15" work notebook

[Voo]

I need a new 15" laptop for work (which basically means programming).

Non debatable requirements: 15"; 1920x1080 res
Other things. Performance is nice, but not paramount (i.e. some ivy bridge i5 dual core is just fine), I don't need a gamer GPU, size and battery life are always nice but I can manage with 4h battery life and a 2.5kg machine. On the other hand a matte screen is a definite plus, same for SSD or at least easily replacable HDD.

Any ideas what would fit those requirements?

 

[kbp]

Take a look at the Lenovo's E530 line on the "egg". I have two E430's and think they are great. I did put in another stick of RAM and Samsung SSD's in both right off the bat. I also have an IdeaPad V570 which is a 15 inch, but for work purposes the "ThinkPad" line I find more suitable.

 

[akugami]

Lenovo T530 or W530. The real Thinkpad line. Granted they aren't as good as the old IBM Thinkpads.

CPU options are limited to dual core on the T530, the W530 has options for quad core CPU's.

If color fidelity is a must (not sure what your job requirements are), then Lenovo W530. If you need a professional graphics card for stuff like CAD, then it'll be the W530.

Starting weight is just under 6lb, or about 2.7kg. Battery options include a standard 6 cell that fits flush, or a larger 9 cell battery that extends out of the back. There's also additional slice battery that can extend battery life, at the cost of size and weight. SSD options available, the DVD drive can be taken out and replaced with an extra HDD. Has USB 3.0 ports and options for adding a LTE 4G from AT&T or T-Mobile.

Expect to pay about $1100 after tax for the T530 with the options you need, more for the W530.


I just ordered the Lenovo Thinkpad T430 a few days ago for about $750'ish after tax.
i5-3210M (Ivy Bridge)
Win7 Pro
14" 1600x900 screen
Nvidia NVS 5400M
4GB RAM*
Fingerprint reader
Webcam
6 cell battery

Should be delivered in about 8 days. One of the major concerns was build quality and keyboard quality. The Thinkpad line isn't what it used to be under IBM but it is still considered one of the best for a business class notebook. I expect to keep this system for a minimum of 3-5 years.

Keyboard is suppose to be excellent for a laptop.

I don't expect any super heavy lifting with this machine, but cpu's today are very powerful and I expect the i5-3210M to be more than up to my needs for the next few years.

*Do not buy their RAM upgrade if you go with the Lenovo. Adding your own RAM does not void warranty and is MUCH cheaper.

 

[Voo]

The thinkpads look like a good deal. As a programmer I can easily live without the best color reproduction, so that's not a problem. Seems like the T line has all I need and while it's certainly not the same as the old IBM line (if that still existed I wouldn't have to ask what notebook to buy..) it seems well built and looks nice.

And yes never buy SSD or RAM upgrades from the manufacturer - looking at their prices you'd think they let fairies grind the stuff from unicorn horns.

 

[akugami]

You getting this system directly through work or paying out of pocket?

If paying out of pocket, use this Barnes & Nobles affiliate link to get a little extra off. Some options are priced differently which is why I had to opt not to get the backlit keyboard which is a $40 option from the Barnes & Noble link.

*EDIT*
The Barnes & Nobles link has no identifying info other than to say that it's from Barnes & Nobles. At least not that I know of. I don't get a kick back or anything extra from it.