Should I buy a used Lenovo ThinkPad X280 or T480?

Choosing between a used Lenovo ThinkPad T480 and an X280 comes down to whether you prioritize battery life or portability. Both laptops offer excellent value compared to buying a cheap new laptop, largely because used ThinkPads have exceptional replacement parts availability and durable builds.

Choose the ThinkPad T480 if:
You want maximum battery life. The T480 is renowned for its battery longevity (thanks to its dual-battery system) and generally offers better upgradability, making it ideal for power users who spend long hours away from an outlet.

Choose the ThinkPad X280 if:
You need high portability. The X280 has a smaller, lighter footprint, making it much easier to slip into a backpack for frequent travel or commuting, though it sacrifices some battery life to achieve that slimmer profile.