Thinkpads Forum

I have been trying to read all I can comparing the standard screen vs. the "Premium" one. Both have same resolution. Lenovo doesn't directly advertise their "Premium" as IPS, but other reading indicates it is, albeit a cheaper form of IPS than some really high end options in other models. 1366x768 is disappointing (would prefer 900px veritcal) either way: so is the "premium" really that much of an improvement.

From what I read, the $50 for "Premium" is a decent viewing upgrade, but my main concern is if this "Premium" sucks more battery? I will likely use an external monitor for most work, but do travel for work (maybe 10% away at client sites).

Thanks for any advice.

IMO it's worth it, although it is likely to consume somewhat more battery.

My X220i and the X230 review unit I had, both of which had the IPS, got about six hours with the six-cell. You can probably legitimately get 9-10 hours with the nine-cell. I'd say that's probably more than enough for most users and the IPS at $50 is a no-brainer if you ask me.

dr_st wrote:IMO it's worth it, although it is likely to consume somewhat more battery.

Thanks for the input so far.

I'll need to consume my use-case. I will of course be getting the 9-cell battery. I think we all know that batteries do degrade (my travels will be to very hot climates: ambient temps 110+ regularly w/o cooling) so run-time is all important. After a year of use will I still be able to get 8 hours, for example? Will I care about a "nice screen" or "an extra 2 hours of runtime" most.

If the IPS uses 5 watts more, I may want to pass. If 1-2 watts, then for the extra quality I would go for it. Hmm. Real data on consumption is so hard to come by!