3/5     Anyone have any experience buying a low-end IBM thinkpad?  Are they
        as well-constructed as the high-end models?  Anything I should be
        aware of?
        \_ I've been using an R30 for 2+ years, and so far it's holding
           up well.  I use it a few hours a week at home, and
           take it out for a presentation once every week, so it's not
           very heavy use.  The case, etc. feels very well constructed
           compared to the lower end models of other brands, some of
           which feel really cheap.  OTOH, the price difference between
           the T and R series seemed to have narrowed a little.
           compared to the lower end models of other brands.
        \_ which are low-end?  coworkers and I have been through various
           X and T series thinkpads... the finish tends to wear off
           and you might lose a disk now and then without other parts
           falling off!  after opening/closing the lid on an X22 twice
           a day at home (morning and night email runs), the hinge
           got soft but still worked fine.  one guy seems to destroy
           displays some how.  i fly all the time w/ mine in barely
           padded carryon luggage and have had no problems.
           very heavy use.
           \_ I'm talking about the cheap ends of the R and G-series. -op