T43 14.1' XGA vs. SXGA+

This forum is amazing. Thanks to everyone that contributes. I've learned alot from reading everyone's input.

I'm about to puchase a T43. I'm returning to the Thinkpad family after a brief and disappointing experience with a Toshiba (I thought the grass was greener on the other side). I've had both the video card and sound card die on me before the thing was 2 years old, plus multiple cracks in the case.

I can't decide between a 14.1" XGA or SXGA+ screen. What differences will I notice? I'm current a student and on a tight budget so I want to minimize costs. I will be using the Thickpad to watch movies, run office apps, surf the web and to view images (anatomy photos, microscopic images, etc.)

What would you recommend?

Thanks!!

 

Definately go with the SXGA i've been using the XGA on my old toshiba and it sucks, the SXGA is the best resolution so far.

 

I think either will work fine. I personally would prefer SXGA. Guess you'll have to decide which is more important money or screen real estate. Good Luck.

 

Thanks for the advice. I ended up buying the XGA screen. 1.86mhz, X300, 60gig 5400rpm HD, 512 ram, CDRW, B/G wireless for $1100. The cheapest T43 with the SXGA screen would've added $300 + tax to the price.

The SXGA machine was a much better value because it adds a better screen, 80 gig HD, DVD-RW, bluetooth, A/B/G wireless and a 3 year warranty. But, extra $300 means no groceries for a month.

I hate being a student, should've stopped after undergrad.

I'm going to add a gig of ram instead. Any suggestions of which brand to use?

Cheers.

 

It is a great machine. When you are making the big bucks, you can get all the bells and whistles.

 

The SXGA is a nice to have but not necessary, better to eat and survive.

Try crucial.com or newegg.com for memory -- you'll get taken to the cleaners if you buy via Lenovo.com for memory

 

from screenshots that were given by zazon a while ago, i prefer xga. anyway if yours is a 1 yr warranty, imo try to pick one with 3 yr warranty.

 

Go to www.newegg.com you can get a stick of Corsair, one of the best brands out there, for about $10 more than generic.