x301 screen

[jacque.che]

I want to know if the screen on the x301 is good or not ... or comparable to the T60 (which I own) or the T400. I have read conflicting opinions on this and wondered if anyone had figured it out.

I also want to know if I can close the lid of the x301 while using an external screen and keyboard. I know that it is a cool machine but was wondering if that would harm it in any way.

I am also interested if anyone would know if I can do that for the T400.

thanks in advance.

[ssd_thinkpad]

It is not possible to start a closed x301. You have to open the x301 and press the button to start your system. So as a desktop replacement, this is a downside. For me the viewing angles were not so good if you have a 4:3 screen viewing angles are not so important, however with widescreen it is another thing. I saw a T400 next to a x301 and found its display superior to the x301. The XGA displays from both T40 and T60 looked superior to the x301, too. Keep in mind, that with high brightness most screens look good, even the x301! But turning down brightness is not only good for your battery, it is also good for your eyes. If you do not worry to let your x301 run on full brightness, you will have a good viewing experience on the x301.

[jacque.che]

but once you have started the x301 or T400 ... can you then close the lid ... I know that I would have to configure the OS not to react to that ... but I am wondering if running the computer with the lid down might generate a heat problem and in some way harm the screen

[Nubulin]

The X301 text size is a bit on the small size for a lot of people. Compareable to the T60 SXGA+, but a lot brighter and whiter. I HATE widescreens though and you end up with a smaller screen in a bigger laptop. All personal preference though. As a desktop replacement it is a poor choice. It's twice the price of the T400, has integrated graphics only, limited hard drive options and slow ULV processor. Further, its a even worse replacement for the T60 since it is the same width, and only slightly thinner. I decided to keep the T60p and get an X61s for the road. X301 going on eBay. As an only computer that travels well, the X301 would be nice, but a compromise overall in size/performance.

[beaker]

Nubulin-- I'm sorry that you had to sell your X301, but your sig REALLY made my day

[ssd_thinkpad]

Nubulin, could not agree more about the screen. My eyes also had trouble with its screen. And this x301 screen is known as to be improved to the x300 screen! It was dead slow for me due to its inferior mlc ssd - competing to a few years old 1 gb ram slc ssd desktop computer - even if the x301 had 4 gb ram. However I did like its lightweight and that it was big (it is regarding its screen) does not concern me at all. The battery life and its build quality were outstanding. If you could only just put a better screen inside and maybe I could life with its widescreen format.

[ThinkP]

so is the Screen that bad on the x301 ? does everyone who have x301's see a problem with the screen?

I remember the x300 biggest complaint was the screen and they supposedly fixed it in x301

I'm seriously considering getting the next version of the x301 for portability and I hope these things are sorted by then...even an optional faster processor like what is currently in the x200 would be a great option...even if it means taking a hit in battery life...

more choices for the x301 processor similar to what lenovo is offering with the x200 vs the x200s.

[Nubulin]

EDIT: I sent mine in and they replaced the screen. It is a LOT better now, so I think my prior negative opinions were a bit skewed due to the defective screen. Still, I still think Lenovo screens are middle of the road at best and I HATE widescreens!

I actually bought an X61s while the X301 was in for service and I really like that size a lot better, so I am going to sell the X301.

[sanjuro]

If Lenovo were smart, they would improve the quality of LCD on future X302 or X310. A higher quality display like a 14" PVA would be a winner (since flexview is sadly out of the question). There is clearly enough room in the X300 or X301 bezel to squeeze in a 14" display.

[jacque.che]

would anyone have screenshots of the x301 beside say a T60 or T61

or know where I could find some ... I have looked but without luck

thanks

[ssd_thinkpad]

Search within the picture forum on thinkpads.com for "x301". You will find one thread where the x301 is on top of the t60. Its nearly as wide as the t60 as it has widescreen. Not that big difference for footprint. The x301 is incredibly lightweight which you do not see on photos.

[jacque.che]

thanks... i was hoping to see the screens to be able to see the difference ... the x301 is said to be bright and i wanted to see for myself ... those who have one: is it like a Mac Pro screen?