Lenovo ThinkPad T490 from 2019 Is Still a Reliable Linux Workhorse in 2025

If you are a Linux user searching for a dependable laptop that balances performance, durability, and upgrade potential, the Lenovo ThinkPad T490 deserves a spot on your shortlist, even in 2025. I reviewed T490 with Ubuntu 24.04 in my recent video.

Launched back in 2019, the T490 may not be cutting edge by today?s standards, but it continues to hold its ground for engineers, developers, and power users who rely on Linux for their daily workflows. In the video below, I dive into my hands-on experience with the T490 running Ubuntu 24.04 LTS.

Performance That Holds Up

The T490 is powered by eighth generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, and the unit I am testing comes with a Core i5 and 16GB of RAM. Despite its age, this setup delivers smooth multitasking and reliable performance for everyday computing, coding, and light virtualization.

Memory is one of the highlights of the T490. With either 8GB or 16GB of soldered DDR4 RAM plus an additional SO-DIMM slot, the laptop supports upgrades up to 40 to 48GB. This makes it especially appealing to developers or professionals who need extra headroom for virtual machines, containers, or heavy productivity tasks.

Linux Compatibility and Long-Term Support

One of the biggest wins for the T490 is its excellent Linux compatibility. Running Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, the hardware integrates seamlessly, offering a stable and hassle-free experience out of the box. The long-term support release ensures years of updates and a consistent environment for serious work.

Built to Last

Like other ThinkPads, the T490 benefits from Lenovo?s legendary build quality. Sturdy, professional, and comfortable to use, it remains a laptop you can count on whether you are coding at a desk or working remotely on the go.

Alternatives to Consider

If your budget allows, you may want to look at the ThinkPad T14 Gen 1, which I reviewed in a previous video. With 10th generation Intel or AMD Ryzen processors, it offers a more modern performance profile while keeping the same ThinkPad DNA.

Final Thoughts

Even though it is a few years old, the ThinkPad T490 is far from obsolete. For Linux users, especially engineers and developers, it strikes an excellent balance of performance, upgradability, and reliability. Combined with Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, it is still a machine I can confidently recommend in 2025.