X220 tablet vs notebook, disadvantages?

At CostCentral they offer different models/types of the X220. For some reason the 4296-2WU model is the cheapest available for $1274

This is the tablet (multitouch) version of the X220. I never considered buying a tablet because I don't really need the extra options a tablet will give me.

But.. being the cheapest one available, the configuration (i5 2520, 4GB, 320GB, BT, FP, camera and IPS) made me think of a reason not to get this tablet and order a (more expensive) notebook version of the X220

Is there any reason not to get a tablet? Only thing I can think of is the rotating screen/hinge construction but this seems to be in order according to the tablet reviews.

 

No USB 3.0 port if this info is still current..

 

a little bit heavier

 

Without having seen one I can't say if this will be true with the X220T, but my X200T (non-multitouch) had a very significant amount of grain from the digitizer layer that tablets have for the pen input. So much so that even though it had the IPS screen, it looked a lot worse than my T400. It was very distracting. Multi-touch adds a lot more grain on top of that.

I also didn't like the single hinge. Not nearly as sturdy as having two like with the notebook. The tablet also has a sharper corner at the front edge which, while not uncomfortable, is less comfortable than the rounded edge of the notebook. The battery life isn't as good either because of the power the digitizer (and probably also multitouch layer) avoidtakes. Also slightly heavier, but this is pretty marginal.

If you don't need tablet functionality avoid it.

 

I don't have the multitouch so I can't comment on the grain, but the hinge - although different - seems pretty good to me (I wouldn't say it's any weaker or stronger than non-tablet version). Even if you don't need a tablet, I like that it can be folded around and used in the tablet mode for watching movies.

 

abachofner,

The graininess of the screen could be an issue for some, but without seeing the units, it's hard to say.

The hinge, while 2 is better than 1, but I don't think it is anything to worry about in terms of long term use and reliability. But keep in mind, I never owned an IBM/Lenovo tablet before. I'm assuming the quality of IBM/Lenovo products is good enough quality and testing, that they would make sure the tablet version can withstand long term use.

I guess the question you need to ask yourself is, what would you use the tablet version for? I currently have the HP TM2, which is also a tablet. This is what I use the multi-touch and tablet for:
1. For my work, I need to draw quick diagrams and pictures sometimes. Useful for sending thru E-mail
2. Playing Plants vs. Zombies. I'll never play this game using a mouse or on one of those iPhones or Android based phones
3. Surfing the net. The screen touch is nice especially when you don't feel like using the mouse. For example, just for typing this response, I scrolled up and down on the web browser to see other people's response really quick. So instead of using the mouse, I just touched the screen. Much more quicker and efficient.

I'm planning to replace my TM2 with the x220t.

Just my $0.02...

 

I respectfully have a different opinion regarding folding the screen into tablet mode to watch movies. The reason is because the viewing angle.

A lot of my coworkers jumped on the iPad craze. Before they bought it, I ask them: What are you going to use it for? Most responses are watch movies and read eBooks. I told them, if that's your main usage or reason for getting it, then don't. They looked at me like I was crazy or something. I told them the reason is because as eBook, the IPS screen is nice, but the screen technology doesn't enable you to read eBooks on those. If you really want to read eBooks with today's technology, get a Kindle or something. The IPS technology will cause eye strain due to the lighting. For movies, it's not really suited for that as well because you need something to prop up the screen. And depending on the table or surface you have the iPad sitting on, you'll want to change the angle so you can look at it comfortabily. Having it flat on the table/surface is not a good viewing experience. Otherwise, you end up like the iPad billboards, where they also show the person with their knee bent, iPad on the lap. I'm not trying to bash iPad here, I'm just pointing out the real world usage for the device. Now, one of them got a Kindle and the other one uses the iPad only in his bathroom, so no more magazines.

So back to your real, I would say, if you fold the screen in tablet mode, you would have the same problem as the iPad, the viewing angle will give you a poor experience.

 

Can you say more about this. While I don't plan on getting the tablet or reading ebooks, my notebook usage is primarily text driven..browsing, writing papers, excel, etc.

The (IPS) display on the X200T did cause me eye strain after about 45min of continuous use, but I was/am fairly sure it was the grain of the digitizer in front of the lcd panel that caused this. One thing I noticed about IPS compared to other Thinkpad lcd's is that by default it's set to a much warmer color temperature. I know that is how it should be for accurate color reporoduction, but I don't like that at all for doing text work (text seems sharper at cooler color temps) and can see why Lenovo sets up TN lcd's as cool as they do. If the X220 IPS panel is set like the the X200T, the first thing I'll do is calibrate it to be much cooler.

Having said that, if IPS itself causes eye strain for reading I'd like to know about this now. The pretty display will be great for pictures and movies but it has to be good for text above everything else (which Thinkpad TN panels have always been great at).

With regard to multi-touch, a big luxury it gives is browsing with it folded and being able to use your fingers to click, and most of all scroll. Scrolling in tablet mode with the pen doesn't work nearly as well as using your fingers. Browsing with multi-touch is so nice it almost makes we want to consider a X220T.

EDIT: I had a S-PVA panel on the X200T, not IPS. Not sure how different they are, but still want to know about potential eye strain with IPS.

 

Well, the E-Ink on Kindle basically tries to simulate the optical quality of text on paper. The differences between any LCD dispaly with back-light would probably be minor. Maybe you can go to a store and take a look at Ipad screens (a reasonable analogue).

 

Depends what kind of books you use I guess. All mine (and my friends') are in PDF format. They work (and look) great on iPad. I had no eye strain on my tablet PVA screen - and I do spend a lot of time staring at it (but not at max brightness of course).

I don't get the viewing angle argument. All IPS have extremely good viewing angles. And yes, I used friend's iPad2 and the screen is really good - in fact in comparison to iPad, kindle (yes, I used it too) looks like a piece of junk from 80ies. Similar goes for other tablet screens on Thinkpads (PVA, AFFS). Whether laptop or tablet mode will work better depends on the situation I guess.

 

My dad has an ipad. I've only looked at it a few times, but it's by far the most beautiful computer screen I've ever seen. The longest I've looked at it is a few minutes so maybe I'll go and try browsing with it for a while and see what happens.

I edited my last post. I had the S-PVA screen in the X200T not the IPS, so don't have any experience with thinkpad ips.

 

We have Few X200 tablet at work and the hinges are fine.
They get used and abused by several different people in the office and there is no sign of failure or breakage.

 

This is the first time I read anywhere that reading text on IPS screens causes more eye strain than a TN. I always heard the opposite.

I'm very interested in the X220t. I'm wondering if Lenovo has implemented a virtual keyboard on it that you can quickly bring up when in tablet mode (to type on the touch screen). Similar to typing on keyboardless tablets like the iPad. Anybody know?

 

I plan on getting the x220 tablet version, just not sure what display, either multitouch or outdoor, even though I hate glossy screens, the contrast advantage and the inner reflectivity of the outdoor-display might be cool to have when sitting on a train trying to read and comment on some PDF.

You future tablet users, what do you use it for? Since this is going to be a work-laptop, I won't watch movies on it. I plan to read PDFs like bachelor thesis, scientific papers etc. and comment/edit them. I also plan to use it for meetings, where I usually print me something out to take it there and take notes etc. --> so less printing in general.

What do you use a tablet convertible for (work/productivity only please)?

 

I've been a hobbyist photographer for the past couple of years, and I've also been learning how to post-process my photos in Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. I'm coming up with very good results and already have a sizable "fan-base" online. I'm eager to take this to the next level by putting more time into it, upgrading my tools, and starting a dedicated website for my photographic art.

I used to work on an old Pentium M laptop, and the aging hardware was becoming a serious bottleneck in my workflow. So I recently built a new desktop computer and bought a Wacom Bamboo tablet, but I faced a big obstacle when I realized that there were absolutely no IPS monitors for sale in my country (Jordan), with the exception of the 27" Apple Cinema Display, which costs $1400 and I couldn't even connect it to my computer since the monitor only has a mini-Displayport input.

So my desktop computer has been getting very little use lately (I have it connected to my 1080p plasma TV, which I found not comfortable or practical for desktop use or photo editing), and I've been contemplating importing an IPS monitor...

Until I learned about the Lenovo X220t. The inclusion of fast processors (Sandy Bridge), IPS display, and most importantly the Wacom digitizer is what made me suddenly very interested in a tablet. It would be like having a Wacom Cintiq, but with much better value for money and more comfort. The prospect of sitting on a comfy couch or beanbag, and editing my photos with the stylus directly on the screen that's resting on my lap is very appealing to me, and I think it will do wonders to my workflow and productivity.

I do have some concerns though:

1) Pressure sensitivity issues with Adobe applications that the X200 and X201 tablets have. I'm doubtful that Lenovo will provide working drivers out of the gate.

2) Inability to accurately calibrate the digitizer. Again a common complain from previous tablet users.

3) The screen grain. I'm not sure how bad it would be and if it would bother me or not. And I don't know which option would have less of (multi-touch or pen only).

 

Lenovo ThinkPad X220 Tablet (X220T) Laptop review - Trusted Reviews

Look like the screen is pretty good, maybe double check with the user from the youtube. I really hope they solve the graininess issue.

 

So to summarize everything, the IPS display on the x220 has sucky viewing angles what will result in poor experience and eye strain.

So no can do in watching movies eh because you said IPS sucks? lol

Elaborate yourself

 

Wow...I guess my comments needs some more clarification.

Firstly, I did not mean that IPS display quality is sucks. My point is that the technology is not meant for reading eBooks. The light emitted from the display is not good for long term viewing. For computer monitors and laptops, the viewing distance is going to be farther than what most people uses their iPads-type devices. Let's take a look at how most peope use their computer monitors, mounted on the stand that it comes with or a extendable arm stand that swings. Then between the monitor and the end-user, there's the keyboard and mouse. Then the keyboard is position a bit away from you so you can type. There's some people that has the keyboard tray, then in this case there's generally random stuff people have on their desk. Most people have larger monitors at home. So I bet all these people that has these larger monitors are going to position them far enough so it is easy for them to see the screen without having to turn their heads. What I'm getting at is that computer monitors are position farther than an iPad-like device would, with respect to your eyes. And since it is placed further, the light emitted from the computer monitors has more distance to disperse. So in general, it has lower probability of causing eye strain. For devices such as an iPad, these displays are typically close to your eyes because they are smaller than your average monitors. And when reading books, the text is generally black with white background. The high to low frequency color spectrum, combined with the backlighting of the IPS technology cause your eyes to strain. Now, I do agree that some people staring at backlitted panels causes no eye strain. Sure, you can adjust the screen brightness, but the fundamental issue from the technology is still there. Think about how you would use your x220t or iPad-like devices to read eBooks for a sec. Again, if you look at those Apple iPad bill boards, the people are on a comfy chair or couch, knees bent, iPad rested on the lap and hand holding it. So based on your own body dimensions, how close is that to your eyes?

Now, for my viewing angle comment. Let's look at this picture first:

For IPS technology, the viewing angles for both A and B above are superior than current display technologies that widely available out there on the market. Regardless of your different viewing angles, you can be sure the image and the colors will look great. I'm not saying all IPS panels ever manufactured are like this, but most are. So when my comment on viewing angle is not about this scenario.

What I meant about viewing angle is about this scenario:

In this scenario, what most people really want is the top picture. The screen is at directly orthongonal in front your eyes. So whatever it is that you're watching, the screen is at the right angle with respect to your eyes. Where as, the picture on the bottom, the display is flat on the table, so in this case, your field of view is skewed between the top and bottom of the screen. An analogy that I would pull is going watching movies at the theater. You don't want to sit in the front rows because your viewing angle is bad, besides the fact that your neck will be sore. And for some, you want to sit too high up in the seats (assuming your theater has stadium-style seating) otherwise, you'll end up with the opposite issue. The iPad2, Apple introduced that cool magnetic cover that also acts as a prop for your iPad2 so you don't end up with iPad2 flat on the table.

Hope this clears up my previous statement.

 

One. Suitability for long-term viewing is relative. Looking at printed matter on paper also causes eye-strain --- compared to looking at trees.

Two. This thread is about X220t, not about iPad. With X220t, you can choose whether to fold the screen back into "tablet mode" depending on the circumstances. There is this magical mechanism called "hinge" that can hold up the screen even when you leave the laptop on a flat table.

With all due respect, I think your opinion about iPad (whether it is right or wrong) belongs to an Apple forum, not here.

 

Sorry to interject, but while his opinion may belong to the Apple Forum, but that does not detract anything from the logic that he is offering. Indeed, I think some good has already come of it - you mentioned that tablet version of the X220 (and presumably this feature was available in its previous iterations) uses the hinge to be able to prop up the screen even when it is laid flat on the table. Personally, I did not know that and to me that is valuable information. That it came in response to the detailed post on viewing angles, makes both your information and his explanation valuable...to me.

Don't you think?

Again, apologies for the interjection.

 

I agree that by the angle you show, iPad does not work will. However that is not how people uses it. Lots of people use the iPad on their bed or on the coach, usually the iPad is angled by user's knee or angles by something else. For those people that does not angle the iPad with the their knee or other foreign object, they hold the device up with their hand to an angle. Also I rarely, if ever, see people lay their iPad flat on the tabletop.

Luckily as you mention apple has introduce the smartcover for the iPad 2.

Secondly you mention that eyestrain for using the LCD panel as an reading device. I think generally your statement is true, however if you lower the brightness level and taken into the account that normally people can look at the screen for a few hours without have any effects, by that time people will likely take a break from the screen by eating lunch or going to the restroom.

 

Yes, I agree. For some people, eye-strain can be occur even reading printed material

The reason why I used iPad as the example is because of unreal25's comment on post #5 on page 1 of this thread. I did not mean to detract the focus of this thread. I was only trying to point out the capability and the practical usability of the x220t in tablet mode in such a situation.

 

Yeah, sure, it depends on usage and environmental conditions, such as lighting conditions. In the case of eBook readers, you can't reall read them in non-well lit conditions, that's just a limitation of eInk.

 

abachofner,

Did you figure out which x220 version you'll be getting?

I'll be getting the x220t version for myself. For me at least, the reason for getting the x220t instead of x220 is the inking capability. I need a pen to draw stuff. The multi-touch is really nice as well, but to be honest, I don't use it unles I'm surfing the next and I'm toooooo lazy to scroll with the mouse or keyboard.

I myself will be waiting for a good coupon!! Then that'll bring the price of the x220t. As always, Lenovo has coupons. But then I'll just have to wait...and I hate waiting.

 

One comment on the book reading on LCDs vs eInks - I had a Sony ebook reader, then bought the iPad. I normally read for a couple of hours in bed before going to sleep - well, with the iPad my eyes would get tired, but then I would not be able to fall asleep after staring into a bright screen in a dark room. I don't think it has anything to do with IPS vs TN, just any backlit screen that shines right into your eyes.

Not to mention that iPad at 1.5 lbs was a bit heavy to hold without being propped up for longer periods, so I couldn't use it like a regular book or my Sony. I would think that reading on the X220 would be that much more limited, with its weight. I ended up getting the Kindle, and couldn't be happier.

On the other hand, there are a lot of people that are not bothered by the LCD, and prefer it over eInk for reading. Just wanted to share my experience.

Polbit

 

I will wait until the 19th, the official release of the X220(t), and decide based on the different configuration options and prices of the X220(t) Mind you, living in the Netherlands, options are rather limited..

 

Options are rather limited? Does Lenovo offer different options of their laptops there? I guess I don't understand what you mean by limited.

Only a couple more days to wait!! Woohoo!

 

If it's the same as in Poland, CTO versions are not available. Preconfigured options are indeed quite limited.


M.

 

i think that is a really good price for the X220 tablet. Could it be a price error? I wish I can order that here from Canada but CostCentral apparently doesn't accept international orders

 

If it is an error, then error in our favor.

 

got a question regarding tablet mode: Is there any way to use the context menu when in tablet mode and using the stylo? I ask because many things in many programs can't be done withouth the context menu...

 

Going back to the beginning of the thread, anyone who actually owns the tablet X220 able to confirm the screen quality (graininess issues, etc.)?

Also, how heavy and bulky does the thing feel in your hands?


Re: Ipad viewing angles. The main advantage of the iPad for watching movies is that you can hold it in your hands in a variety of positions away from your desk. If you're going to sit properly and watch a movie or some other activity at a desk, you might as well do it on an external monitor, though any decent case/stand will solve the viewing angle problem if you need to use it on a desktop. For the X220, I'd want to know how it feels (a combination of weight AND bulk) in your hands for the same use.

 

I'm fairly certain nobody has received a tablet yet... in Germany I can't even order one yet!

If you check out this review though, it demonstrates very nicely how grainy the non-gorilla glass option (multitouch!) really is! Look at this image - for me this would be unacceptable which is why I want to order the gorilla glass/outdoor viewable version!


Source: http://www.tabletpcreview.com

 

I wonder whether such pic shows the reality. I mean it's difficult to render screen quality on a picture. If you look on youtube, there is a video (in german) that compares the X220 (non tablet) with IPS display and the X201t with outdoor screen. The X220 sometimes appears dimmer than the other one (it is because the outdoor screen was 400nit) especially at some angle with some reflections on the screen. The X220 laptop has no multitouch yet it appears like this sometimes (not as bad as this pic of the X220t though). It seems that some of the "haziness" that we see on pictures might simply be due to the screen having a matte finish. I wouldn't deduce the screen is bad because of that pic only. But your correct the gorilla glass can only be better!

 

Actually look at this video (your probably know it):
YouTube - Lenovo Unboxed: ThinkPad X220t tablet
This is the X220T with Gorilla Glass. Watch at around 11 minutes and see how reflective the screen is. I guess this might also be an issue with Gorilla glass no?

 

someone received their's already 3 days ago:

X220T First Impressions

 

Long press with the stylus, as you're pressing down a circle starts to form around it. When the circle completes, the context menu opens. You can also custimize which side of the cursor menus appear based on if you're left handed or right handed in the tablet control panel.

A note for those considering it: Just be aware it is a bigger laptop than the X220, in all dimensions pretty much.