Thinkpads Forum

So i just bought a t61 and waiting for it to ship out. But what's the real difference between the t61 and the t400?

I can't seem to find a real answer?

Faster processor, faster FSB. Newer P series processors use only 25 watts opposed to 35 watts for the majority of other processors.
You get LED display rather than CCFL, much brighter and supposedly should improve battey life.

DDR3 memory on T400 vs DDR2 on T61.

Hybrid graphics

I think different worse keyboard as well.

flypenfly wrote:I think different worse keyboard as well.

Yes you're right, supposedly the base of the keyboard is thinner to save some weight. But I fear we may lose the excepcional good Thinkpad keyboard after Lenovo took over.

Expect my extensive T61 review soon!

agarza wrote:

flypenfly wrote:
Expect my extensive T61 review soon!

You mean T400?

Nop, I meant T61 It replaced my IBM T61. So it will be a review including what's good and what's bad comparing IBM vs Lenovo build quality. I think you can find a T400 in NotebookReview, the full version will be up in Monday.

so should i continue to let me t61 built, or should i cancel it and get a t400?

I think you bought a nice machine. Considering the price different and knowing from which machine you're upgrading from I think you don't miss so much depending on the specs on a new T400 machine.
It all comes down to personal preference, screen real state (you ordered a WXGA). In terms of build quality I think T400/T500 have a slightly less build quality than on the T61, with the keyboard being a little bit flimsly compared to the T61.

Depending on the price (on your newly ordered T61) and comparing it to the price on the T400 you should base your decision. If you decide to cancel your T61 order infavor of the T400 then get the LED LCD screen, no point in getting a T400 with CCFL which is the same LCD technology used in 'older' laptops, including T61s. And also consider the 25 watt processor which will help you increase battery life and overall machine low temperature.

Hope this help you narrow down your final decision.

the cost difference was big before. its now 150. est b/w a T61 14" that i just ordered and a T400 14" that i just ordered. You do get a little more with the T400.