System76 Gazelle Professional Laptop Review & Giveaway

Trackpad Experience

Initial use of the trackpad may feel somewhat unusual due to the complete absence of physical boundaries. This seamless surface requires a brief adjustment period.

However, after familiarization, operation becomes quite pleasant. The trackpad incorporates a single, elongated button for both left and right-click functionality.

Within Ubuntu’s configuration options, users can customize gestures. This includes assigning a right-click action to double-taps or two-finger taps on the trackpad surface.

Customization Options

By default, the laptop is configured for two-finger scrolling in both vertical and horizontal directions. These scrolling preferences are fully adjustable to suit individual user needs.

Customization allows for a tailored user experience, optimizing trackpad control.

System76 Gazelle Professional: Build and Quality

The System76 Gazelle Professional laptop demonstrates a high level of build quality. Its construction feels exceptionally robust, inspiring confidence in its durability even under demanding use.

Four rubber feet are strategically positioned at each corner of the base, providing excellent stability on flat surfaces. This design prevents unwanted wobbling during typing, a common issue experienced with some other laptops.

Thermal Management and Noise

The laptop’s cooling system is thoughtfully engineered for efficient air circulation. Exhaust vents are located on the left side, a preferable placement to rear-mounted exhausts for many users.

During typical operation, the device may become slightly warm to the touch. However, the cooling fan operates with remarkable quietness.

While the fan noise increases under heavy load, it remains within a comfortable and acceptable level. A minor drawback is that the left palmrest area can experience a slight temperature increase.

Despite this, the warmth is not distracting or uncomfortable during extended use. The overall thermal performance is well-managed, balancing cooling efficiency with quiet operation.

Ports and Connectivity

The laptop offers a comprehensive selection of ports for connecting various peripherals. The left side features the power input, a VGA port for legacy display connections, an Ethernet port for wired networking, and an HDMI port for modern displays.

Additionally, two USB 3.0 ports, identified by their blue color, are present alongside an eSATA port and a convenient SD card reader. The exhaust vent is positioned below these ports, ensuring efficient cooling.

Notably, cables connected to these ports remain cool to the touch during typical use. Even under sustained, demanding workloads, they only become slightly warm, posing no functional concerns.

Right-Side Ports

Moving to the right side, users will find an optical drive – a CD/DVD drive or a configurable alternative. A single USB 2.0 port is also included, alongside the standard headphone and microphone jacks.

For security, a Kensington lock port is strategically located on the rear, right side of the battery, allowing for physical tethering of the laptop.

Speakers

The System76 Gazelle Professional incorporates THX TruStudio PRO speakers, positioned on the laptop's front side, beneath the palmrest area. This placement is near the typical wrist resting position during use.

While the speakers offer adequate performance, they aren't exceptional. Their location, however, presents a slight drawback.

Positioned on the front edge, the sound output can become somewhat muffled when the laptop is used on a lap rather than a stable, flat surface.

Even when placed on a flat surface, complete clarity isn't achieved, though the audio quality remains sufficient for general use.

The speakers provide a reasonable volume level, but a marginal increase would be beneficial. If audio fidelity is a primary concern, external headphones or speakers are recommended.

Although the speakers represent a minor point for improvement, they are still considered acceptable overall. Users prioritizing high-quality audio will likely opt for external solutions regardless.

Speaker Placement Considerations

• Location: Front-facing, under the palmrests.
• Impact: Potential for muffled sound when used on a lap.
• Quality: Decent, but not outstanding.

Ultimately, the speakers on the System76 Gazelle Professional fulfill their function, but don't represent a standout feature of the device.

Display Quality

The visual experience offered by this system’s screen is exceptional, potentially surpassing those found on many other laptops. Featuring a Full HD 1080p resolution, the display delivers remarkable clarity and detail.

Its ability to reproduce 95% of the NTSC color gamut results in vibrant and accurate colors. This wide color range is particularly beneficial for tasks requiring color precision.

Anti-Glare Matte Finish

A matte screen finish is incorporated to minimize reflections from sunlight or indoor lighting. This feature significantly enhances visibility in various environments.

The screen’s backlight is highly adjustable, providing a wide range of brightness levels. It can be dimmed for comfortable viewing in low-light conditions, yet remains perfectly readable.

Conversely, the brightness can be increased to a remarkably high level, ensuring excellent visibility even in brightly lit spaces. It's important to note that higher brightness settings will naturally consume more battery power, giving the user control over their preferences.

Performance Capabilities of the System76 Gazelle Professional

The System76 Gazelle Professional laptop delivers exceptional performance. Its powerful Core i7 processor immediately demonstrates its capabilities upon initial use.

Having previously utilized a 2 Ghz dual-core AMD processor, the contrast with this new system is remarkably significant. It handles demanding tasks effortlessly, exhibiting no performance bottlenecks.

Graphics and Visual Output

This laptop doesn't incorporate a discrete graphics card; instead, it leverages the Intel HD 4000 graphics integrated within the processor.

Although some users may express reservations about relying solely on integrated graphics, the HD 4000 series provides a surprisingly satisfying experience. It comfortably supports dual 1080p displays – the laptop’s built-in screen and an external HDTV – simultaneously.

Energy Efficiency and Battery Life

Despite its considerable processing power, the system maintains impressive energy efficiency. This is largely attributable to the processor’s Ivy Bridge architecture and associated advancements.

Interestingly, the battery capacity, measured in Wh, is slightly smaller than that of my previous laptop. However, due to the processor’s efficiency, the Gazelle Professional achieves approximately three times the battery life.

• The Core i7 processor provides a substantial performance upgrade.
• Intel HD 4000 graphics are capable of handling dual 1080p displays.
• Ivy Bridge architecture contributes to excellent energy efficiency.

The combination of power and efficiency makes the System76 Gazelle Professional a compelling choice. It offers a significant improvement in both performance and usability.

Battery Performance

The battery life offered by this laptop is reasonably good. During typical use, approximately 3.5 hours of operation can be achieved while browsing the web at the minimum screen brightness.

While this configuration doesn't necessarily prioritize extreme portability, the included power adapter provides a convenient solution. Considering the laptop’s processing capabilities, its battery endurance is notably efficient.

Usage Considerations

• The stated battery life is based on web browsing at the lowest brightness level.
• Power cord usage extends operational time for increased mobility.
• The laptop delivers commendable battery performance given its power.

It’s important to note that battery performance can vary depending on the tasks being performed. However, for general use cases, the battery provides a sufficient runtime.

Power management plays a key role in maximizing battery life. Adjusting screen brightness and closing unused applications can significantly extend the time between charges.

Linux Distributions

System76 laptops are shipped with Ubuntu as the default operating system. This selection was made due to Ubuntu’s widespread adoption and the robust financial support provided by Canonical.

Ubuntu ensures comprehensive hardware compatibility through its integrated drivers, supplemented by a System76-specific package addressing any remaining requirements, like backlight management.

While Ubuntu is the standard, users retain the flexibility to install alternative distributions. However, utilizing the specialized System76 drivers may not be possible with other operating systems.

It's anticipated that these System76 drivers will eventually be integrated into mainline Linux kernels, rendering them unnecessary in the future. Distributions focused on the latest software, such as Fedora, are expected to function without issue.

Recovery Options

Unlike traditional methods, a physical recovery disc isn't provided. Instead, a dedicated recovery partition is pre-configured on the system.

This integrated recovery partition allows for a full system restoration directly from the laptop, eliminating the need to locate external media during a recovery process. This approach is considered a convenient and efficient solution.

Having the recovery data readily available with the laptop itself streamlines the restoration process and enhances user experience.

Windows Compatibility on System76 Hardware

System76 acknowledges that while Ubuntu is their primary operating system offering, it might not be suitable for all users. Some individuals may have a firm requirement for software like Photoshop, rather than open-source alternatives such as GIMP.

Consequently, all computers manufactured by System76 are capable of running Windows without issue. The company develops and provides the necessary drivers to ensure seamless operation.

Support Limitations

It's important to note, however, that System76 does not extend technical support to customers who choose to operate their systems with Windows installed.

While functionality is guaranteed through provided drivers, users opting for Windows will be responsible for their own troubleshooting and support needs.

Customer Support Experience

Ensuring readily available support is crucial when purchasing a laptop. Customers need confidence knowing assistance is accessible should they encounter problems.

I recently contacted System76 regarding an issue with HDMI audio output to a television. Despite initial difficulties, the problem was swiftly resolved following their guidance during a brief phone call.

I was particularly pleased by the lack of hold time when seeking support. The assistance provided was both prompt and effective, delivered by courteous staff dedicated to customer satisfaction.

System76’s support team demonstrably prioritizes a positive customer experience, and their service is highly commendable.

Additional Support Resources

Beyond direct contact, System76 offers a comprehensive support database known as Knowledge76.

This resource allows users to independently research and troubleshoot frequently encountered issues. It’s a valuable tool for self-service and quick problem resolution.

Final Assessment

In conclusion, the System76 Gazelle Professional laptop proves to be an exceptional device. It delivers the performance necessary for demanding tasks, offers commendable battery longevity, and boasts full hardware compatibility.

For Linux enthusiasts who have encountered challenges with hardware support on conventional laptops, acquiring a machine engineered specifically for Linux represents an optimal choice.

Key Recommendation

• MakeUseOf's advice: A purchase is highly recommended for consistent Linux users.

The Gazelle Professional effectively addresses the common frustrations experienced by those seeking a seamless Linux experience on portable hardware.

Its combination of power, endurance, and complete functionality makes it a standout option within the Linux laptop market.

Securing a System76 Gazelle Professional Laptop: A Guide to Entry

Step 1: Completing the Giveaway Entry Form

Participants are requested to submit the giveaway form, providing their genuine name and email address. This information is essential for contacting winners. MakeUseOf giveaways are accessible to a global audience.

A specific giveaway code, necessary for form activation, can be found on our official Facebook page and Twitter feed.

The promotional period has concluded. Congratulations to Karen Byrum, the lucky winner! Those selected have already been contacted by jackson@makeuseof.com. Please respond before November 25th to claim your prize; requests received after this date will not be considered.

Step 2: Promote and Participate

The final step involves sharing the giveaway post. Please note that sharing does not contribute to point accumulation.

Entry into this giveaway constitutes acceptance of the official giveaway rules.

This promotion commenced and will conclude on Friday, November 9th. Winners will be chosen randomly and notified through email correspondence.

Inform your network and enjoy the opportunity to win!