Why AMD?

Because AMD had the better chips for the majority of the last decade. Intel has only recently caught up.

But they have caught up and so hence my question.

I guess because Panther lake ThinkPads won't ship until April, but definitely something to watch out for.

They do look sweet. I'll wait for the hands-on reviews.

Intel is fine too, for some uses.

I used a work provided thinkpad in 2000 and I really liked it at the time. And I've been dabbling with linux every since then. But only switched my main desktop OS to linux last year (from Windows 11). So my last upgrade cycle linux wasn't really on the cards (for me).

The one thing that makes it harder for me to go the way of the think pad is the lack of models on display anywhere in Australia. For a 7 year commitment I really don't want any uncertainty about the feel of the machine. Lenovo do have plenty of ideapads available at retail and some thinkpads, but not the higher tier.