Zoom, zoom, zoom with an A22p
Written: Jul 20 '01 (Updated Sep 07 '01)
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Pros: Keyboard, screen, CD-RW, Ethernet and modem built in, speed, and IBM legendary customer service
Cons: slightly on the weighty side at 7.7 pounds, screen resolution might be problematic for some
The Bottom Line: Whether you want a desktop replacement or a quality notebook, this puppy rocks the house!
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| PolishWonder's Full Review: Lenovo ThinkPad A22p 2629 (2629UTF) PC Notebook |
I've owned a few notebook computers. In fact, my first was a speed burning 386 sx 20 -- yep, it was a speedster!
Recently, I bought an IBM Thinkpad A22p. I hemmed and hawed on going IBM, and then had to think about the A22p vs. a T22. In fact, I'm still hemming on that one!
In my office I have a sweet system with a 17.4' VG175 Viewsonic LCD, so I did not need a desktop replacement. Instead, I needed to be able to run the same programs on something portable. Well, the short of this review is that A22p offers the same darn power as most desktops and would likely spank many desktops out there!
The computer itself is housed in a relatively sleek and attractive case. Apple holds the title for design, but I think IBM places second slightly ahead of Sony. While the computer will measure up to 1.7" thick, the overall design is more deceiving and looks sleeker. I particularly liked the fact that the case WAS NOT boxy!
The keyboard is very responsive. The keys are well spaced, and the touch is light. My only complaint centers around the fact that the "Function" key is located where you would typically have your control key. This has taken some getting used to. Please note that while there is no Windows key, you can easily access the start menu by pressing control and escape.
The touch stick took some getting used to for me. I previously used a touchpad and was very comfortable with it. I've slowly found myself becoming more accustomed to using the stick, and think it works great. There are three buttons to go with the stick. Right and left click, and then a quasi scroll button. Typical functions for multi button mouses like forward and backward on a Web page can be accomplished by using the Alt key and the arrows.
The computer is exceptionally fast. It loads quickly and responsively. I opted for Windows 2000, and would strongly encourage you to do the same. The computer comes with plenty of utility software. In fact, there is even a special button to launch IBM's own Thinkpad utility system -- nice touch.
I bought the 2629 UTU, which came with a 32 GB drive, 128 MB ram, a CD-RW, Ethernet and a modem built in, and a 15 inch screen. The screen resolution is 1600 by 1200. The screen is bright, too. The high resolution results in finer text, which is typically crisp. A special feature is a built in keyboard light on the top of the display. This light is an led and is discreetly hidden. There is also a camera mount on top.
Sound performance is surprisingly good. As far as laptop speakers go, the Thinkpad has the best. The system will also easily drive external speakers.
All in all, I believe this might be the best option out there. My dilemma, even right now, is whether I would prefer a lighter computer. This one weighs in at 7.7 pounds. The T22 is around 5.4 pounds. But I should note that the A22p's weight is not that alarming when compared with a Dell 8000, or other similar notebook.
Update August 09, 2001- Ok, I've had this beauty for almost 1 full month. Major pluses... Speed, speed, speed. The keyboard is extremely quiet, and VERY responsive. I really like the key feel. The LED night light that illuminates the keyboard is a nice touch, too. Battery life is AMAZING! I've used this computer for several tasks that required me to do standard word processing while untethered to power outlets. During a typical setting where I need to take notes I've not had a problem using it for over 5 hours. In fact, I've not had a situation where I've run out yet -- but note that these are under low power drain circumstances, and I optimize my battery life by reducing the screen brightness.
Online support and interactive support built into the machine are definite pluses. Hard drive speed and space (32 GB 5400 RPM).
Moderate annoyances... Weight. It's not too heavy, but 7 pounds is still 7 pounds. If I had a need for CONSTANT mobility during travel, I would definitely opt for the T23 by IBM. You'll save ~2 pounds. Sound is not too bad, especially for a laptop. One USB port, no built in wireless system for 802.11. Placing the function key where the control key should be. Screen size is great, but the naitive resolution is troublesome. It is just too fine and it can wear on your eyes.
Big misses by IBM - not many that come to mind. The biggest one for me would be no firewire. This is a much better option than USB for the long haul, and it would have been nice having it. In fact, I'd trade the two SVGA ports on the right side for 2 firewire ports any day! A windows key would be nice, but you can work around that by using control and escape. A key short cut for Explorer would be to add it to your start menu and then access it with the ctrl+esc option. Customer service has failed miserably in addressing a billing error. Rumor has it that it will be resolved, but so far, no luck.
All in all, this machine has made me an IBM Thinkpad fan. The workmanship on the computer is amazing. I think I prefer the track point to a track pad. It took some getting used to, but I like it more and more each day. IBM also packed in some nice privacy and security features.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 2650
Operating System: Windows
Processor: Intel Pentium III
Processor speed: over 1000
Screen Size: 15
RAM: 128
Internal Storage: CD-RW
Hard Drive (GB): 31-40
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Epinions.com ID:
PolishWonder
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Member: Jonathan Franklin
Location: Miami, Florida
Reviews written: 20
Trusted by: 1 member
About Me:
I'm diagnosed with techno-itis, with a compounding gadget-itis sub-issue.
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