Thinkpads Forum

Like others I am new here and considering a first-time laptop purchase.
I came across the G560 (i3-330M processor, Windows 7 64 bit, 4 GB DDR3 SDRAM 1066 MHz, 15.6” WXGA LED Backlit 1356x768, 320 Gb HD, 6 cell Lithium-ion) at a good price (lists for $849) but there are not many options available for this machine. I’d like to get Bluetooth enabled mouse and headset, but apparently not an option for this machine.
The alternate I am considering is a T510 series machine, (i5-520M processor, Windows 7 32 bit, 2 GB DDR3 SDRAM 1067 MHz) but this is costlier (List is $490 more than the G560, although better discounts available) – but many more options available on this machine. I am not quite sure what “discrete graphics” over “Integrated graphics” means ? – only that it costs a little more. Also, for $0.00 extra I can upgrade to Windows 64 bit; why isn’t this included in the base option?
Anything I am missing or need to additional know about when comparing these machines?
Thanks everyone for your help!

These machines are entirely different categories. You cannot compare them. Hardware specs don't matter, since in that sense, 99% of the laptops are within the same categories. The differences lie in features, workmanship, durability and long-term value.

Thank you.
The G560 is part of the "essential" line and I admit I am not at all familar with this line-up. My previous laptop experience was with the IBM thinkpads and I know I liked the look and "feel" of the keyboard (I am a pounder) and reliability for mobile business apps. I agree that while machines appear to share much of the same hardware specs I am learning that the "essential" line has cut some corners. I can add that I would prefer to purchase once and then keep it for a long time, so I am looking for something that will be supported (and if necessary, upgradable) for many years, so hopefully the product is still on the "upslope" side of it's product lifecycle. I'd rather spend the money now and avoid regrets later.

I suppose that the G560 has a glossy display, which is not such a good idea. Lamps, windows and other light sources are reflected by a glossy display in a disturbing way. A matte display, like the T510 has, is better.

Discrete graphics are more powerful than integrated graphics. Discrete graphics also use more power and therefore require a larger and heavier power adapter. If you want to use the notebook for gaming, you should get discrete graphics. For internet browsing, e-mail and everyday office applications, integrated graphics do an excellent job and you get a small and light power adapter.

Many models are offered with 32-bit Windows because there are a few rare applications that still require a 32-bit operating system. However, i would still recommend 64-bit Windows. More and more applications will be offered in 64-bit versions, Microsoft Office 2010 is one of them. A 64-bit application running on a 64-bit operating system should perform faster than a 32-bit application running on a 32-bit OS.

The G560 is offered with Windows 7 Home Premium. Microsoft have committed themselves to support Windows 7 Home Premium with security updates for five years, starting October 2009. They have committed themselves to support Windows 7 Professional for ten years with security updates. So if you plan to use your notebook for longer than five years and don't want to pay for and install a new Windows version along the way, i suggest that you get a notebook with Windows 7 Professional.

Beyond a shadow of a doubt I highly endorse the ThinkPad. Especially when it comes to very long life. The initial premium one pays at time of purchase, ends up years later to be the least expensive as it continues to serve you well. Far and away the superior machine in every area you will not be disappointed. I have used one as my main laptop of choice for well over a decade, and cannot imagine using anything else as my mission critical main computer. Believe me, I've tried and continue to try the others just for the fun of comparison & because I'm a die hard laptop user. Thus I can fully appreciate the advantages that ThinkPads offer.