X60 tablet minireview/advice

I had been using a Sony VAIO Sz480 and decided to replace it with a THinkpad x60 tablet, since I thought the tablet function would be useful in medicine.

Once the machine arrived, I was hesitant to send the sony back. While I think the build quality is great, I can't get a functional CD/DVD rom on the notebook without spending another $400 for the ultrabase and ultrabay drive. External DVD roms are clunky and require external power sources. The SXGA+ screen is WAY TOO SMALL for a 12.1" screen; I can't use the thing without bumping it down to 1024x768. Plugging into an external monitor during long work hours might work. It weighs more than the sony as well.

My big issue is that the screen seems really, really dim to me, even more dim than most other normal LCD screens. Maybe it is just because the Sony has LED backlights and they spoiled me, but I'm finding it really difficult to use the thinkpad.

Also, what was all the fuss with the keyboard? It has keys and you type on it. Big deal.

I'm not sure which to keep yet. I want to keep the TP, but I just don't know. Any thoughts?

 

At a glance, it looks like the Sony is a significantly more expensive unit, so you would expect some advantages...

Agreed about SXGA+. It's almost too small on a 14-inch, but I've finally gotten used to it. A 12-inch needs XGA.

How does battery life compare between the two? I would think the X60 is saving some power with a dimmer screen, but I don't know if LEDs are some super technology...

You can get a USB DVD drive very cheaply, right?

What do you use it for? The X60 is for office work and super mobility. If you're looking for entertainment, it may not be for you.

Chris

 

I'm in medical school so it's really only for work. The price difference was not that great, maybe $200. Both get 4 hoursish on the battery if I turn the LEDs down.

USB DVD drive still runs about $150 - $200. *shrug* Interestingly, I think the sony is actually *more* mobile than the thinkpad. The only size difference is that the sony is a tad wider, but weighs less and is thinner than the TP. Too bad there isn't a VAIO SZ tablet.

Who knows how often I'll actually use the tablet features since I'm already used to pen and paper.