I'm looking at getting a new Thinkpad (I have a great 600X, but am looking to upgrade). I like the size and sturdiness of my thinkpad, how does this one hold up? I'm also potentially interested in the R400. But I'd like to keep the size smaller. Any thoughts?

I'd say if you value sturdiness the R400 is the way to go. They're almost the same notebook as the T400, just a bit thicker and heavier, but they're dirt cheap in the Outlet. The SL seems a bit more consumer oriented with the plastic glossy case. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but not a ThinkPad in the historical sense. Supposedly the screen on the SL300 is very bright if you like that sort of thing. I almost bought one for when I wanted more mobility than 15" R60 generally provides. They were selling them for $500 last month, but I couldn't pull the financing together before they yanked them from the site.

I'm using one right now. The Screen is VERY Bright. I have to turn it down, or it makes my hdtv look sad. =[

My only gripe is that it's very very prone to finger prints on the top, which isn't bad, but do make sure you do not lose the microfiber cloth they include.

Otherwise, I've not noticed anything wrong with the non synaptics touchpad, although my last laptop was a compaq, which was full of quality...

Good luck.
Pat