Which to get? T61 14.1 in vs. T61p

[Technophile]

Which model should I get? I know that the T61p has a nicer graphics card and a higher resolution monitor, but I've the 14.1 in is a few hundred $'s cheaper and is noticeably lighter. Can't I just by the video card seperate? This is my first thinkpad so extra advice is welcome. Thanks.

[ajkula66]

Welcome to the forum!

You can't get a video card separately since it's soldered to the motherboard.

An average user doesn't need a discreet GPU these days, unless you're planning on doing heavy gaming and running severe video application.

Also, battery life suffers with a discreet GPU, and the machine runs hotter.

If you tell us a bit more about your needs and usage patterns, I'm sure that other members here could guide you in the right direction...this was just my $0.02...

[ZaZ]

If you want to go even cheaper the 14" R61 is nearly the same as the 14" T61, just slightly heavier and thicker.

I'd agree on the GPU, I'd only get it if you need it.