Is the SL410 a real ThinkPad?

[JoelOFH]

Hello,

I'm in the market for a no-nonsense laptop. I'll use the computer for the internet, college schoolwork, and coding (C++, C, Java). It looks as if my local BestBuy has a ThinkPad SL410* that seems to fit the bill. The question is: Is this laptop any better than any run-of-the-mill laptop? I've heard people say the SL-series is a nice addition to the ThinkPad line and some others say the SL-series is a disgrace.

Would I be doing myself a favor purchasing this ThinkPad or should I look into other brands (assuming I can't afford any other ThinkPad line)?

ANY thoughts are highly appreciated. Thank you!

* Model: SL410-2842F

[JoelOFH]

Hmm... not I'm also thinking about the "ThinkPad X Series X200(745432U)".

I wont be traveling much, so the weight isn't a huge issue. Is the X200 a better laptop in general?

I'm confused.

[rkawakami]

Welcome to thinkpads.com!

Some would say that the last real ThinkPad was made by IBM before the line was handed over to Lenovo . I don't have any personal experience with either of the two systems you have mentioned; the closest one being an SL500 which my daughter has been using for the last couple of months. That system performs quite well, even though it has Vista on it . The fan does have a tendency to run most of the time but then again, she plays WoW on it.

You may want to read through last year's PC Magazine survey on notebook reliability and service:

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2352798,00.asp