good imo if you catch them right after a new hardware release so they are more current (Clevo it looks like). What's best about them is the support side. They are not cheap though relatively speaking.

 

Roll your own. Pick out a whitebook, add some components and then install Ubuntu, or whatever Linux distro floats your boat.

You'll probably save money and be happier with the laptop.

 

I thought about buying one but I ended up buying an Asus. Sleeker, faster and less expensive. I thought about getting a Sager but I'd have to import so that was no go for me. I'd agree with v1k1ng1001, make your own.

 

Where do you buy a ULV CPU at?

 

You can get some ideas from sites like these:

http://www.powernotebooks.com/
http://www.xoticpc.com/

Basically these guys find high-quality whitebooks from taiwan (MSI, Sager, Asus, Compal, etc.) and assemble them to your liking. The advantage, obviously, is that you get what you want and you don't have to pay bill gates for some OS you're not going to use.

I've bought an MSI and a Compal from powernotebooks in the past and am totally satisfied. If you buy their rebranded models, they offer a free three-year warranty. Both business owners (Donald and Justin respectively) post here.

Price one out and if it is still too high you can dig around on ebay or zipzoomfly for the chassis and components.