Screen quality: T410 (1440x900) vs. T510 (1600x900)

I'm going for an Optimus T410 or T510 and the deciding factor will be the screen quality. I was happy with the mildly glossy Chi Mei TN-panel in my Zepto 6214W, and the not so good quality (according to reviews) of the Thinkpad panels gives me a little headache.

So I'm asking: which one is better in terms of black level, backlight evenness and contrast?

PS: I know, the wide gamut FHD screen for the T510 would probably be the best solution, but I can't find such a configuration around here (sanely priced).

 

^^^ They are roughly the same. On top of that, there is the unknown variable of supplier.

The FHD panel of the T510 is definitely better than the two you're considering. I'm not saying that it's "wow" either.

 

There is also some variance in the panels too like one Samsung or LG can be better or worse than the next.

 

You can compare on notebook check.
T510: Review Lenovo Thinkpad T510 - 4349-4JG Notebook - Notebookcheck.net Reviews
T410: Review Lenovo Thinkpad T410 2522-3FG Notebook - Notebookcheck.net Reviews

It seems to me that the T510 HD+ screen has better brightness and much better contrast. If screen quality is your concern, perhaps the T510 is a better bet. It is however, a bit heavier and bulkier.

I predict in the next generation of thinkpads, we'll be seeing more of 16:9 and less of 16:10. The benefit is that 16:9 screens are newer and should offer a better viewing experience. Too bad we'll lose a bit more vertical space as a consequence.

 

Thanks for your replies! If only HP had Optimus... their 1600x900 screen in the 8440p looks fine.

Man, why is buying a notebook so difficult? And the more you know, the more difficult it gets. There are tons of people buying 1366*768 cheap-o-acer notebooks and they are happy with it. Why can't that be me?

 

Because lot of people whom buy Acer probably is looking for a low cost machine, and they get what they paid for. Cheap and Chic....