Thinkpad Edge 420s

/bump for more replies / reviews / comments from owners?

Also, does anyone have word on when the GPU model will be available?

 

I'm working on my review and will hopefully post it this evening or tomorrow.

BenMar

 

New review at notebookcheck.net. Translate from German. These tend to be very thorough and objectively measured (in typical german fashiion.)

Test Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E420s Notebook - Notebookcheck.com Tests

Seems to agree with user observations that the screen is terrible but otherwise a good notebook. They did give it a surprisingly weak 79% grade.

Good news is that they do not comment on any heat issues or throttling like they do with the Acer 4820TG. Also odd they criticize the lack of SSD options, but fail to point out that it is one of the few laptops that support an mSSD.

Overall, this laptop is still at the top of my list, but the lousy screen and no 6630m in the US (yet) is giving me second thoughts. Also not happy that I can't carry around a second battery for cross-Atlantic flights.

 

See my review here.

Regards,
BenMar

 

Anyone cross shopping the Sony CA vs this, the sony has the same cpu, gpu, and blu ray and a higher res screen, but it cost 1200 to have all of those features.

 

I am thinking of returning my 420s because of the screen issue (plastic not glass). The glass screen was a selling point for me an I didn't discover that it wasn't glass until after I received the device. Anyone here have any experience with lenovo returns? I know they state "subject to a 15% restocking fee" but I don't think I should have to pay it since they clearly misstated the screen material.

 

Yes, im going through the "process" now. hope you have lots of patience:

Here is my account of things so far:

http://forum.notebookreview.com/lenovo-ibm/579199-lenovo-sales-service-2.html

 

What country are you in? Did they say whether they are going to try and charge you the 15% restocking fee?

 

Republic of Ireland. They guaranteed that I would not have to pay restocking fee, but il believe that when i see it. They have proved completely incompetent so far, i dont see how they will come good on their no restocking fee promise.

 

I'll start my battle with them tonight. I'm going to try it with their chat service so that I'll have a written record. If they excuse me from the restocking fee in that conversation then I'll take it up with my credit card if they don't follow through. I'll let you know how it goes!

 

my German is quite rusty, but if I get it they complained about the screen bending when pushed - hence the poor build quality score

 

I've always thought the "screen bends when pushed" argument was overblown. I rarely (never?) push my screen... That said, I would love to see a brighter matte screen, and higher res would be an easy upgrade for me.

I guess I just don't get the "it's not glass! it's PLASTIC" rage. For me, the killer would be a low-quality screen, not the presence of plasti-glass.

 

It's both. The screen is lower quality (look at the german review brightness and contrast numbers) and the way the plastic is applied. This IMO makes the screen worse than a normal plastic screen in that there is space between the "infinity glass" and the actual display instead of a fused component. To me, glass should be glass and if it's not, don't call it that.

 

I think I understand your concerns, warehouse. It's why I'm not pulling the trigger on this one. Brightness is low, screen already subpar, and then throw a layer over it.

If Lenovo could just get a good screen on it, it would be pretty ideal for the business-minded consumer who likes the occasional game...

 

Bah! I had high hopes for this laptop. Guess I'll be looking at the upcoming Envy 14 SB or the XPS 14z...

The Ideapad Y470 doesn't look too bad either, though it's a bit bulky.

 

I agree. I like everything else about it. It's pretty light, the keyboard is great, the battery is sufficient and the trackpad works well with some tweaking. The screen just isn't on par with the rest of the machine. I would advise trying to see one before you purchase it, although that's pretty hard with these models.

 

Notebook Check now has the English version of their review up.

Review Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E420s Notebook - Notebookcheck.net Reviews

 

After reading that... especially "Display... and thus the display isn't suitable for professional users (picture editing)." I started to look around for another option and sony vaio ca series looks really good compatitor (like someone mentioned before). I'm only not sure if theres big different between AMD Radeon(TM) HD 6630M 1GB and 2GB version. If until that more options with screen will come out, maybe I'll change my mind.

Few days ego I wrote letter to UK lenovo and asked about screen if will have more options in future and the answer today arrived:

 

Yesterday I was looking at the basic Thinkpad Edge at Office Depot, the screen on it was pretty tough, I had to push on it pretty hard for it to deflect, it was stronger than the Dell latitude screen I am using now, the screen on the Dell feels paper thin, even a tiny amount of pressure deflects the screen. I was impressed with Edge screen, so if the E420S is just a regular Edge screen with another piece of plastic over it, it should be pretty durable.

 

/bump for more reviews. For owners is the screen as poor as others have indicated? It's hard to get your hands on a store model of these...

 

Just ordered mine. Had an IdeaPad Y450 beforehand and the motherboard died, so I think ordering a ThinkPad, even the Edge series, was a good move. The screen I am a little pissed off about, but I don't think it's such a big deal coming off of always having horrible screens. Got it for $1015 including tax with a 3 year ADP warranty since I'm a little rough on my laptop. Will post a review as soon as I get it and have an opinion.

 

Laptop Mag just gave it 4 stars and named it an "Editor's Choice":

Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E420s Review | ThinkPad & Laptop Reviews | Best Notebook and Laptop Reviews

Not much talk about the screen other than it can get glossy sometimes... maybe all this talk will persuade Lenovo to give a Matte alternative (or even better... an HD+ screen or IPS (dreaming)).

Any other owners care to weigh in?

 

anyone got any customer rep update on the 6630m?

Right now..im starting to lean toward the Sony Vaio SA..which has the 1600x900 and 6630m option available....wish it was 14" inch screen...but..Lenovo is being so damn slow right now..

Also not sure if the 1366x786 would be a deal breaker or not for me...

 

Sure, I'll post.

I've had the computer for a while now and can comment on a few things:

* First the speakers broke, and they repaired it in 6 days. Not so fun, but I guess it happens. Besides that issue, the speakers sound great - but don't expect any lower frequencies.

* The screen isn't the best as people are stating, but I don't think it's that bad. Its glossy but unless I'm outside or at minimum brightness, I don't notice it. The colors are kind of washed out but I'm not that picky.

* The keyboard is just wonderful! I love it.

* The touchpad is kind of rough, but is big, quick and works when getting used to it and with a bit of tweaking. The trackpoint is cool though, definitly something I'll start to use.

* The build quality is good imo, I think the hinges are good but I suppose that's because I haven't played around with 3000$ computers like pro reviewers have and apparently compares with. At some points the body flexes (below the touchpad) but I mean thats only when you seek faults and not something that disturbs me.

* Beautiful design, slim, feels light, opens with one hand

* Switchable graphics: Kind of hard to configure, it didn't work for a while but I think it is now (is there a good way to check which one that is in use at a particular time?). Could've been more intuitive.

If you want to know something else or more specific, or se a close up photo of something, just ask.

 

I helped pick out an E420s for my girlfriend, after returning a Dell Vostro 3450. She has had it for about a week and a half, and she herself is very pleased with it. However, I must say that initially I wasn't very thrilled with the E420s. Although, I think that's because I was expecting a bit too much, in combination with being overly critical. Let me explain...

Overall it feels well built, and for the most part there is a lot to like about the E420s. So I'm just going to try to quickly touch on some things I have seen people comment on, or ask about (as well as some of my own observations).

The glossy screen is glossy. If you don't like glossy (like me), or plan to use the machine outdoors, or in rooms with non-uniform lighting (or lots of windows), then I wouldn't recommend the screen at all. The glossy screen does add to the apparent contrast to make the images "pop" a bit (like all glossy screens are supposed to do). However, the accuracy of the colors on the screen are definitely inferior when set next to my higher end 24" desktop monitor. But honestly, if you're not using this for graphic arts, or aren't uber-picky, then I don't think you'll have too much trouble with the color. Viewing angles are adequate, and it should be easy to view from any angle you would reasonably expect to use the laptop at (unless there's glare). The touchpad is huge (which is nice), but does seem to collect oils from skin (making the center look a bit splotchy if viewed from an angle). There are so many touchpad settings it's honestly ridiculous. I'm still trying to get the 2-finger scrolling to work perfectly (it sometimes hesitates or jumps). The screen hinges are firm enough, and the screen will hold its setting once you position it. I personally think the firmness is fine (but my laptop is a T61p with completely sloppy hinges, so I'm not hard to please). The rubbery finish is nice, but does collect finger prints - or more accurately smudges from oil on your skin. Battery life seems to be nice. My girlfriend uses it for office productivity tasks and internet browsing primarily, and she's getting 4+ hours between charges (including a lot of standby time).

I guess that's about it. If you can live with the screen (and without USB3 or an Expresscard slot), then I would say don't hesitate to get it.

 

I saw the ThinkPad X1 announcement with some photos. It looks like the X1 is using an identical keyboard (in terms of size and keyboard layout) to the E420s. However, the X1 has a backlit keyboard. If the dimensions are compatible, does anyone know if it would be possible to hack the E420s to accommodate a backlit X1 keyboard? Or, will the backlit keyboard have an additional plug, some BIOS whitelist, or another obstacle that would prevent this?

Thanks for any input

 

Ga0rjay:
I also had a lot of trouble with the two-finger scroll, but a setting that I feel resolved the problem for me was to set the sensitivity on the touchpad to lightest possible.

 

Still no news on the 6630m in the US? Guess I'm gonna have to give up on this one.

 

do what i did...and start looking at the Sony Vaio SA...1600x900 & 6630m gfx card...sure you won't have the awesome keyboard anymore...but u'll get a thinner/lighter laptop w/ a better display.

 

Since so many people are mad about the "plastic" infinity glass screen, has any one just taken the plastic off? This would make the laptop the same as the basic E420.

 

I don't know where else to ask, since I couldn't find an E420 thread but...

I don't think the E420s is available in my country yet - what's the difference between the E420s and the E420?

I'm thinking about grabbing an E420 with the 6630m and a matte screen - I mean, it's only lacking one thing, a higher res screen, but that's it! Also considering getting the 9 cell battery - does anyone know if it sticks out? How much weight will it add?

If I don't get a response by tomorrow night, I think I might just pull the trigger on this one.

 

the s model is basically a slimmer and lighter model, with magnesium and aluminum construction

yes the 9 cell will stick out

I would get that laptop

 

If you look through this forum more, and read all the pages of this thread it will answer your questions and possibly give you more comfort in purchasing the E420. The E420 is all plastic, it is a little thinner then the original thinkpad, but the E420S is really thin, weighs less and has some metal parts, like the trim around the edge of the system and it seems that the hinges are metal, the regular E420 has plastic hinges. If the E420 is available with the AMD 6630m, that is new news to me. The 9 cell battery will stick out the back but the weight should not bother you. Look on Youtube
YouTube - ‪Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E420‬‏
This link shows the battery sticking out.
Also the E420 has an express card the E420S does not.

 

Thanks for the replies, guys.

I feel like I've searched the entire internet for information on the E420, but it seems like there isn't much information on it. Didn't think about checking Youtube xD

After finding out more, I've decided not to get it, since it doesn't seem to have very good battery life, and it's a little heavier than I'd like. My current laptop is about 5.3lbs (without the AC adapter!) with ~3 hours of battery life, and that's something I definitely want to improve with its replacement.

Just when I thought that I'd found the perfect laptop Probably doesn't even exist, heh.

 

How is everyone satisfied with the build quality of their e420s machines? After owning mine for just over a month, I am starting to notice some disconcerting cosmetic wear on the machine. Specifically, the protective matte layer on the bottom corners of the machine is starting to peel off, exposing the black pigment underneath.

Also, the "chrome" bezel on the back of the screen by the hinges is starting to come loose. I am going to contact customer service regarding these issues, but I was just wondering if anyone else is having similar problems with their systems.

For reference, my machine has been traveling back and forth with me to work everyday. Other than a daily commute, it hasn't seen much transportation. Certainly no cross-country flights, and only minimal public transportation in a padded messenger bag.

 

That sucks about your e420s falling apart, I still want to buy one, if the AMD 6630M ever comes out.

 

I haven't noticed the things you're mentioning, but I wouldn't be surprised if I will. I would describe the build quality as great if you're simply using the computer normally, but kind of bad if you push/pull at certain spots and are examinating it closely. This said, I'm content with the quality if it doesnt start to fall apart.

Otherwise im happy with the computer, some wierd issues here and there but can't imagine a better windows computer within the price range.

 

After speaking with Lenovo, I decided to return this system. I just don't think it will hold up for 3 years of law school (and ideally many more after that).

In its place, I've ordered a CTO T420 with a 1600x900 screen, i5 processor, upgraded wireless and bluetooth for just $15 more than what I paid for the e420s (T420=$750). With the T-series' reputation for durability, the improved battery life, and the upgrades that I was able to get at a discount, I think this is the right call.

I hope things turn out better for other e420s owners! It was a good system overall, but it did not pair well with my usage patterns.

 

Are there any E520 (i5-2410, amd 6630) reviews? I can't find anything about it.

 

Has anyone taken the infinity glass off of their e220s or e420s. Is it plastic, is it glass, does anyone have a product number and the website where a person can buy a replacement. Does anyone know if the actual lcd screen in the E420s is different or the same as the E420, any proof, any product numbers, and websites?

 

HI debiandroid,
I'm sorry about your E420s. I was wondering if you carried your E420s in a neoprene or some other sleeve on its daily journey or was it just in a padded pocket of a briefcase/bag?

I was planning on being mobile with my E420s in a padded neoprene Targus sleeve and carried in a bag. Depending on the bag, I'm using on a given day, there may be the extra protection of a padded pocket. However there will be times when only the neoprene sleeve will be protecting it inside the bag. I am hoping this will be enough to protect it or I may reconsider taking it mobile.

For anyone with an E420s...Any one else experiencing cosmetic problems after a month or more of mobility?

 

I did not use a neoprene sleeve, just a padded messenger bag. From what I've read about the paint-jobs on other Thinkpad models, that may have been part of my problem. Other forums here on NBR claim that exposed edges have long been known to develop significant wear in the first few months of use even on more "premium" Thinkpad series (T, X, the old R).

My recommendation: definitely use a sleeve when transporting this model. The bottom casing is subject to wear and will probably find your bag alone to be too abrasive.

 

Finally got a Lenovo rep to admit that they've been having GPU shortages due to the disaster in Japan...hence the lack of a dedicated GPU in the E420s.

Would like to the pull the trigger on this one, but only when the AMD 6630M becomes available...

Any other owners out there with any feedback / reviews?

 

Does anyone here have an Edge with AMD's automatic switchable graphics?

 

Seriously, I've been literally waiting from April for the dedicated graphics card to come out in California. Does anyone know when this comes out?

 

I've been waiting too. All the reps I've talked to have no idea what I'm talking about--that Lenovo has no plans to release it in the US with a dedicate GPU.

Too bad, too. Throw a great screen on this with a GPU, and I'd gladly shell out 1000+

 

Hey, if you've got an e420s, how's your battery life? Laptopmag.com says they got 7 hours of surfing, but I'm not getting anything close to that

Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E420s Review - Battery Life, Configs, Software, Verdict

 

Maybe I am wrong, but what is the difference between the E420 and the E420S, as far as actual working components, not the case materials. They both have the same i5, so I think they have the same mobo, they have similar hdd, they have the same ram, and they have the same energy capacity, E420 48whr, E420S 48.8whr.

So why does Lenovo rate the E420S model at 7 hours, and the basic model E420 at 6 hours. It does not make any sense. This and the addition of the express card and the ability to get a 9 cell battery pushed me to get the basic E420, o and the price difference helps.

So looking at it logically, they should both get the same battery life. My E420 gets a little over 4 hours with settings to adaptive, full screen brightness, and wifi surfing.

I got 6 hours once but I was really being careful, no wifi, brightness between 0 and 8, no video, no games etc...

So the battery life is between 4 and 6 hours.

I play Civilization 5 at Max settings and I can get almost 2 hours, but I don't recommend nor do I usually play games on battery power.

 

Do you have a model with dedicated graphics?

 

I don't have a dedicated GPU, the E420 does not come with one, sorry the max settings was a reference to the battery, I can't imagine playing any game with the battery settings on "max battery," I mean I was playing with the battery settings at "max performance."

The laptop will play Civ 5 with the settings on High, for about 20 minutes, once you start exploring the map it bogs down. I run low and mid settings just fine. Like low shadows, but mid overall graphics and textures, Intel Hd3000 isn't bad.