So, I have replaced my 320GB HDD, with 240GB ADATA SU650 SSD, just to max out the disk speed.

Here, I want to share my experience using Linux Mint.

Overall, everything works out of the box and the OS is really faster than Windows 11.

Hardware
1. WiFi can connect to my phone 5G hotspot.
2. Bluetooth can connect to my G604
3. Audio works perfectly. Internal speakers works.
4. Keyboard backlight works.
5. Screen resolution is detected correctly. Brightness control works.
6. DVD R / CR-RW works.

Software
1. Installed VLC, able to play MKV, MP4,MP3, M4A. Try some 4K MKV bluray ripped from ahem ahem, play perfectly.
2. Using the default Firefox browser, able to play 4K Youtube perfectly. ( I m kinda surprised actually ) , Pause and play instantly no delay whatsoever.

BTW, I have forgotten the T430s keyboard is so much nicer than my current T14s Gen4.

I will continue to use test Linux Mint in this machine, might report back if found any interesting later.

Update : 29 Nov 2025
I have switched from Linux Mint to Garuda Mokka now as I wanted to move from Debian to Arch.

Same as Mint, the hardware works perfectly as expected.

Software
1. VLC comes preinstalled in Garuda Mokka BUT it doesn't play MKV video out of the box. So I have manually installed the codecs to play it. Done so, now it works fine.
2. Uninstalled the default Firedragon browser, and installed Firefox. Works perfectly now.
3. Installed 4k Video Downloader Plus. Working fine.
4. Installed Spotify. Working fine.
5. Installed qBittorrent, Works fine.

So far Mokka feels as fast as Mint, and its nicer looking than Mint.

Update: 30 Nov 2025
Now I m at Garuda Sway edition, I m happy with this OS. Feels very fast. Macam going back to DOS era.

Certainly a lot of learning curve for this edition, that is what I like about it.

From what I can see, CPU usage is less than 30% and RAM usage is less than 2 GB most of the time.





This post has been edited by piscesguy: Nov 30 2025, 08:46 AM

Obviously it's faster la...

8 GB RAM feels like a lot in Linux Mint.

I have installed Linux Mint in my Thinkpad x100e (netbook) back in 2010.

Yeah, that was a long time ago.

Most Thinkpads are compatible with Linux, so naturally it has ALL drivers for T430s.

AFAIK, many Linux users prefer using Thinkpads.

https://www.reddit.com/r/linuxhardware/comm...or_linux_users/

Later I try Kubuntu as I have many SATA SSDs lying around.

If already fast with Windows, then it's even faster with Linux.

Davinci Resolve can be installed in Linux, thats what I also used in Windows and Mac OS.

I suppose MS. Office can use Microsoft 365 Online.

I still many Blu-rays/DVDs and CDs on my collection.

I have a few more SATA SSDs, collecting dusts now.

1. 500 GB Crucial MX500.
2. 250 GB Samsung 850 EVO.
3. 240 GB SanDisk SSD Plus.

As long as the software exists for Linux → it works on any distro (Ubuntu, Mint, Kubuntu, Fedora, etc.), unless the developer explicitly restricts it.

CDs have sentimental value because they offer a tangible connection to music that digital formats lack, evoking nostalgia through physical ownership, accompanying artwork, and personal memories.

The act of holding a CD, reading the liner notes, and having a physical collection links the music to specific moments, events, and personal history, creating a deeper emotional and nostalgic connection than streaming alone provides.

Tangible connection and physical ownership
Physical object: A CD is a physical item that can be held, displayed, and collected, providing a sense of ownership that streaming can't replicate.

Collecting: Collecting CDs, especially limited or signed editions, adds a layer of value and a sense of personal achievement beyond just listening to the music.

Visual appeal: The cover art and folded-out booklets can be a significant part of the experience, offering larger, more detailed artwork than a phone screen.

Noted. But my T430s is too weak.

So, I have installed another Linus distro, this time on 250 GB Samsung Evo SSD.

I must say, this is a cool looking Linux distro.

It comes preinstalled with VLC. Macam lagi best than Linux Mint.



Attached thumbnail(s)

U tried all from Debian, of course same la.

U should try Red Hat vs Arch vs Gentoo

I moved on to Garuda Mokka later today and will use Garuda sway tomorrow.

Cannot. Must move out from comfort zone.

My ultimate goal is to master Arch!! 😎

Updated Post #1

so far my experience using Linux OS.

Updated Post #1

so far my experience using Linux OS.

Full browser mode on Youtube page.

I didn't pay attention to RAM usage in Mint. Should be less than 3 GB.

Updated.