is this cheap X30 still worth buying for my parents' use?

[supernova87a]

Hi all,

I read this board often, but until now have never had an occasion to ask your advice -- hope you can offer me your opinions!

I've got an X40 of my own, and I really like it. Now I've been looking for a laptop for my parents to use at home, just simple web browsing, email, occasional powerpoint/excel work.

I have the opportunity to buy a used good condition X30 from someone locally. I've negotiated him down to $450 for the following configuration:

-------------------------------------
Product: ThinkPad X30 2672-4BU [change]

Original description: PIII-M 1.2GHz (512KB), 256MB RAM, 40.0GB HDD, 12.1 XGA(1024x768) TFT LCD, 802.11b Wireless/Modem(MPCI), Ethernet(LOM), Secure Chip(TCPA), Li-Ion battery, WinXP Pro

Type: Model: Serial number:
2672 4BU 99MGP18
Status: Expiration date: Location:
In warranty 2006-05-06 UNITED STATES
-----------------------------

I was hoping for something like an X31 or newer, that's why I only offered him $450, but now the deal is tempting.

Is this worth it? Since it's not for myself, do you think this model will still suit my parents ok? I know the graphics card isn't spectacular, but I feel like it should serve them well. Also, what physical differences would I notice between the X30 and my X40?

Have I gotten a deal here? hope for your reassurances... thanks a lot!

[Pennstate]

Hell yeah, I would jump on it. If the deal falls through, I'll buy it. I am also in Baltimore.

THe PLUSES are:

Still in warranty
You can buy a new X30 battery that will work in X31/X32 machines in case you upgrade. Built in wireless.

Minuses:

1.2Ghz P3-mobile gets pretty hot
X30's integrated graphics is worse than the X22/23/24 series, which is a ATI radeon mobility chip

[bhtooefr]

Hmm...

Is there an UltraBase X3 in the mix?

If not, I'm not sure about that price - it'll be $200 more for a new UBX3, less used. If there is, it's a good deal.

Not a great reference, but I paid $305 + $27.50 S&H + $67 for the RAM (I got ripped off there) for this X21, with the specs in my sig. That's with an UltraBase X2 and a DVD-ROM, just to clarify.