Q re x220

[minkle]

I'm new to Thinkpad, looking at a decent use MBA laptop, wondered whether the x220 was significantly (=$200) better than the T420. I think I can get the x220 i5 inc slice for c. $1000 from the site, wondered whether there were any tips to buying cheap / at a particular time of year etc. I'm not a Lenovo plant, serious question. 

Cheers

Minkle

[lead_org Microsoft MVP Contributor]

since you don't list the country where you reside, it is very hard to tell you which is what in terms of pricing.

So if you will enlighten with the country you are residing in, then we can tell you answer to your question.

[minkle]

USA. There seem to be frequent offers, but I'm not sure what the ballpark should be for i5. a couple of extra qs-  Is the HD Premium screen worth getting? Is the slice as effective as it seems?

Thanks!

[lead_org Microsoft MVP Contributor]

Premium LCD is an IPS LCD, and it is definitely a must if you like high quality LCD image. I would imagine 800 to 900 dollars should be what you are looking at with 4 gigs of ram, 320 gigs platter hdd. 

[minkle]

Thanks. Is the 220 significantly more useful (quicker, slower to outdate) then tha T420?

[ColonelONeill]

The components between the X220 and T420 are generally the same except for the screen and form factor.

The one key point is the availability of discrete graphics on the T420, which can prolong usable life slightly if you do graphically demanding work or play games.

[lead_org Microsoft MVP Contributor]

they use the same CPU classes, so they have the same rate of obsolescence. However, lenovo did drop the price of X220, so i think the better way of looking at it, is that you get more for your money.

[minkle]

That's exactly the advice I was looking for, thank you. Do I need to dig around for deals / codes to get that price range, do you think, or just wait for the right window? They seem a little more now. I have a 10% sign-up voucher and/or I can use the student affiliate program, I think. Last thought, does anyone have a view on the reality of using the slice?

Really appreciate this.