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    Got x61, do i get 2.66 x200 or wait for i7?

    Discussion in 'Lenovo' started by x61x200, Dec 4, 2009.

  1. x61x200

    x61x200 Notebook Consultant

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    Hey, ive currently got a 2.2GHz X61 however ive seen that the X200 goes upto 2.66GHz now, not 2.53 so im wondering whether its worth getting this or waiting for the i7 model???

    I would probably have to get something just after xmas, but i havent heard any news on the lenovo x series i7 model.

    Any suggestions? Also is it even worth going from 2.2GHz X61 to 2.66GHz X200??
     
    x61x200, Dec 4, 2009
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  2. MaloS

    MaloS Notebook Geek

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    To the last question. No. Well...unless you are doing something that milks your processor for every last bit...but then you are just using wrong computer =).

    Wait to see what Lenovo does in coming year, 2.2ghz should last you for a while.
     
    MaloS, Dec 4, 2009
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  3. ZaZ

    ZaZ Super Model Super Moderator

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    I say if you're happy with your X61, there's no reason to upgrade.
     
    ZaZ, Dec 5, 2009
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  4. JabbaJabba

    JabbaJabba ThinkPad Facilitator

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    I mirror the other two comments so far.

    Albeit a faster machine, the main benefits you will get by buying a X200(s) are as follows:

    - it runs extremely cool and quiet (miles ahead of the X61(s))
    - no warm palm rest issue
    - built-in webcam
    - wide screen 1280x800
    - more sturdy build quality especially around the lid
    - wider keyboard
     
    JabbaJabba, Dec 5, 2009
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  5. x61x200

    x61x200 Notebook Consultant

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    Ok guys. what about putting an intel SSD into my X61 would i see better performance from that?

    Thanks
     
    x61x200, Dec 5, 2009
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  6. JabbaJabba

    JabbaJabba ThinkPad Facilitator

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    In one word: Yes.

    It will make a huge difference in load/access times and will enable you to do disk multitasking without the significant stutters or wait times of a normal HDD (doesn't matter if it is 5400RPM or 7200RPM).

    Since I am so thrilled about the SSD performance of my X200 I am also considering upgrading my X61s with an aftermarket SSD. At the end of the day, I still love the form factor of the X61.
     
    JabbaJabba, Dec 5, 2009
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  7. jonlumpkin

    jonlumpkin NBR Transmogrifier

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    I'd recommend this as well. For most workloads an SSD has more impact than a few hundred extra MHz. You also get the added benefit of improved battery life, thermals, and acoustics. Check the SSD effects link in my sig.

    The top SSD choices right now are the Intel x25-M, OCZ Vertex, and the newer Samsung MLC drives (SLC is a little better, but much pricier). If you intend to upgrade your x61 to a newer model in the near future it may be wise to try and get a 1.8" drive with adapter (e.g. Intel x18-M) as I wouldn't be surprised if future X series use 1.8" drives exclusively (both the x301 and T400s do).
     
    jonlumpkin, Dec 5, 2009
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  8. Thaenatos

    Thaenatos Zero Cool

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    Agreed. But if you must upgrade I would say personally I would prefer a Core 2 duo ultraportable (12in and smaller) over an i7 version as the c2d will be a little more efficient. At least so far that's the consensus.
     
    Thaenatos, Dec 5, 2009
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  9. ZaZ

    ZaZ Super Model Super Moderator

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    On the flip side, a XGA screen is taller and easier to read. A SSD offers quicker boot times and some slower apps like Photoshop or iTunes do seem a bit quicker, but it was not a huge difference in my opinion. I guess it would depend on your needs. Plus you're paying a lot more and giving up a huge chuck of storage.
     
    ZaZ, Dec 5, 2009
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  10. x61x200

    x61x200 Notebook Consultant

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    Ive only got 80GB at the moment, so i wouldn't really be sacrificing too much storage!

    Maybe i will do that then, as the first i7s will be pretty rubbish efficiency-wise and the P8800 is an advanced c2d.
     
    x61x200, Dec 5, 2009
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  11. lead_org

    lead_org Purveyor of Truth

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    the x series due to the small size can't really accommodate a high TDP CPU, otherwise it would end up like a hot plate, or the fan will be constantly running just to keep the laptop cool enough for you to use. I think Lenovo in all their wisdom wouldn't want to repeat what they have done with the T7xxx CPU in their X61 again.

    Battery life and low noise from the fan is the primary objective of the Thinkpad X series, outright CPU/GPU processing power is not its objective.
     
    lead_org, Dec 5, 2009
    #11