T420 or X220?

Hello,

I'm trying to decide which laptop I should buy. I highly desire a solid nine hours of battery life.

Other than that, could someone tell me the major differences between the two? I know they have different screen sizes.

I have more detail regarding what I am looking for on the "what should I buy" page... http://forum.notebookreview.com/what-notebook-should-i-buy/599977-need-new-one.html

Thanks!

 

If portability is key then the X220. The T420 is still portable but significantly larger/heavier than the X-series, especially with the 9-cell battery that you'll need to get the battery life you're looking for. The T420s is smaller (and pricier).

Major differences of note: T420 has higher resolution screen option, optical drive, the option of a discrete graphics card (which it doesn't sound like you'll need). The X220 has the option of a far better screen (in terms of viewing angles, color accuracy). The X-series also has a much smaller palm rest area which I've never really got along with, but I have big hands!

If I didn't need an optical drive and prefer a higher resolution screen I would have got the X220 instead of the T420 (and I still borrow my GF's X201 regularly!)

 

I picked the T420 for discrete graphics and the large palmrest. The X220's is too small for comfort, and I have very small hands.

 

Recently, having started using a Android tablet, I have been wondering whether I need a X series machine in the first place. Much of the portability issue is taken care of by the tablet. But I am not giving up my X201 in a hurry. Some months of experimentation are needed, me thinks!!!

 

I thought about a tablet too, but I find the PC to be more versatile and i prefer a keyboard.

Brittney, I'd say if you want nine hours of battery life that would indicate to me that you need some portability, which makes the X220 a better choice.

 

I would say it depends on if you are working on your Laptop directly or with a docking station (i.e. external display, keyboard, mouse). If not, then I find the X220 to small for comfortable and productive use. The T420 would be far better as a desktop replacement. But if you are docking the machine, I would take the X220.

 

I just meant to say that a T class machine coupled with a tablet may work well together in some scenarios.

 

Thanks for explaining the differences and the options available for both laptops.

I ordered the T420 due to actually working on it all day. Also, I ordered the 9-cell battery and the 9-cell slice. I know it is rated for 30 hours. If I can get 20 hours of actual use from the two combined, I will be very happy.

Thanks again for all of your help!