X31 vs X40?

[mburns]

I have been looking at the pdf's in the FAQ about models, but I can't figure something out. Why is the x40 start at only 1.0 Ghz, whil the x31 starts at 1.4 Ghz... Why does the lower number look like a better machine?

For a good, but older laptop, is the x40 going to be a cheaper deal, or the x31? And why the weird numbering issues?

Thanks again.

[stgreek]

I have been looking at the pdf's in the FAQ about models, but I can't figure something out. Why is the x40 start at only 1.0 Ghz, whil the x31 starts at 1.4 Ghz... Why does the lower number look like a better machine?

For a good, but older laptop, is the x40 going to be a cheaper deal, or the x31? And why the weird numbering issues?

Thanks again.

The difference is that they are effectively different lines. The X40 is NOT the replacement for the X31, it is a different machine. Let me explain:

1. The X31 comes with normal P-M, while most (if not all) X40 come with LV or ULV versions of the P-M, which is why you see low frequencies on the X40

2. The X40 is smaller than the X31. Not by too much, but it is smaller.

3. The X31 takes normal 2.5" drives, while the X40 takes 1.8" drives. Ie if you want a fast/big drive you go for the X31.

4. They both lack an optical drive.

5. The X31 has a radeon graphics chip, the X40 has integrated memory.

As you can see, they are quite different machines. In fact, many people (including myself) believe that the X31, especially with the new prices, are a much better deal than the X40. It is better however to check them yourself, in person if possible, and decide which one you like.

Hope this helps
Stavros

[mburns]

That helps a ton. I had been thinking x31, but with this(radeon chip vs. integrated video esspecially) I think I am sold. I don't think I will buy until August(the longer I wait, the lower earlier models will cost), but I am really wanting to nail down what boxes meet my needs. Thanks for pointing that out.

[beeblebrox]

I think you should wait a few weeks, when the X41 and X32 come out.
With Sonoma, the shared memory graphics chip is dramatically faster. PCworld compares it to a Radeon 9000.
Maybe the X32 will have some X300, X600. Don't know.
Latest dates were something like April for release.

[mburns]

With Sonoma, the shared memory graphics chip is dramatically faster. PCworld compares it to a Radeon 9000.

Just so I understand this right, you are saying the shared memory video card of the X40 is dramatically faster than the dedicated memory card of the x31?

I would like the ability to play games(Civilization 3, half-life 1 &2, etc) if possible, so a better performing graphics card is always a good thing.

[stgreek]

With Sonoma, the shared memory graphics chip is dramatically faster. PCworld compares it to a Radeon 9000.

Just so I understand this right, you are saying the shared memory video card of the X40 is dramatically faster than the dedicated memory card of the x31?

I would like the ability to play games(Civilization 3, half-life 1 &2, etc) if possible, so a better performing graphics card is always a good thing.

No, he is saying that WHEN the X41 comes, IF it is based on a 915 chipset the shared graphics card is faster than the dedicated memory on the X31. The thing is, by then maybe there will be an X32 with a better card. So if you want to play the waiting game, maybe you'll find something better. Now, the best option is (again in my opinion) the X31

[beeblebrox]

Yeah, the old waiting game.
Just when you have decided to buy, and carry your brand-new computer out of the shop's door you see the sales guys putting the next-generation stuff on the empty place where your computer was just a minute ago.

Of course, the new one is way faster, much better equipped and even cheaper than yours.
I found out that the computer replacement cycle for a generation is 6 months, so April seems valid for the release. If you can wait 2-3 weeks...

[bigscreen]

Maybe this helps... Babelfish translation from http://www.thinkpad.cn. I don't know how reliable the source is. What I'm really curious about is which graphics card the X32 will have.

• T43, R52, X32, X41 glisten is taken to the threshing ground
  
  Along with INTEL issued the new edition notebook rapidly spread the platform, IBM ThinkPad each series new type also glistens is taken to the threshing ground.
  First said T43/p, little while ago already officially issued, the home station news has also made the related report, here some at that time not and the specify said. T43/p still was continues to use T40/41/42 the mold, the motherboard screw position all is same, in other words, may place T43/p above T40/41/42 the motherboard to carry on the promotion; T43/p starts to use Broadcom 1000000000000000 nets card; The PCMCIA slot will have the modification, the original T40/41/42 PCMCIA plug-in unit may not directly insert, the new edition slot will support PCMCIA and Express Card each. Reveals the card to use multi-levelly, has the INTEL integration, also has Ati Radeon X300, X600, T43p uses FireGL V3200, Ati these section reveals the card is PCI the Express connection, what is worth mentioning even if above X300 radiator fin, also has used the before T41p/42p such big piece white metal.
  
  R52 uses 915PM or the 915GM chip group, supports the 533MHz system bus, is same with T43/p, also uses new edition the PCMCIA/ExpressCard slot, this aspect R series returns the comparison with every effort; R52 will use the Dothan core the match to raise M and P-M, in view of different type; As for the display monitor aspect, R52 no longer will use Flexview (IPS) the screen.
  
  X series, X32 will continue to use original X31 the overhead construction, will use ordinary edition Dothan core P-M CPU, high will support 2.0GH P-M 755, and will have will embark 5,400 revolution of 80GB hard disk the type; X41 continues to use X40 the overhead construction, uses 915 chips groups and low voltage edition Dothan core P-M CPU, the integrated fingerprint recognition system, the hard disk has the promotion, has 30GB and the 60GB two kinds, but still was 1.8 inches specifications.
  
  Along with the new turbine promotion, IBM also simultaneously promoted many patterns tool software, in particular in security and network management aspect.