T420 screen resolution / dedicated graphics card? T5XX ?

[newmanm]

I bought a T420 but sent it back because I did not like the screen resolution. it was semi ok for regular use, but when I opened up a photo file the result was pretty bad.

the resolution I am used to is 1600 x 1200 on my T43P.

my question is, would the resolution be better with a dedicated graphics card? if I repurchased a T420 with the higher resolution panel, 1600 x 900, that might do the job.

or should I forget the T4XX series and move up to a T5XX with the highest resolution panel and a dedicated graphics card?

[dr_st]

Highest resolution available on T420 is 1600x900. On a T520/W520 it is 1920x1080.

The resolution depends entirely on the screen you choose; the graphics card has nothing to do with it. Both integrated and dedicated graphics solutions will support the high resolutions.

[crashnburn]

Highest resolution available on T420 is 1600x900. On a T520/W520 it is 1920x1080.

The resolution depends entirely on the screen you choose; the graphics card has nothing to do with it. Both integrated and dedicated graphics solutions will support the high resolutions.

How are the reports on the 14" T420 with 1600 x 900 resolution? Hows that LED/LCD panel?

[newmanm]

I like my T420s. it's definitely nice to have a faster computer. this model is much lighter and more ergonomic than my T43P. I have not tested the battery life, but it seems to be much much longer than my T43P when it was new. my batteries on the T43P are getting old-- the 6 cell one needs to be replaced, but I'll probably just recycle it and use the 9 cell.

it does not seem like I need a separate graphics card. I have played a couple of steam games and the speed seems fine to me. the resolution works. it's not as snappy as the T43P. I could adjust the contrast, but I think I'll just leave it where it is. I have also gotten used to the different size ratio.

I don't know if it's the LCD or WIN 7 color scheme, but I've gotten used to the difference in look. to my eye the screen has less contrast and is in some ways more pleasing to the eye and maybe less eye strain. my first impressions when I got the T420s were that the screen was kind of washed out looking compared to my T43P.

all in all, I am really happy with my purchase. I did not use the T420 very long, but I like the T420s a little bit better. this is a refurbished unit, so the cost was about the same.