Purism is well-known for its privacy and security focused hardware and software while utilizing open-source technologies. Not to forget the latest Purism Librem Mini.
After a good success with Librem 15 and 13 series laptops, Purism has unveiled Librem 14.
Librem 14 looks like a perfect laptop for an open-source enthusiast who’s concerned about the security and privacy of a laptop.
In this article, we will talk about Librem 14 specifications, pricing, and its availability.
Librem 14: Overview
Similar to other variants in the series, Librem 14 offers all the essential security features like the hardware kill switch to disable webcam/microphone and its secure PureBoot boot firmware.
Librem series is one of the rare few laptops that come preloaded with Linux. Purism uses its own custom distribution called PureOS. If you’re curious, you can also browse the source code for it.
As a key highlight of Librem 14 laptop, here’s what Purism mentions:
The most distinctive feature of the Librem 14 is the new 14? 1080p IPS matte display which, due to the smaller bezel, fits within the same footprint as the Librem 13.
Even though that’s not something mind-blowing, it is good to see that they’ve made the laptop fit within the same footprint as its predecessor.
It’s a great decision targeted for users who do not want a lot of changes with their laptop upgrade or may appreciate a compact dimension of the laptop.
Librem 14: Specifications
Along with the key highlight, Purism’s Librem 14 offers an impressive set of specifications. Here’s what you get:
- Intel Core i7-10710U (Comet Lake)
- 14? Matte (1920×1080) Display
- Intel UHD Graphics
- RAM Up to 32GB, DDR4 at 2133 MHz
- 2 SATA + NVMe-capable M.2 slots
- 1 HDMI Port (4K capable @60Hz max)
- USB Type-C Video Out (4K capable)
- 3.5mm AudioJack
- Gigabit Ethernet Adapter with Integrated RJ45 Connector
- Atheros 802.11n w/ Two Antennas
- USB-C Power Delivery Port
- Weight: 1.4 kg
It’s slightly disappointing to see Intel chipsets in 2020 — but considering the presence of PureBoot and other features that Librem 14 offers, an Intel-powered secure laptop makes sense.
Nevertheless, it’s good to see them including USB Type-C video port. Without dedicated graphics, it may not be a steal deal for power users but it should get a lot of work done.
Also, it’s worth noting that Purism offers anti-interdiction services to detect tampering during shipments for high-risk customers. Of course, that wouldn’t prevent tampering — but it’ll help you know about it.
Librem 14: Pricing & Availability
For now, Librem 14 laptop is available for pre-orders with an early big base price of $1199 ($300 off from its regular price) that features 8 Gigs of RAM and 250 GB of M.2 SATA storage.
Depending on what you prefer, the price might go up to $3,693.00 with the maxed out configuration with anti-interdiction services included.
You can expect the orders to start shipping in the early Q4 2020.
What do you think about Purism’s Librem 14 laptop? Feel free to let me know your thoughts in the comments.
