Time for a new ThinkPad - can't decide

[zv45beta]

Hi,

Just when I started to love my T430, I've ran into a display issue not worth the repair, which ended up with me getting my money back (bought it from a refurbished computer dealer).

So, the T430 is dead, and I need a "new" ThinkPad.
I'm on a tight budget (around 450 pounds)

My requirements are:
- good battery life (at least 4 hours of light usage w/ medium brightness)
- a model that is available with an HD+ or better display, IPS would be great
- a model that isn't trying to be a space heater (like my T430 w/ NVS 5400M :/ )
- a 2nd SODIMM slot


Not planning to do gaming, only productive stuff (Photoshop, Office, web browsing and some light coding)

I've been looking at the X1 Carbon 2012 and the T440s which have caught my eye the most.

Any recommendation would be appreciated.

Thanks

[Thinkpad4by3]

Hi,

Just when I started to love my T430, I've ran into a display issue not worth the repair, which ended up with me getting my money back (bought it from a refurbished computer dealer).

So, the T430 is dead, and I need a "new" ThinkPad.
I'm on a tight budget (around 450 pounds)

My requirements are:
- good battery life (at least 4 hours of light usage w/ medium brightness)
- a model that is available with an HD+ or better display, IPS would be great
- a model that isn't trying to be a space heater (like my T430 w/ NVS 5400M :/ )
- a 2nd SODIMM slot


Not planning to do gaming, only productive stuff (Photoshop, Office, web browsing and some light coding)

I've been looking at the X1 Carbon 2012 and the T440s which have caught my eye the most.

Any recommendation would be appreciated.

Thanks

Ok. Firstly, the X1 carbon is bye bye because it has 4/8GB non-upgradable. The T440s will need to have its trackpad replaced and I've done it on my X240 and its more intensive than replacing the motherboard to I wouldn't do it. I would recommend looking on the outlets for a T450/T460s for around your 450 pound (600USD) range. Plenty come up every couple weeks. Find a good one with good specs and be on your merry way.

[ZaZ]

I think I reviewed the 1st Gen X1 Carbon. The screen is nice, think MacBook Air quality wise, but not IPS. The FHD screen on the T440s will be better, but then you've got the stick button issue. I don't think it's that hard to do if you've got the time and inclination. The T450s solves that problem, but is likely more expensive.

[BigT0ny]

I would suggest a T440P, they have 2 DIMM slots, 1080P displays, good cooling and the choice of a 9 cell battery! The touchpad swap that Thinkpad4by3 mentioned is also a lot easier, you just have to remove the palmrest/keyboard assembly to change it IIRC. I've seen them go for £200GBP (around $260USD)...a new screen (if needed), touchpad and anything extra should come within your budget, although I'm not sure what the prices are like where you live.

[agarza]

I would suggest a T440P, they have 2 DIMM slots, 1080P displays, good cooling and the choice of a 9 cell battery! The touchpad swap that Thinkpad4by3 mentioned is also a lot easier, you just have to remove the palmrest/keyboard assembly to change it IIRC. I've seen them go for £200GBP (around $260USD)...a new screen (if needed), touchpad and anything extra should come within your budget, although I'm not sure what the prices are like where you live.

Another vote for the T440p, the processors are much fast compared to the ultra low voltage used on the T440/T450/T460. Note that using a T450 and upgrading the screen to non-Lenovo FRU would result on brightness not working on Windows, T440 and T460 upwards do not have this kind of problem.