Thinkpad X or T?

Here are a few opinions:

1. X models range from 12.5" to 14", while T models are available in 14" and 15.6" versions. It really depends on your work schedule and work environment: Are you going to use the ThinkPad on-the-go, or will you be working primarily from a well-lit office? Is Excel the only office program you'll be using - what about document-writing or visual presentations?

2. Personally, I would opt for a 14" screen for Excel chiefly because of the 16:9 ratio used in modern laptops. I have a ThinkPad T61 with a 14" screen but it's a 4:3 ratio and that gives me a more useable work area compared with my 15.6" IdeaPad Y50, especially for Excel-style data processing. The 16:9 ratio in the Y50 is great for entertainment and web-browsing but it 'crops' a large part of the bottom screen. This means that the Y50 appears to have a smaller work area despite clearly being the larger laptop. (I hope this makes some sense - it's a bit difficult to explain).

3. X models are generally more expensive because they are designed to be light and last 12+ hours. T models are typically heavier but also more upgradable. The most recent 12.5" X280 is a great-looking device with great portability, and the 14" X1 Carbon is pretty much legendary by now - and also very expensive! If money is no object, then get the 14" X1 Carbon. Otherwise, I think you'd ultimately be better off with a 14" T model - not least financially.

Cheers,
GreyCatz.