Authored by Kumara Velu in Computer Hardware
Published on 02-23-2009
Are you looking for a portable but durable laptop to satisfy your computing needs? Lenovo ThinkPad X200 is an option worth considering. If you have experience using the X300 model, you would be glad to learn that X200 is a cut above its predecessor in terms of performance and it comes with a price tag that wouldn’t burn a hole in your pocket.
The model would suit you if you’re always on the go, as it weighs about 1.7kg with the battery included. Durability will also not be an issue as it comes with a thick magnesium alloy finish. That said, ThinkPad X200 packs enough power for your computing needs. It boasts Intel’s Core 2 Duo P8600 processor running at 2.4 GHz. RAM expandability will also leave you satisfied. The X200 supports a maximum capacity of 4GB. Hard Disk comes with a capacity of 160GB, spinning at 7200 rpm. The other features that would meet your expectations are the three USB ports, Ethernet Support, ExpressCard slot and also a SD Card reader.
You may have an issue with the 12.1-inch monitor screen. However, X200 makes up for it with a sharper resolution. You get 1280 x 800 pixels compared to X300’s 1024 x 768. Also, if you’re a movie buff you would appreciate its widescreen format. The screen’s matte finish will minimize glare which seems to be an issue with most LCD screens.
Still you can’t get out your DVD collection to enjoy your favorite movies. ThinkPad X200 comes minus an optical drive. This shouldn’t be a problem if you already own an external optical drive.
If you do a lot of typing, you’ll find the keyboard comfortable on your fingers. Keys come with a vertical spacing of 18.5mm and a horizontal spacing of 18.2mm. Stroke travel is at 2.5mm which is as good as it gets. What’s more, the spill flow feature will lend you peace of mind if you’re fond of consuming drinks while working at your laptop.
If you expect a trackpad to be a given then you’re going to be disappointed. But if you have used ThinkPad laptops before, you won’t complain about the `eraser head’ trackpoint placed somewhere in the middle of the keyboard. If you don’t fancy using it you can always attach a mouse to the laptop.
Despite a few shortfalls, ThinkPad X200 shines in certain areas.
Apart from a biometric fingerprint reader, a winning feature is the ThinkLight. You can locate it above the LCD screen and it comes in handy when you have to type in low-light conditions especially when you’re on the road.
Video conferencing needs will also be taken care of with the built-in webcam. ThinkPad X200 also allows connection to GPS services from such telephone companies as Telus, Verizon and Vodafone, among others.
