Retail availability

[dz]

I feel very frustrated / stupid over this. I *want* to buy a Thinkpad T series (4 of them, actually), but I would like to put my hands on one, use it, feel it, etc. before doing that. I'd also like to look at a few of the major differences (screen size, resolution) before buying.

In short, I want to walk into a retail store, and look at a few models. I live in the SF Bay Area (i.e. Silicon Valley), but am having a hell-of-a time finding such a place. Surely I'm overlooking something -- for my Mac, I knew what to do -- go to an Apple store. Of course this is a deliberate consumer experience. For work, I'd like to at least start by evaluating the different models. Staples, Fry's, OfficeDepot -- none carry the Thinkpads in their retail stores.

Calling IBM led to a list of VARs who either want to sell me dental office software or mid-size mini computers & IT consulting. I just want to buy 4 machines for a very small technology company. Same results with searching the web site (when I could make it work).

Any thoughts? Who can I call? Thanks in advance!

[admsteiner]

I don't know if you have a J&R out by you, but the ones here (in NYC) have thinkpads...

--adam

PS: You'll love 'em

[dfumento]

RCS computer experience in Manhatten.

It would help if you told people where you are.

[dz]

As my posting says, I'm in the San Francisco Bay Area (Redwood City to be precise).

[BillMorrow]

i have a customer near redwood city who:
is a dentist..
has a thinkpad..
runs his dental office on PC's..
and
i'm sure he would be happy to show you his thinkpad..

send me an email if you want an introduction..

[mattfromomaha]

IBM does have a 30 day return policy, which IMO is better than a retail store....it's like a 30 day test drive to see how well it really holds up.