Thinkpad Edge E535 A4-4300 - models NZREBUK & NZR6QUK

[Peabodskrim]

I am puzzled by the difference in prices in online "offers" between these two models as I can see very little difference in their detailed specifications. The NZR6QUK is both scarcer and much more expensive than the other. All I need (to replace my faithful Lenovo 3000 N200) is a thoroughly reliable laptop with Windows 7 Pro Operating System, requiring no further complicated operations to set it up, and NZR6QUK seems to offer just that.

So in particular, I need to know which operating system is initially pre-installed on the cheaper NZREBUK? Is it the Windows 8 Pro? What if any operations would be required to activate the Windows 7 Pro "Downgrade"? What problems am I likely to encounter in doing so? also, if the Recovery DVD is only for Windows 8 Pro, what is the procedure for recovery of Windows 7 Pro? Again (though less important) are any Windows 7 Office Suites preloaded?

I get the impression from the scarcity and price of the more expensive model NZR6QUK that it is in some way preferable and more reliable ... but this may not be the case. I'd be very grateful for advice. If this is the wrong forum to ask such an amateur question, please let me know! )

[ZaZ]

According to the specs here, NZREBUK comes with Windows 7 and a Windows 8 recovery disc if you want to install Windows 8 would be my take on it, though I have not seen it personally.

You can probably make the recovery discs right from the notebook. Lenovo includes a utility for doing so.

I would guess you're going to get either the trial of Office or Office Starter, which is a gimped version of Office.

[Peabodskrim]

thank you! but in that case, whyever should the older NZR6QUK be so much more expensive at all the online outlets I've found that still stock both? Some customers must have good reason for wanting it, as their spec is otherwise seemingly identical?

[ZaZ]

It is not unusual for similar ThinkPads to have very different pricing dating back to the IBM days. I would buy the least expensive and not give it too much thought.

[Peabodskrim]

than you again for that explanation! ... ... trouble is, living offshore on a small Scottish island as I do, and having no technical skills, reliability and lack of hassles is at least as important as initial purchase cost.