Disappointed with quality of new X2X and X1 machines

[WilsonF]

I recently purchases about 10 x2x and X1 systems. One X220 came with a loose connection on the motherboard (intermittent power-offs when typing or moving machine) and one X1 came with a non-working mic.

I think both probably are motherboard issues, and Lenovo will handle them with on-site warranty service.

However, this is the first time I've ever seen important quality issues in two of such a small number of new ThinkPads, and I'm surprised and disappointed. Previously the only out-of-the-box quality issue I've had was one DOA machine in just under 20 years of buying a total of a couple hundred ThinkPads. We pay premium prices for quality and durability (and the keyboards of course).

The new Xs that work are really fantastic, however.

Have others noticed anything like this with recent buys?

[jdrou]

The only issues I've had with my X201 are related to the Intel graphics. First it was unable to use the full 1 GB of graphics memory under Windows XP until the last BIOS update. Second it will occasionally lock up when standing idle (also under XP) and the crash report indicates it's the graphics driver (this has been ongoing through many driver revisions using both Intel- and Lenovo-supplied drivers).

[rleo25]

Sorry to hear that! No problems with my X220. 1 month of use. Extraordinary experience with this machine.

[dr_st]

I don't think you should draw far-reaching conclusions based on two cases. Statistically, the difference between "1 out of" or "2 out of" is almost meaningless.

As far as paying premium prices, well, we used to pay premium prices, not any more. In recent years Thinkpads (like every other laptop) have been commoditized like there's no tomorrow. There were times where a base configuration of a Thinkpad cost $2500, now it's what - $800? $600? And money is naturally worth far less due to inflation.

[rleo25]

For example in October 2006 I paid for a T60 with a normal configuration and 3 years warranty US $ 2700 ! And it wasn't a premium price in those days. Remember how much charged for a X60 gold edition in a leather case ?