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The dumb thing about Lenovo is, you can only get your own customised computer if you configure online. Purchasing from (low cost) retailers means you don't necessarily get what you want (I'm yet to see a T400 with > 4GB RAM, or LED backlit screen from the retailers).
But the good thing about getting one from the retailers is that the computer almost arrives instantly, rather than the insanely long lead + shipping times :( I ordered mine on 15/2 and still no word when it's arriving!
You've been waiting 4 weeks for a laptop?
That's ridiculous!! (the wait time)
I was about to recommend this to a friend until I read your comment!
That's because I ordered the LED backlight screen. It was stated on their website that the delivery timeframe is > 4 weeks.
If you order the usual CCFL screens, there's no 4 week wait.
X200 buyers on whirlpool are tracking their units from Shanghai. Appears they are doing just-in-time management with unit being built to customer spec. Quite impressive, but means a 4-week wait.
Hm…doesn't Dell offer the same thing? But less waiting time (normally)?
Dell's Latitude (same class as Lenovo T series) actually cost a lot more than the Lenovo units. Of course, faster arrival.
What you get is what you pay I guess.
Is it just me or has the prices gone up?
I remember you could configure a base model X200 for around $1200 from previous deals.
AUD to USD has gone down :(
That was a seriously good deal. There was a $1106 X200 deal, and a $1266 X200s deal. Wonder if they will repeat it? Now both are considerably more.
T-series unit pricing is pretty good, when considering they have hybrid graphics and can do up to 10 hours on 9-cell battery (T400 can anyway). Here's what I found on the website:
14.1" Lenovo T400 $1,471.36. P8400 hybrid ATI 3470/X4500
(e-coupon AUEPPDBLDDEAL at http://lenovo.com/au/epp)
15.4" Lenovo T500 $1,659.01 P8400 hybrid ATI 3650/X4500
(e-coupon AUEPPDBLDDEAL at http://lenovo.com/au/epp)
They don't advertise the hybrid graphics but the T500 I specced was 2081cto T500 as per http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?f=45&t=69768 . Worthy double-checking, as is then an incredible balance of performance, build quality, portability (T400), battery life & price. And can customise it.. would recommend the $50 or so LED backlit LCD option for further battery savings.
Apparently there are loads of problems with the hybrid graphics switching, so it's better to go with the GMA X4500 but put more RAM into the machine.
Appears lenovo have ironed out any issues with Hybrid graphics.
http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site.wss/document.do?lndoc…
If needed 3D capability.. games/designer software, then would recommend ATI graphics model.
Just beaware, Lenovo or IBM EPP prices are significant more expensive than what you can get from low cost retailers…