T400 keyboard vs. T61 keyboard - opinions?

So I bought a stock T61 keyboard to replace the one that came with my T400. Honestly, the T400 keyboard hasn't annoyed me hardly at all, but I still wonder if I replaced it with the T61 I got, would it be just that little much better?

I've seen people's comments here that seem to indicate that the keyboard on the T60 was the best one of T60, T61 and T400 (assuming one got the "right" manufacturer's one), but that they no longer make the T60 keyboard.

What have people found is the difference between the "good" T60 vs T61 keyboards?

- Tim

 

the t60's kb caves significantly less according to the people who swapped them and it much more comfortable to long period typing, thanks to its stronger back plate.
some people say the t400's kb contains no problems and the caving is only achieved by pressing very hard on each key or it and others find extreme fragility altogether by its less sturdy backplate.
i believe the kb issue is a personal one since it varies between each person. if u think your t400 kb is fine, then switching shouldn't be necessary.

 

You're absolutely right. The keyboard thing is definitely a personal issue. I'm going to wait to receive my Thinkpad before making any plans to purchase a keyboard.

 

Where does one get a replacement keyboard? And which of the full metal backplating (without holes) is compatible with the T400? I read somewhere about T60 or T61s, but aren't one of them a 15"?

I'm still well within my 21 days since receiving my T400, what is Lenovo's policy on switching keyboards? I don't expect the old IBM-solid, legendary keyboards of yore, but I did purchase the T400 expecting to have a more solid keyboard than my broken dv2700t.

 

I can't help but think that the backplate on the T400 keyboard has holes in it for a reason: keeping the machine cool. I'd love to see someone test the temperatures on a T400 using its native keyboard to those achieved on the same machine using a T60 or T61 keyboard... Hint Hint.

 

Well, I was actually asking more along the lines of, *IF* I were to change keyboards, would I notice a greater difference if I installed a T60 keyboard versus if I installed a T61 keyboard? That is, are the T60 and T61 keyboards different enough from each other, and the T61 keyboard more like the T400 keyboard, SUCH THAT installing a T60 keyboard would make a big difference, whereas installing a T61 keyboard would NOT make a big difference?

- Tim

 

I believe the primary reason is weight. The T400/T500/x200 all use the same keyboard. On the T400/T500 this leads to a small amount of flex. However, on the x200 there is no flex (probably because of the firmer smaller chasis), but keyboard weight does go from 6 to 4.5 ounces.

I think this is one of the ways that Lenovo reduced the weight on the x200 series compared to the x61 (they are physically wider, and about the same depth/height, so they had to save weight on the internals). I appreciate the change, but for some people, any reduction in keyboard stiffness is unacceptable.

 

The screen size doesn't matter. If it's a full-sized keyboard, then you're fine.

 

my t400 came with the exact same keyboard as my t61 (nmb). I dont think they are using the same keyboards in the t400 review (here on nbr) anymore

also if you have a problem or get the wrong keyboard, just call up tech support and they will ship you a new one. i've done it about 3 times now, never failed and always got what i requested (nmb)

the keyboard does flex around the page up key, however its not the keyboard itself, but rather a slightly uneven frame (i think). either way, i bent an index card and taped it to the frame (over the ultrabay) and then remounted the keyboard. no more flex/give. I will probably have a local depot have a look when i have more free time

 

I hear you, but here's my complaint. If I'm putting up over a grand for a machine (or any amount for that matter), I really don't think it's unreasonable to expect a pristine machine. I, or no other customer who pays hard-earned cash, should have to bend index cards and tape them to the frame of anything, especially not a Thinkpad, which has be revered for its build quality for years and years and years. Where is Lenovo's QC department? Why haven't they taken a long look since a lot of the complaints are the same among the dissatisfied customers, albeit the minority?

At the moment, this is my biggest concern. I'll deal with whatever flex I find, etc. However, I really don't want to have to deal with frames that are slightly uneven or some of the other common complaints I've heard about.

 

Same here! I plan to purchase a laptop by Saturday and this is the only thing holding me back from getting the T400. I do not want to deal with warping issues or parts of the bezel coming apart in the first month of ownership. I've moved past the flex and keyboarding issues. I would like my brand new $1500 machine to last while studying in China for 3yrs and my number one concern is the toughness/build and Lenovo support.

I'm really only considering the T400 and the T60 2 or 4GB at Circuitcity for $729 and $829 after months of exhausting research.

Is the bezel plastic coming unglued and the warping fairly common?

 

I've had my T400 since september and bezel is fine for me and no warping here.

 

Awesome. Thanks for the response. I'm leaning towards the T400 and it's nice to hear some positive experiences. This will certainly make me feel good about my purchase. If I may ask, does it perform well using Vista. I've never used vista before and would like to give it a try. Sorry for going off topic.