How Lenovo x200(x61) tablet is so great for programming? whats up with so low GHz processors for debugging?

Question

for best laptop for programming after reading here looks like its Mac vs Lenovo (tablet, because tablet is only why I would choose it over Mac). I do crave that tablet but low speed processor scares me. Intel Core i5 or i7 in Sony Vaio sounds more attractive (2,26 - 3GHz for lower price). Yes, Lenovo can be fast, like x201, but with good specifications its over $2,000 its a little too much.

For a lot of development I just don't want to wait every time while program compiles and builds during debugging. I want it fairly fast and smooth. Can anyone advice their experience with Lenovo's tablets?

Answer 1

I've been using my Lenovo X61 tablet for programming for months, it's great.

The only downside is that using both the cores at full speed will overheat and thus shutdown the laptop. This is especially true if the laptop is on any sort of insulating surface like fabric rather than a flat surface that allows heat to escape from the bottom of the tablet.

Answer 2

Quite simply the thinkpad is a tool, and designed as one. They pretty much have PERFECT keyboards, and tend to last for a very long time, and have little touches that one can appreciate (newer models have spill resistant keyboards for one, and they tend to be incredibly tough for a non ruggadised laptop)

They also, critically come with almost no crud installed, and all of it is easily removable.

I'd suggest waiting a little tho - there's a new model around the corner, and you may be able to get that, or the older ones a little cheaper.

Answer 3

I have several desktop/laptops one of which is a ThinkPad SL510 which is their bottom line. With an SSD in the thing It is extremely fast. I think you'll be fine. The latest X series have IPS displays so that creates their premium price.

Answer 4

I am still using the predecessor model X41 tablet with some 1.6 GHz and 512 RAM.

The X series are "ultraportable", have an ABS plastic or Magnesium cover as opposed to the cheap ThinkPads with less sturdy covers. The keyboard layout is optimal for me, especially with PageUp PageDown near the arrows, which is a HUGE point plus vs. programming on a Mac.

Never ran into problems with cooling, the management software can be set up flexibly to lower the core frequency, or run the fan full speed. Of course with hot summer on a direct sun this is a no go.

The tablet is a nice feature, it is pressure sensitive = i.e. you can draw thick and thin lines by varying pressure or tilt. This is not standard with cheaper models.

The initial cost is high for a new device. Therefore I recommend investing into a used X60 or X61 with plenty of RAM. There are even some available starting from 600$ (09/2011).

OS choice also does have a significant impact on the overall speed (starting, running programs, latency, disk writes, etc.). Excellent support of Linux with a community of hackers and detailed info about the hardware can be found on ThinkWiki

X series Lenovo laptops are built to last, being spilled on, dropped, misused and carried around. The keywords here are portability and durability.