Thinkpads Forum

How bad is the T500 1280 X 800 LCD? I've been spoiled the last few years using T60 SXGA IPS displays and I'm curious how the two compare. I realize that the T500 has other display options but this is the only one available to me. TIA.

I had the Samsung non-LED 1280x800 in my R500 which is also used in the T500. I heard people claiming it was the worst Thinkpad display ever. Apart from the LED models they share the same displays. The colours and brightness were decent, but I would say the pixel density was really bad for me. It looks a bit grainy and fuzzy. You get used to it, but immediately see the difference when compared to a high resolution display. I've read the LG display is supposed to be better, but people don't say in what way it's better.

sir_synthsalot nailed it. The Samsung panels, in either WXGA or WXSGA+ resolution, look a bit grainy and fuzzy.

The LG panels are actually excellent, bright and clear. Not Flexview IPS quality, but nice panels.

The issue is that it's hard to know what you're getting unless you're buying locally and can actually see the machine before you buy.

The up side is that you can replace the panel yourself if you wind up with one you do not like - for roughly another $100 (eBay price).

Notes: 15.4" is a fairly big display, I have found WSXGA+ to be an ideal resolution for that size panel. T500's can also support WUXGA panels.

It's funny that things like cell phones and tablet PCs are getting better (often IPS), higher resolution displays every year, but laptops seem to be moving backwards. Laptop displays are becoming lower resolution, worse quality (IPS is almost nonexistent now), and there are fewer upgrade options. I would love to find a WSXGA+ 14.1" display that would fit a modern Thinkpad, but as far as I can tell, no ones has ever made such an LCD.

T500's can also support WUXGA panels.

I have a new topic on this subject, can you tell me how I can swap a wuxga screen from a T61p over to my t500? (both 15.4").

After having my T60 for years, I got my T520. At first I hated the display. Much too washed out!. I finally worked with the monitor calibration a lot and finally got it to display respectable pictures/type. You might give that a try if you are having problems.