Tablet Review: Lenovo X61

Preston Chase, Residential Appraiser

I cannot say enough about the X61 Thinkpad Tablet, not only has it proved to be a top performing lightweight tablet but it is much cheaper than competing models.

At first I thought smaller would be better as it would be lighter and easier to tote so I tried a UMPC, but I have found that this model of tablet allows me to rest the unit on my fore arm and hand instead of bearing all of the weight on my hand. I was concerned about it being bulky and difficult to carry while measuring and inspecting; it is not, I think that this is the perfect compromise in size. The available "Tablet Sleeve" is essentially a bump case and straps comfortably to my hand, I am able to manipulate my Disto and manage rough terrain with ease.

The standard "Super View Screen" is visible in direct sunlight and comparable to the motion "view anywhere" (Please note the available option for the Multi Touch Screen is inferior for out door viewing). The 12 inch screen is easy to read with an amazing 1400 x 1050 resolution. I have never had trouble viewing the screen indoors or out. Where most other hardware companies charge you extra for the outdoor screen Lenovo offers it as the standard for no additional cost. The screen will auto or manually rotate so whether you prefer to use it in Landscape or Portrait mode it works both ways.

In addition to using DaVinci Mobile Pro on this tablet I also have a full functioning copy of WinTOTAL installed, both work great. Since the X61 is as powerful as many desktops I have all of my other programs installed and operational. I continue to be surprised at how fast this tablet runs even the most intensive programs. In addition the built-in microphone works great.

I turn on my tablet in the morning and then put it into sleep mode, once arriving on my inspection a quick swipe of my fingerprint wakes up the tablet and it is ready to operate in less than 5 seconds. I keep the unit in sleep mode only waking it to do my inspections throughout the day, even with 5 or more inspections a day I rarely have to recharge on the go. I mostly use this tablet as a Slate Type tablet but it is nice to know that if I need to do some intensive typing I can open it up and type away.

The only downfall I have experienced (as have others) is that the outdoor screen smudges very easily, it is more noticeable when the unit is shut off then on and never hinders my work but is annoying as I have to clean the screen 2-3 times a week.

I highly recommend the X61. The X61 is not only a Great tablet for field work but is more than capable of replacing your current laptop as well.

Must Have Options:

• Extended 8 Cell Battery
• Tablet Sleeve
• Upgrade your Ram to at least 2 GB

Options to Consider:

• Bluetooth option for Disto, head set, GPS etc...
• Spare charger and power inverter for your vehicle.
• Spare Digitizer Pen.