Thinkpad Z60
So. I finally stumbled upon a ThinkPad Z60 on display. My initial impression is unfortunately somewhat negative. It is the most flimsy feeling ThinkPad ever.
If there is one thing that strikes the user of a ThinkPad is the bulletproof nature of the construction. It may not even be as rugged as it feels, but it feels solid in the users hands. The screen hinges solidly, the case doesn’t flex and when it’s closed – it’s a brick.
The Z60 lacks these attributes. The whole chassis flexes; the new ThinkPad, volume and power buttons seem crude, uninspired and cheap. Speed is fine and it has the right looks. It actually looks much better than I expected (if you can avert your eyes from those buttons). The price is nice, but it does not feel like a ThinkPad. Over time, the plastic pieces on my ThinkPad have suffered, but overall, the units are extremely durable.
I have yet to see the new X or T60s to see where the design of the higher end laptops has gone. I hope that the ThinkPad can still be my laptop of choice, but I have to admit I don’t think I would buy a Z60. It’s not the laptop for me.