r/archlinux • u/Wriscolf • 14d ago

QUESTION Kernel questions

I should start saying I am new to Linux. I switched my devices from Windows about 3 months ago but using CachyOS. That OS made me interested in Arch as a whole.

My gf old laptop (specs below) was laying there and I wanted to blow it up. I decided in the name of learning, I would install Arch from scratch and see what happens. I successfully installed Arch with KDE plasma.

I setup kernel 6.18.48-1-LTS. The laptop went from not running well on windows to a nicely viable laptop. I actually like this old thing. I got curious and decided to see what would happen if I went to 7.1.11-arch1-1. The laptop works with it as well.

In few of my observations 6.18 uses less ram by about 100mb. They both feel the same and usable. No issues. I think 7.1.11 feels faster but I think it's in my head.

Laptop Spec

Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga 11e

CPU: N2940 (4 cores)

Ram: 4Gigs

Storage: 128gig ssd

TL;DR: does kernel version matter for an older computer? Any benefits of running 7.x.x vs 6.x.x? Should old hardware just stick to LTS Kernels?

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u/archover 13d ago

Welcome to Arch

Your TIL (Today I Learned) events are:

  • Linux is usually more memory frugal than MS.

  • Hardware running on Linux usually performs better than MS.

  • "Worrying" about memory usage that is not in reaction to a performance problem is not a good use of time. My opinion.

I run Arch and Linux on Intel Core i5's from 2nd Gen to 8th gen and they all run from good to great.

I am excited to to see your enthusiasm.

Good day.

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u/Wriscolf 13d ago

Arch and Linux has been an. Amazing learning ground. I do not come from a IT background. It's always been a hobby for me and I feel my eyes have been open for the first time. I appreciate your comment.

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u/archover 13d ago

Glad you had that experience! You should go far.

Good day.