Apple MacBook Pro Core 2 Duo Review Discussion

Please see my response above you. I think I answered your questions - again, the current Santa Rosa MBP would not be considered 1st generation hardware (it is essentially the third generation of the MBP).

The answers to the rest of your questions depend on what I asked you above - why are you considering switching to an MBP and OS X? Do you want to use OS X, or are you satisfied with Windows?

I'd say that unless you really want to switch to OS X, a T61 would be a more logical upgrade for you...... especially if you're a business user, as the business warranties and accident protection, etc. Lenovo offers aren't really duplicated by AppleCare (no next day business service, etc.).

-Zadillo

 

That isn't something I've heard, and doesn't seem to be backed up by any of the Lenovo-released ThinkPads. The T61 for example has gotten excellent reviews, and they have actually worked to make it even more durable, etc. (new rollcage design, etc.).

Lenovo does also want to make a dent in the mass market, but they aren't doing that by cheapening the ThinkPad line. Lenovo makes a line of Lenovo-branded laptops that fit that mold; less expensive but still generally solid machines.

Lenovo's strategy with the ThinkPad line is probably to use it to help the Lenovo name itself become more well known. Before acquiring IBM's PC and ThinkPad business, many people wouldn't have known who Lenovo was. They are now able to leverage that to build up their name recognition, etc.

It's not to say something might not change in the future, but if you read any reviews of the latest Lenovo ThinkPads, like the T61 and X61, you'll find that they are continuing to uphold the quality and service ThinkPads are known for.

If that is your only concern, and reason for thinking of a MBP, I would not worry about it. I would get a T61, frankly, as I think you will be more than satisfied with it.

-Zadillo