T42p (2373-KXU) First Impressions

[kjarrett]

Ok, I have not even fully set up my new T42p yet, but wanted to share some initial thoughts.

First, like many readers here, I debated the 15" 1600x1200 UXGA vs. 14" 1400x1050 SXGA+ issue for a long time. At the end of the day, I decided I wanted the biggest, baddest ThinkPad available and I'm glad I did. The system is, to me, *BARELY* larger than my T21, but most importantly, it is for a reason - the screen is effin' HUGE! If a big screen matters to you, get the 15" - period.

That being said, the text (even at 120% font size) *IS* smaller than I would like. I'm coming from 1024x768 on my T30. It's going to take a little getting used to, but since this machine can now easily handle anything I throw at it in terms of high-rez color pictures (image editing), the larger size will be great. I love having the screen real estate, the tradeoff is font size. Guess I need better glasses (I'm 42!)

The build quality on this thing is *AMAZING*. After reading all the horror stories about loose batteries, flexy keyboards, and bad pixels, I was seriously doubting whether or not I should buy. I know I could return it if I wanted to, but, who needs the hassle? I am once again impressed with IBM quality and when I buy another laptop in 4-5 years it will be an IBM.

Similarly, I am very impressed with the software installed. I am a *MINIMALIST* in every way and prefer NOTHING in my tray unless it needs to be there. Access Connections looks cool (though I messed up the profile setup and couldn't get back on until I deleted it - D'OH), the other utilities are well thought out, I'm just very happy. I'm even using the Message Center (or will for a while) to see how that works out. I particularly like that IBM has chose Norton AV 2004 and none of the other extraneous stuff. NAV rocks, nothing else is better in my view.

The design of the T42p is great. I love the one-handed latch, the keyboard, the ThinkLight, the Ultrabay Slim.

I'm just really really happy, and I know some others here aren't for lots of reasons, no slight intended guys.

More impressions and detailed pics to follow later this weekend.

Best, kj

[rocketman]

Sounds great, the high resolution is the only reason I decided to go with the T42 with the 1400x1050 resolution. I had an A20p with this resolution and even that seems a little small to me but I can deal with it, 1600x1200 even though I'm sure it looks amazing is just too small for my eyes.
That must be one fast Thinkpad, enjoy it!