Looks like I can third that?
I just did a side-by-side comparison of Lenovo, Dell, Apple, and System 76. These were my requirements:
- Core i7-2960XM Extreme (8MB L3 Cache, 2.70GHz)
- 1920 x 1080 or higher screen resolution
- 15.9" or smaller
- Manufacturer openly supports booting Linux
You may say I'm not the typical user, but I'm typing this on a Macbook Pro. I'm a power user and I do indeed need the 2960XM Extreme 2.7GHz. I also have to have the portability of a 15" and be able to develop software and engineering solutions in remote locations. So yes, I'm not the typical user. But I am a typical professional, and I have found Macs to be the best tool for the job - in the past.
About that manufacturer support one: since this is my primary work laptop, I'll only be buying one that I can send in for warranty service and overwrite the OS with Linux.
The results:
Dell: They have a paltry list of "no OS" options. Most of their laptops top out at a Core i7 2.50 GHz. Fail.
Apple: They don't support any other OS's. I'll compromise - Mac OS is based on BSD. But they also top out at a Core i7 2.50 GHz, and the screen is only 1680 x 1050. Oh, and to get even just those two specs: $2,549! Fail!
Lenovo: has a No OS special offer but also tops out at a Core i7 2.50 GHz.
System 76: Right here.