Fan noise : T420 vs T420s

I was about to place an order for T420s, and came across the fan noise problem on T420s .
T420s Fan noise Issue - Lenovo Community

I was wondering if anyone could save me some time and help me out.
1) Are there any models of T420s that doesn't have this problem, i5, integrated graphics maybe ?
2) Is the fan problem only on T420s or is it also on T420 ? I don't mind a bit more weight/ size, but I don't want to pay $150 more and get a machine with fan noise.

Thank you.

 

There have been some reports that latest T420s models with latest bios do not have the issue, but it's not conclusive yet.

BUT: There is always TPfanControl and related software, that you just install and forget, and take care of the issue. Everybody uses without any problems and is happy.

 

TPFanControl can manage the T420s's fan under light to moderate CPU but sustained high CPU usage will result in fan noise that is audible in a quiet room. I have noticed modest CPU throttling on my T420s when there is a sustained CPU load both cores and the temperature reaches 95C. This is with the i5-2520M and Intel graphics.

I haven't had my hands on the T420 to be sure, but I would expect that the thicker chassis means that the fan is bigger and, therefore, better able to remove any heat without excessive fuss. If you are planning to do anything that involves sustained heavy CPU / GPU load then the T420 is probably the better choice.

John

 

Thank you. I don't expect sustained high CPU load, as this will be used for software development. However, based on all comments,. I decided to go with cheaper, heavier T420.

 

0xnr: I use my T420s for software development also, and it's just fine using one of the programs that control the fan. Of course, I bought it because I found a deal and it costed just about 100 pounds more than the T420 model.