IBM thinkpads R or A?

[syncmaster108]

Hi, I have ordered R40 2 weeks ago, however, it is in backorder (fortunately, it is in backorder), now I have chance to get even better deal:

1: ThinkPad R40 CEU with 256mb Memory Key, extra Li-Ion Series Battery, extra AC Adapter, and Enhanced Carrying Case, P4 M 1.9G, 256M, 20G DVD/CDRW, 14" 1024*768, 16M ATI RADEON, USD$980

2: ThinkPad R40 GGU with CD-RW/DVD-ROM, 256mb Memory Key, extra Li-Ion Series Battery, extra AC Adapter, and Enhanced Carrying Case, P4 M 2.0G, 256M, 20G, DVD/CDRW, 15" 1024*768, 16M ATI RADEON, USD$1075

3:ThinkPad A31 PRU with 256mb Memory Key, extra Li-Ion Series Battery, extra AC Adapter, and Enhanced Carrying Case, P4 M 2.0G, 256M, 30G, DVD/CDRW, 15" 1024*768, 16M ATI RADEON, USD$1260

4: ThinkPad T30 97U with 256mb Memory Key, extra Li-Ion Series Battery, extra AC Adapter, and Enhanced Carrying Case, P4 M 2.0G, 256M, 60G, DVD/CDRW, 14" 1400*1050, 16M ATI RADEON, USD$1450.

which bundle has the best value? I think first 1 is ok, but 20G sounds too small. What do you think 1024*768? to small?

Thanks!

 

[syncmaster108]

BTW, what's Memory Key?

 

[JZilla]

I would pick 1 or 4, but only because I really like the t-series. I myself have an old R30, which really needs to be replaced, but the quality has been outstanding, it just keeps on running.

Be sure to check out the new Centrino platform, I think they offer it with the R40 and they certainly do in the T40. A cheap Centrino could be the Dell Inspiron 600m.

Also be sure to read as many reviews you can and try before buying. CNet/ZDNet have some decent reviews.

And you can always replace the hd, it's simple and not to expensive. Also try and egt another 256mb ram, this you also can install by yourself and save some $$$ doing so.

The momory key is those USB-drives/pens, that you plug into an USB port and then it acts like a big floppy.

Good luck.

 

[syncmaster108]

so how is the value, is #1 a good deal?

 

[Schadenfroh]

with only 16mb radeon on them the P4 will be so bottlenecked that the CPU speed will not matter. go for the cheapest one they got and IF they have an option for a 32mb geforce4 go upgrade, take it.