IBM ThinkPad X40 (Pentium M, 1.00GHz, 256MB, 20GB) review

What you need to know

Reviewed by: Xiao Ming Wu

Reviewed on: 2 March 2004

Tags: IBM, IBM ThinkPad X40 (Pentium M, 1.00GHz, 256MB, 20GB), performance, microphone, battery life

We like:

Light; modular design; excellent performance; long battery life

We don't like:

Pricey; no FireWire; no integrated optical drive; no touchpad

CNET UK judgement:

Business travellers who like to travel light should definitely consider IBM's silky smooth Thinkpad X40

Full review:

The sad truth about small laptops is that shaving off size and weight typically means sacrificing performance and features. The IBM ThinkPad X40 is an exception. At a mere 1.2kg -- IBM's smallest laptop ever -- it combines true ultralight portability with all the right expansion, connectivity, and battery options for the business traveller. It's much sleeker than IBM's other ultraportable, the ThinkPad X31. The ThinkPad X40 lacks an integrated optical drive, but its powered USB port makes it easy to add one, or you could add one via the media slice. Unfortunately, the X40 doesn't include a FireWire port. And despite its full-size keyboard, it may be cramped for some, especially if you have large hands. Continue Reading...