Man, I want to get a Framework, but I'm held back by the lack of trackpoint. Yes, I know it's not going to happen officially, but I just can't see myself using a laptop without one. So, until someone figures out some mod or 3rd-party part I'm sticking with Thinkpads.
Dell Precision used to have track points. Now the only holdout is Thinkpad. I sometimes wonder how much the track point itself keeps that product line successful.
That being said, thinkpads are almost as upgradeable as frameworks. The latest t14 received a better score from ifixit than framework for repairability (first ever to get a 10).
I'd bet a bunch of money that it's barely used anymore.
Only benefit of trackpoint nowadays is that you don't move your hand. Otherwise, it's all downsides compared to modern trackpads, especially haptic ones like here. It's less precise, less ergonomic. Nowadays I'd rather move my hand a few centimeters off, than put regular strain on my forearm and struggle being precise with the pointer.
And most thinkpad users, employees of big companies, don't care at all about the trackpoint. I'm pretty sure it's only kept for the thinkpad brand and to keep the vocal minority of us geeks pleased.
I can tell you I use the mouse on my Thinkpad far more than on any other device I've used, all because it's frictionless and doesn't require me to move my hand.
I do too. But I'm starting to get some pain in my index finger, so I think it's probably time for me to move on. I hear Framework is shipping to my country now...
I agree the discomfort, or after a while, even the pain when using the trackpoint, is something very noticeable on modern thinkpads. I don't recall being this annoyed with the older thinkpads like T61, x200 and all. Or maybe we are just getting old and more fragile haha
> The latest t14 received a better score from ifixit than framework for repairability (first ever to get a 10).
Hm, I wish they had scores for the X230 and older; I'd like to see how they compare. IMO they're better, if nothing else because you can replace RAM, SSD and battery without unscrewing the entire bottom.
I don't think the difference between half the bottom and entire bottom would make a difference according to ifix it. It's more about:
1. Is it possible
2. Is it documented
3. Do you need proprietary parts
4. Without solder
