Besides, at least in Linux, lots of kernel options can tweak Intel/AMD CPUs to make them mostly silent.

The problem is that manufacturers don't put much thought into building good cooling systems.

Lenovo, for instance, has so many SKUs that it's really random. A few are great, but some sound like a hairdyer or rev up too aggressively.

Apple gets this. By having a small product line, they usually polish all those details.