I've had that preference (strong preference) for as long as I can remember. It has recently changed, as I've discovered the convenience of scripting the UI and tiling my windows.
Now I'm using the NumLock as a "dead key", that triggers a script or a layout change if followed by one of the num-pad numbers. It is a life-changing hack, I have to tell you.
> 5. Absolutely no coil whine. My Dell XPS 9560 had this since day 1, while my work MacBook Pro and Lenovo P1 developed it over time.
In a similar vein - I don’t know what you call it, but the sensation you get when you run your finger over the case of a charging MacBook is just so gross.
2. S3 suspend or at least a good S0ix implementation.
3. Good support for replacing UEFI Secure Boot keys.
4. No numpad so that the keyboard is centered.
5. Absolutely no coil whine. My Dell XPS 9560 had this since day 1, while my work MacBook Pro and Lenovo P1 developed it over time.
6. Biggest battery possible. I don't care about charging time or weight.
7. Good Linux support (including firmware updates via LVFS).