Need to buy T61 tonight, have some questions.

Is there a difference between the Linux and Windows version..

Seems the linux version is cheaper...is the hardware on the two models different or just pure OS difference.

Also, I'm not a gamer so I will go with integrated graphics.
and
T8100
T8300
T9300
which one?

the following...
Intel® Turbo Memory hard drive cache
and
Integrated Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)
should I get or not necessary?

 

As far as I know there is no hardware difference, the price is changed due to OS difference, I can't see lenovo making a separate laptop just for linux.

WWAN probably isnt necessary unless you plan on getting wireless internet for your laptop, if you don't right away it may be better just to get a express card down the road.

Turbo memory has lots of bad rep, it seems to do bad things in XP and probably gives you no benefit if you run linux

Processor, 8300 seems to be pretty bang for the buck for 30 dollar upgrade, I forget T9300 upgrade cost. What do you plan to do on your laptop, depending on your needs that may warrant the price changes of processors.

 

Hardware wise, there's no difference between the Linux and Windows version.

The T8300 seems to be the sweet spot. If you can afford the T9300, get that. If not, stick with the T8300.

Turbo Memory is a waste of money in my opinion. If you're planning on using XP, don't bother with Turbo Memory because it isn't supported under XP.

WWAN is used for cellular internet. If you plan on using cellular internet with Verizon/AT&T, then get it.

 

unless you need or foresee heavy processor usage, as has been said the t8300 is the best bang for the buck. the t9500 is worst bang for buck. the t9300 is reasonably priced if you need a little extra speed.

 

Perfect you guys are all great!!
This was the exact answer I was waiting for.
THANK YOU !!!!!!!!!
but I forgot to ask. WXGA or WSXGA?

I'll go with the T8300 since I am on a slight budget.
I will forgo with the last two options turbo mem and wwan

And I will get the LINUX since I already have windows XP OS on hand...does this make sense for not paying for another window XP? I can reformat linux do clean start..

Heres what it looks like at checkout.

ThinkPad T61 15 Widescreen - 1 Yr Depot Warranty
6465CTO $824.25
Processor: T8300 (2.4GHz 800MHz 3MBL2)
Operating System: SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop version 10
Operating System Language: SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop
Display Panel: 15.4 WXGA TFT
Total memory: 1 GB PC2-5300 DDR2 SDRAM 667MHz (1 DIMM)

Hard Drive: 80GB Hard Disk Drive, 5400rpm
System expansion slots: PC Card Slot & Express Card Slot

Wireless cards: Intel PRO/Wireless 3945ABG
Bluetooth: Integrated Bluetooth PAN

 

the resolution is more personal preference but since you're going integrated graphics you'd probably want to get the wxga. what windows xp do you have? if it's oem you definitely cannot put it on another computer. if it's retail, you can, but i forget all the stipulations about how and what you need to do before you do so.

 

Okay I will go with the WXGA,

Regarding the windows OS, is it lenovo that prevents it or the software itself prevents it from installing into the lenovo laptop?

I think I have OEM from a previous compaq I had couple years ago.

 

if it's oem, it's tied to the hardware it's installed on. you can't use it legally on another computer.

 

Personally I would pick the WXGA+ because of the higher resolution.

 

re edit due to legality issues.

 

i can't answer that. and that question is against the TOS.

 

You could just use your XP (if it's non OEM) and install it. Then give them a call to activate it.