IBM Thinkpad X31

Mitch, my Lenovo ThinkPad is beefed up quite a bit for speed and caatpicy because I expect to use it for 3 or more years. I added memory, extra disk and other things to make it fast. The order system on Lenovo steps you through your options like you find with most vendors.I know this isn't much detail but it is what I can share with you.Mike

When I was reading your post, I saw you menieontd DELL and thought that you would replace it with a DELL laptop. Hence my utmost joy when I noticed you replaced it with a LENOVO Thinkpad. Great choice. I firmly believe that Lenovo is one of the best choices available out there for all the important reasons sturdiness, reliability, performance, design, etc, etc. And it is not because I used to work for IBM lol (once an IBMer, always an IBMer I guess ). We use only IBM servers and Lenovo desktops/laptops at our construction site. And believe me, any computer that can withstand all the dust in this place, must be very robust. Enjoy your new W520 and keep us updated on what you do with it. Remember make backups!

The IBM Thinkpad is an excellent laptop, I have one for a year and a half now, and I love it!

Robust exterior, support software, no crashes. But Fn button where Ctrl should be, also, new batteries deteriorate fast and lack of installation cd can be a pain. I have travelled the world with this little ps and has never let me down (touch wood).

The IBM X series is IBM's smallest and lightest offering with the exception of lacking optical drive support built in, is IBM's preferred machine for it's small size, function, sex appeal as long as you're plugged into AC power, or carry a couple of extra batteries to change out if not near an AC power source. It's the definitive size to take onto airlines or general traveling about for portable computing. This is an older machine, but still quite usable, the compact flash comes in handy without having to go through a USB port.