So much choice, so many models .... what is a guy to do?

[ukcelt]

Bearing in mind that I live in the UK so we may get a different choice (?):

I am in the market for a laptop and was SO impressed with IBM build quality when I once borrowed a mates for a few weeks that I have decided to buy one online. The 'R' series seems to be the way to go for me but I'm a little confused about which model as there are SO many.

I don't want to spend £500 and then find that if I had spent £540 (for example) I would have got a much better spec model, you know the feeling?

Are there logical power steps in the 'R' series or a particular point where the series gets a better drive bay, processor, graphics, memory speed, screen etc?

The many comments I have read on here convince me that IBM is the right way to go .......... but ............. I could really do with some advice before I part with my cash.

To give you an idea of the models over here (in UK) visit our local IBM site here.

Any help, warnings or comments welcome.

Cheers !!

[ariadgr]

After researching this issue for many years, I can tell you the following:

First, you must be able to tell for which use you want the computer.

(i.e. Video editing or Word processing? )

From this you can tell what processor, graphics card, hard disk, and screen type you will need.

You must decide the following before searching for a suitable system:

1) What screen size are you interested in (14 or 15 inches)?
2) What minimum screen resolution are you interested in
(1024x768, 1400x1050...)
3) What processor are you interested in (Centrino, Celeron...)
4) Graphics card (Onboard intel or ATI with dedicated memory)
5) Hard disk drive size and speed (RPM)

If you give us a clue on the use you will do, we will be able to give more info, and even find some suitable models for you.

[ukcelt]

Thanks ariadgr:

Here we go then.

Primary use would be composing web pages, word processing and editing pictures/photographs with Paint Shop Pro. A little desk top publishing and Internet/email use. Games are not an issue and neither is video editing.

I would like to be able to play just the occasional DVD and music.

Anwers to 1 to 5:

1) 15 inch would be preferable but not crucial. Certainly no less than 14.
2) Minimum screen res would be 1024X768. (Widescreen maybe, not vital but if it's a good quality screen it would be cool. Good for DVD's.
3) Centrino or AMD equiv ..... certainly not Celeron.
4) ATI dedicated would be ideal.
5) Don't need a lot. The one I have now is 40GB and that is never more than 1/3 full. Would rather have better graphics than a huge drive. A mid-speed would be good. Small and quick rather than big and slow.

Other likes and dislikes:

a) At least 2 usb sockets. Would like more but the Thinkpad does not seem to offer many?
b) CD burner/DVD ROM combie drive.
c) Wireless (not vital but it may be required later).
d) 512mb DDR RAM (upgradable)
e) Headphone/headset socket.

Absolute MUST's in my wish list, and I am hoping the Thinkpad can satisfy these, are: Good display and great keyboard. I will be doing lots of typing and need a screen that leaves me with eyes

Ideas?

[ariadgr]

The sites you will search at are:

R series models
R series other models
T series models
T series other models

It seems that R series would be cheaper.
Because the models are many, you must decide on the screen size, screen resolution.

In order to help, if you get a 14" model, 1024x768 is fine. But for a 15" model, I would definitely recommend 1400x1050.

If you would not move the thinkpad a lot, consider the 15", because you will work better.

You didn't mention the budget you will have.

From the express selectio, the only one that has 15" with 1400x1050 is the UN34CUK, which happens for me to own, and would definitely recommend. Its price is £970 including VAT, and you could add a 3-year warranty extension.

[ukcelt]

Hi ariadgr,

I am just about convinced I think, the UN34CUK sounds perfect. I think I will go for the 15'' screen.

Tell me, has this model got the finger-print security thing on it?

Thanks for all your help by the way.

Cheers

[ariadgr]

Tell me, has this model got the finger-print security thing on it?

No fingerprint reader. But do you really need it?

[ukcelt]

Nope, don't need it at all. I only wondered as it it mentioned in a lot of reviews etc (as being on the R series) and yet I could never see any on any pictures.

Flexible reviews