Reviewing the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1 Gen 1: A Convertible Contender?

The Lenovo ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1 Gen 1 is reviewed as a solid enterprise-grade convertible laptop, featuring a functional chassis and comfortable keyboard and trackpad. It possesses decent internal capabilities and provides good battery life. However, the review notes that the device is expensive for its features, particularly the 1920×1200 IPS display, which is considered weak given the price point. The model is described as a convergence of traditional Lenovo ThinkPad T-series functionality and a creative convertible form factor. It specifically marks the first time such a laptop has been outfitted with a 360-degree hinge and touchscreen display in this line. The specifications include a 14-inch 1920×1200 IPS 60Hz touchscreen, paired with mid-range internals such as an Intel Core Ultra 7 255U, 32GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. This specific configuration is considered a mid-range option. The device carries a high price tag, clocking in at £2370/$2219. This price places it similarly to the super light Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition and the Dell Pro 14 Premium.

In terms of build quality, the ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1 Gen 1 maintains the durable fit and finish characteristic of modern ThinkPads. It uses a combination of aluminum and magnesium for a solid feel. The 360-degree hinge is described as well-engineered and robust. Despite its durable construction, the laptop weighs 1.4kg, which is noted as quite hefty for a compact device, and less portable than some other convertibles. The laptop’s portability, however, is maintained by its compact overall frame, which remains easy to transport in a bag.

Connectivity options are substantial, including a pair of Thunderbolt 4-capable USB-C ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, and an HDMI port on the left side. The right side features two USB-A ports and a Kensington security lock. While the functionality is deemed decent, one point of critique was the lack of an SD card slot for such a pricey machine.

Power and processing features were detailed, including the Intel Core Ultra 7 255U processor. This CPU is noted for its 12-core (split across two Performance, eight Efficiency, and two Low Power Efficiency cores) and 14-thread chip with a boost clock up to 5.2GHz. The system ships with a clean install of Windows 11 Pro, and its only Lenovo-branded software is Lenovo Commercial Vantage, an application useful for checking system utilization and managing power and battery settings.

Regarding battery life, the laptop includes a modest 58Whr capacity cell. While Lenovo provided a target estimate of 17 hours for longevity, the practical battery test using PCMark 10 Modern Office lasted 13 hours and 59 minutes. This duration is reported as sufficient for nearly two working days and surpasses the tested 10-hour target. The charging process utilizes a small 65W USB-C brick, though the speeds are described as middling. It took 40 minutes to charge the laptop to 50%, and a full charge required 85 minutes.

In comparison to rivals, the Dell Pro 14 Premium was cited as offering a lighter chassis, a higher-resolution OLED screen, and better endurance for a similar cost outlay. Furthermore, the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 10 Aura Edition, within the same Lenovo range, was noted for featuring a lighter frame, a similar processor, comparable battery life figures, and a superior 14-inch 2.8K OLED 120Hz screen, available for a slightly higher price point.

Source: Trusted Reviews