Questions about buying a X32

After weeks of wavering between the T series and the X series, between a thin-and-light and an ultraportable, I have almost decided to buy a X32 as it seems to offer the best compromise between the power of a T4x and the ultraportability of a X4x.

I have, however, a few nagging doubts about the wisdom of my choice. As of December 1, Lenovo has reduced its X32 offerings to five preconfigured models only, and these appear only on their Visa page. I gather from that that the X32 will soon be phased out. I cannot wait for a future hypothetical X33 because I would have to order by the end of the month at the latest to ensure delivery in early February.

Is it wise to order a machine about to be discontinued (I might be mistaken on that but all signs point to it)?

In case I take the plunge, is the difference between a 1.8 GHz and a 2 GHz processor significant?

Thanks for your thoughts.

 

I myself am far more hesitant about ordering one of the first machines off an assembly line, rather than the last.

And while maintaining the service and support structure for older product is a pain, that is Lenovo's problem, not yours. A warranty is a warranty.

If there are any unique accessories (or upgrade items) for the X32, these may become harder to find.

(Just babbling to myself here).

 

You'll still get excellent ThinkPad service and quality whether it is discontinued or not. I'd opt for the 1.8Ghz. If you want to spend some extra money I would upgrade the hard drive to 7200RPM or more memory. You'll get a bigger boost there. You can order it preconfigured ones at other sites if you need it sooner, but then you don't get the 30 day return policy. Good Luck.

 

Thanks, spacemanspiff and zazonz for your feedback.

Zazonz, I looked up some of the big notebook vendors -- I hadn't thought of doing that before your post -- and found that they stock many more configurations, at better prices, than Lenovo. The big question is, is it worth forgoing the 30 day return policy of Lenovo in order to save $250-$300 (no tax, ultrabase and DVD combo included)?

 

I can't really answer that question for you. I got my ThinkPads off eBay, but I knew that was what I wanted and was not going to return it. And I am a cheap bastard. I guess if you are not sure and would like to opportunity to return it, I'd buy from Lenovo. Most internet retailer do not accept return. If you get a dead pixel or two, you are probably stuck with it. If you are looking for a drive, I would get a laptop drive and put it in a USB powered case. I would recommend the NEC 6650 at NewEgg. It is a much better drive than anything offered by Lenovo. I also got the Mini Dock off eBay for about half what Lenovo was charging for it. Good Luck.

 

Thanks very much,zazonz, for your quick response. I might just take the risk of ordering from a reseller and learn to live with a couple of dead pixels (if unlucky) because, in any case, returning a laptop to Lenovo, waiting for a refund and ordering a new one during the space of a one-month visit to the States might turn out to be an ordeal.

Thanks for the burner advice. I don't think the X32 has a powered USB port, if that matters. Could you recommend a specific enclosure for the NEC drive you suggest?

I appreciate your advice.

 

I can't imagine at least one USB port isn't powered. This is the case I got for my 6500:

http://www.centrix-intl.com/details.asp?productid=435

It looks kinda cheap, but once you get it together it feels pretty solid.

 

Ah, the confusion of IBM calling one USB port on the X4x a "powered" port...

Anyway, the ports on the X32 are powered (in the traditional sense), but they're not USB + Power. Basically, all you're getting out of them is 5V, 500mA, whereas a USB + Power port, is, IIRC, 5V, 1.5A (or 1500mA).

 

The case a mentioned has two USB plugs in case one is not enough.

 

Thanks, zazonz and bhtooefr , for the info.