Thinkpads Forum

I'm in the market for a T400s or T410s. There is no question: the T410s is a worthwhile improvement, being a new Intel platform and all, but as I'm writing this on my T30 I'm wondering. That machine was more or less end-of-line when I bought it and it's lasted 6 1/2 years and counting (with minor repairs), longer than any other machine I've owned. I like fully debugged, mature technology I have to say. Disregarding price and availability, would you consider it a no-brainer to go with the T410s or might there actually be an advantage in getting a T400s in terms of stability and longevity of the machine?

Whatever advantage T410s or T400s might have over one another in longetivity/durability/reliability, it won't become obvious until both machines have been out for a couple of years... That's the problem with buying "latest and greatest" - you never know if there are hidden flaws. Then again, you are given the option to buy a 5-year warranty with the machines, which should keep you covered for a very long time.

I don't really consider the T410 series computers to be entirely new, but rather incremental updates to the T400 series which has been around long enough to know that it's not a dud. Sure, long-term problems can show up, but since most laptops have a production lifespan of no more than 2 years, that's the case with any model. As noted, if you like the assurance of a warranty, buy the 5 year one and sit tight. If you intend to keep the machine another 6+ years, I really think you should get the T410. The Core2Duo processors are already 3.5 years old. By the time you were done with it, they'll be nearly a decade old.