ThinkPad X230 vs Thinkpad X220

[rzl]

Hello!
When I had to change my laptop, I made a huge mistake: i bought a Sony Vaio S13 (late 2012, 3rd gen intel core i5 and yada yada).

Now i would like to sell it and get a ThinkPad.

I'm at home for holidays (I study computer engineering) and I'm using my old love: ThinkPad T42. I *love* it.

So the doubt is whether to get an x220 or an x230.

I just can't stand chicklet keyboard on the x230, although it would be faster and newer (i would buy that 2nd hand).

So my question is: since I won't probably be doing anything particular (my main concern is battery life, but I plan to get a 9-cell battery for that), which would be better?

Is x230 significantly faster? My main tools are gnu/linux and dev tools... gcc, javac, some web development, perl...


Thanks,
--
rzl

[Cigarguy]

X230 is not significantly faster, at most 10-15% on the CPU side. 99% of people will never know or need this. The 1% should be switching over to a desktop. The chiclet keyboard and the changed keyboard layout is no good for me. Power consumption is about the same. All things being equal a x220 should be cheaper.

[stuartf]

I have been having a similar debate for a family member that is in need of a compact machine, I think I have her convinced that an ultrabook will not suit her needs.The OP seems to have come to a similar conclusion with a SonyVaio disappointment.

She can live with the new keyboard and I see the presence of the built-inUSB 3 port an advantage,perhaps future proofing it is n some ways? The other factor is that I can buy a new x230 for little more than what used x220s are selling for, although there are exceptions. BTW, my cost on the new machine reflects certain discounts that I am entitled to. And of course the new one can come with an accidental damage warranty (additional cost) and given the reports here on screen problems and Lenovo's unwillingness to warranty these except with the accidental damage protection, the option seems prudent.

[Cigarguy]

If she doesn't mind the new keyboard layout and you're able to get a x230 with fresh warranty for little more than a x220, then your course of action is pretty straight forward.

[barrywohl]

For some people, the new keyboard is a deal breaker, but not for me.
I've used ThinkPads since 1995 including CX755 CD760 A21p R50p T61p W700 and X201T.
For me, the X230T keyboard is all gain, no pain.

The key feel is as good as before. Less dirt gets underneath. Typing in the dark with the back-lit keys is great. Having the "delete" key at the upper right is great.

You may need some of the special keys now moved to combinations, but not me. I love my X230T with Windows 8 Pro x64.