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Kubuntu Focus introduced the Ir14 GEN 2 and Ir16 GEN 2 on June 6, 2024, as Linux laptops shipping with Kubuntu 24.04 LTS and the Kubuntu Focus Suite (KFS). Both use an Intel Core i5-13500H and integrated Iris Xe graphics; the main choice is between the Ir14’s compact size and the Ir16’s larger, sharper, faster-refresh display and bigger battery. Their launch prices were $1,080 and $1,145, respectively, but those are historical prices: the official product pages are currently marked sold out.
How the Ir14 GEN 2 and Ir16 GEN 2 compare
The two models share the same processor class and integrated graphics platform. The Ir16 adds a higher-resolution 90 Hz panel and an 80 Wh battery; the Ir14 is the smaller 14-inch option.
| Specification | Ir14 GEN 2 | Ir16 GEN 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 14.0-inch IPS, 1920 × 1200, 16:10, 100% sRGB, 350 nits. Kubuntu Focus specifications | 16.0-inch IPS, 2560 × 1600, 16:10, 100% sRGB, 450 nits, 90 Hz. Kubuntu Focus specifications |
| Processor | Intel Core i5-13500H, 12 cores and 16 threads. Kubuntu Focus specifications | Intel Core i5-13500H, 12 cores and 16 threads. Kubuntu Focus specifications |
| Graphics | Integrated Intel Iris Xe, 80 execution units, up to 1.45 GHz. Kubuntu Focus specifications | Integrated Intel Iris Xe, 80 execution units, up to 1.45 GHz. Kubuntu Focus specifications |
| Memory | Up to 96 GB dual-channel DDR5. Kubuntu Focus specifications | Up to 96 GB dual-channel DDR5-4800/5200. Kubuntu Focus specifications |
| Storage | Up to two NVMe drives; configurations up to 8 TB. Kubuntu Focus specifications | Two PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 2280 NVMe slots; configurations up to 8 TB. Kubuntu Focus specifications |
| Chassis | Aluminum-alloy external surfaces. Kubuntu Focus specifications | Magnesium-alloy external surfaces. Kubuntu Focus specifications |
| Battery claims | 6.0 hours real-world use, per the manufacturer’s specification page; test methodology is not stated. Kubuntu Focus specifications | 80 Wh; manufacturer claims 7.5 hours of continuous video playback and 6 hours of typical use. Test methodology is not stated. Kubuntu Focus specifications |
| Weight | Not stated here; consult the official specification for the configured unit. Kubuntu Focus specifications | 3.3 lb (1.5 kg) with battery. Kubuntu Focus specifications |
| Launch starting price | $1,080, announced June 6, 2024; not a current quote. Kubuntu Focus launch announcement | $1,145, announced June 6, 2024; not a current quote. Kubuntu Focus launch announcement |
The launch announcement described the laptops as shipping with Kubuntu 24.04 LTS and KFS. Kubuntu Focus says the Iridium line was developed with Carbon Systems, pairing preinstalled Linux and hardware-specific tuning with validated updates and Linux-focused support. See the launch announcement and product information.
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Choose the Ir14 for portability
The Ir14’s 14-inch 1920 × 1200 panel keeps the useful 16:10 aspect ratio in a smaller footprint. It is the more natural fit if you regularly carry your laptop or work in spaces where a 16-inch machine is awkward. Its 350-nit, 100% sRGB IPS display is specified for general work and color-conscious tasks, though the figures are manufacturer specifications rather than independent measurements.
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- Intel Core i5-1335U Processor (12M Cache, 12 Threads, up to 4.6 GHz) - 256GB Solid State Drive - 16GB DDR4 SDRAM
- 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) Non-Touch Anti-Glare Display - Intel UHD 620 Integrated Graphics - Stereo Speakers
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Choose the Ir16 for more screen space
The Ir16’s 16-inch, 2560 × 1600, 90 Hz display offers more room for side-by-side code, documents, and spreadsheets. It also has a numeric keypad and the larger battery. The 450-nit and 100% sRGB figures are manufacturer specifications. At 3.3 lb (1.5 kg), it remains portable, but it is less compact than the Ir14.
Set graphics expectations
Both models rely on integrated Iris Xe graphics, not a discrete GPU. Kubuntu Focus says the iGPU can handle desktop work and some mid-level games; it recommends a discrete-GPU system or an eGPU for demanding games, serious visualization, machine learning, or video editing. That is the vendor’s positioning, not an independent benchmark or guarantee of performance in a particular application.
Rank #2
- Intel Core i5-10210U (up to 4.2GHz) - 1TB PCIe NVMe + 1TB HDD - 32GB DDR4 SDRAM
- 17.3" HD+ (1600x900) Display, Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Built in HD 720p Webcam with Microphone - Bluetooth Version4.2
- I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.1 (Data Only), 1x USB 2.0, 1x HDMI, 1x Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack
- Linux Mint Cinnamon 64-Bit - 6-Row Keyboard w/ Full Numberpad
Battery life: read the numbers as manufacturer claims
Kubuntu Focus lists 6.0 hours of real-world use for the Ir14. For the Ir16, it lists 7.5 hours of continuous video playback and 6 hours of typical use, alongside an 80 Wh battery. The company does not state a test methodology in the cited specifications, and no independent battery test is established here. Actual runtime will depend on workload, brightness, wireless use, and power settings.
Ports, external displays, and charging
The Ir16 specification lists Thunderbolt 4/USB-C with up to 40 Gbit/s, a second USB-C port, HDMI 2.1, two USB-A ports, an SD card reader, audio, a Kensington lock slot, and DC input. Kubuntu Focus says the Ir16 can drive two external 4K displays. Its specification also describes optional 100 W USB-C charging and warns that lower-power USB-C chargers can reduce performance. Confirm that a charger supports the required USB Power Delivery profile if you plan to use USB-C charging.
Rank #3
- [ULTRA-RUGGED DESIGN] MIL-STD-810G and IP65 certified. Built to survive 6-foot drops, heavy rain, and extreme vibrations. Features a magnesium alloy chassis with an integrated carry handle for maximum portability
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- [1200-NIT SUNLIGHT READABLE] 13.1" XGA Touchscreen with CircuLumin technology. At 1200 nits, it is nearly 4x brighter than a standard laptop, ensuring perfect visibility under direct, intense sunlight
- [LINUX UBUNTU PRE-INSTALLED] Fast, secure, and bloatware-free. Optimized for developers, network engineers, and diagnostic software that thrives in a stable, open-source environment
- [LEGACY SERIAL PORT] Features a native RS-232 Serial Port, HDMI, and USB 3.0. Essential for connecting directly to industrial machinery, CNCs, and automotive diagnostic tools without unreliable adapter
The launch configuration and Ir14 product page describe Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3. Check the relevant official specification for the precise configuration and regional availability.
RAM and SSD upgrades
Both laptops support up to 96 GB of dual-channel DDR5 memory and up to two NVMe drives, with configurations listed up to 8 TB. Kubuntu Focus’s service guide documents two DDR5 slots and user access to the disk, RAM, Wi-Fi, battery, and fans. The Ir16 specification identifies its two storage slots as PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 2280.
Rank #4
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- TRUE-TO-LIFE VISUALS – The 15.6” FHD IPS display is anti-glare with 300 nits brightness to see your best outside or in. Its 88% screen-to-body ratio makes viewing detailed applications like spreadsheets a breeze.
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- BUILT TO WITHSTAND – Built for military-grade toughness, the V15 Gen 4 is tested to withstand harsh temperatures, pressure, humidity, vibrations and more. Keep your work safe from the board room to your living room and everywhere in between.
- For memory, match DDR5 SODIMM requirements and supported speed/capacity to the laptop’s specification.
- For storage, choose M.2 2280 NVMe drives; the Ir16 specification explicitly lists PCIe 4.0 x4 slots.
- Follow the Kubuntu Focus service guide before opening the laptop. The guide warns that improper internal changes can affect warranty, usability, or function.
Price and availability
Kubuntu Focus announced starting prices of $1,080 for the Ir14 GEN 2 and $1,145 for the Ir16 GEN 2 on June 6, 2024. These are launch prices, not current offers. The official Ir14 GEN 2 page and Ir16 GEN 2 page are marked sold out, so current stock, configuration pricing, and regional shipping should be confirmed directly with the vendor before making a purchase decision.
Quick Recap
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
