StarFighter 16 inch: 4K Coreboot/Ryzen Linux laptop (starlabs.systems)

Article summary

The StarFighter is a 16-inch Linux laptop with a 4K display, available with AMD or Intel processors, and features a removable webcam, wireless kill switch, and built-in disk encryption. The laptop is designed for sustained performance and has a customizable firmware. It is available in two configurations, Standard and Ultra, with varying levels of performance and security features. The laptop has a lead time of 4-5 months.

Main themes

• Linux laptops
• hardware design
• performance and security
• pricing and value
• vendor review practices
• upgradability and customization

What commenters say

• Some commenters are skeptical about the laptop's existence and availability, citing the lack of prototype pictures and review videos.
• Others have expressed concerns about the price, stating that similar laptops are available at lower prices from other vendors.
• The soldered RAM is seen as a drawback by some, who prefer upgradable RAM for flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
• A few commenters have defended the design choices, citing practical engineering reasons for soldered RAM and the benefits of integrated LPDDR5X memory.
• There are differing opinions on the value of the laptop's Linux support and security features, with some seeing them as worth the extra cost and others not.
• Some commenters have shared their experiences with the company's previous laptops, reporting positive results and build quality.
• The discussion also touched on the topic of vendor review practices, with some questioning the independence and honesty of review channels.
• A few commenters have criticized the company's pricing strategy for storage upgrades, seeing it as overly expensive and exploitative.