Report from a happy Thinkpad Edge 11 user

So, after many years of using Apple laptops, I decided it was time to go back to Windows, as I found myself using a virtual machine running Windows most of the time anyway.

As I wanted something light and powerful, I opted for the Thinkpad Edge 11 series and got myself an NVY5EMH model (Intel Core i3, 4GB RAM, WWAN, anti-glare screen).

I've been using it for a few weeks now and couldn't be happier. I've hooked it up to a 22" monitor (1920x1080) via the VGA port and image quality is just great. Also, I had no problems pairing it with my old Bluetooth Apple Wireless Keyboard. I upgraded Windows 7 Professional to Ultimate via the Windows Anytime Upgrade feature and had no problems at all.

I've read that some find the fan to be too loud, and while I agree it's louder than on newer Apple laptops for example, I don't find it anywhere loud enough to be annoying. Sure, I can hear it in a quiet room, but with my windows open and some music on, I just don't notice it at all. I'm surprised how cool it keeps the laptop though, only spinning at 500RPM. Hard drive is whisper quiet (Western Digital WD3200BEVT).

The build quality is just fine, no squeaking or creaking. Keyboard is good, and I'm particularly fond of the PgUp and PgDn buttons. TrackPoint - what is there not to love?

The TouchPad, however, took some time to get used to. It's okay, but nothing compared to the spacious Multi-Touch monsters on recent Apple laptops. Not a biggie though, as I use the TrackPoint anyway when I'm out and about.

One detail I really like is the fact that the power and VGA ports are on the back of the laptop, which means I see no cables when I have it sitting on my desk hooked up to my external monitor. Makes for a neat looking desk.

Wi-Fi reception is much better than on my MacBook Pro. Haven't had the opportunity to try out the WWAN yet.

Another thing I found kind of cool is that my iPhone headphones with microphone worked out of the box with the combined input/output audio port.

All in all I'm very happy with the Edge 11, considering this particular model costs only about 640 EUR.

So, this was just a quick report for people out there thinking about buying the Edge 11. I say go for it.

If anyone has any questions about this model, just let me know and I'll try to answer them to the best of my ability.

 

Having had several Apple computers over the years and now exclusively using an Edge e220s, I can relate to almost everything you mentioned. Very pleased with this computer decision as well But personally, i like the touchpad at least as well as what I had on the 2008 MacBook.

 

IMHO the Edge 11 is one of the best 11.6" laptops available. The only thing that puts me off is the silver trim around the display bezel and the super-glossy lid. Also the screen could be better, but most 11.6" displays are mediocre at best.

There is a matte lid version somewhere out there, but its not available here in Greece...

 

I've read that some find the TouchPad drivers from Synaptic to be better than the Lenovo drivers. I think I'm going to give them a try and see if I see any improvements on the TouchPad front.

 

Never thought about the silver trim before. Thanks a lot man, now I can't unsee it!

The possibility to get a matte display was one of the main reasons I choose the Edge, and I'm glad I managed to hunt down such a model here in The Netherlands. I agree that the screen could be better though, but then again it's more than enough for my needs.