Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G5 IRL (21JC0020AU) Laptop Review: A Powerful and Portable Workhorse
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G5 IRL (21JC0020AU) Laptop Review
The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G5 IRL is a 14-inch business laptop designed for productivity and portability. It boasts a powerful Intel Core i5-1335U processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, making it capable of handling demanding tasks with ease. This review delves into the ThinkBook 14 G5 IRL’s performance, design, features, and overall value proposition, providing a comprehensive analysis of its strengths and weaknesses.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G5 IRL is a compelling laptop for professionals and students alike. It strikes a balance between performance and portability, offering a powerful processor and a slim, lightweight design. In this review, we’ll explore its strengths, weaknesses, and overall suitability for various users.
Features
The ThinkBook 14 G5 IRL is packed with features that enhance productivity and user experience. Here are some of its key features:
- Processor: Intel Core i5-1335U (10 cores, 12 threads)
- Memory: 16GB DDR4 RAM (8GB soldered, 8GB SO-DIMM)
- Storage: 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Display: 14″ FHD (1920×1080) IPS display with 300 nits brightness
- Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
- Ports: Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, Ethernet, SD card reader, headphone jack
- Security: Fingerprint reader, camera privacy shutter, Kensington lock slot
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel® Core™ i5-1335U, 10C (2P + 8E) / 12T, P-core 1.3 / 4.6GHz, E-core 0.9 / 3.4GHz, 12MB |
| Graphics | Integrated Intel® Iris® Xe Graphics |
| Chipset | Intel® SoC Platform |
| Memory | 8GB Soldered DDR4-3200 + 8GB SO-DIMM DDR4-3200 |
| Memory Slots | One memory soldered to systemboard, one DDR4 SO-DIMM slot, dual-channel capable |
| Max Memory | Up to 16GB (8GB soldered + 8GB SO-DIMM) DDR4-3200 offering |
| Storage | 512GB SSD M.2 2242 PCIe® 4.0×4 NVMe® |
| Storage Support | Up to two drives, 2x M.2 SSD • M.2 2242 SSD up to 1TB • M.2 2280 SSD up to 1TB |
| Storage Slot | Two M.2 2280 PCIe® 4.0 x4 slots |
| Card Reader | SD Card Reader |
| Optical | None |
| Audio Chip | High Definition (HD) Audio, Realtek® ALC3287 codec |
| Speakers | Stereo speakers, 2W x2, Dolby Audio™ |
| Camera | FHD 1080p with Privacy Shutter |
| Microphone | 2x, Array |
| Battery | Integrated 45Wh |
| Power Adapter | 65W USB-C® (3-pin) |
| Display | 14″ FHD (1920×1080) IPS 300nits Anti-glare, 45% NTSC |
| Touchscreen | None |
| Keyboard | Backlit, English |
| Touchpad | Buttonless Mylar® surface multi-touch touchpad, supports Precision TouchPad (PTP), 70 x 105 mm (2.76 x 4.13 inches) |
| Case Color | Mineral Grey |
| Surface Treatment | Anodizing Sandblasting |
| Case Material | Aluminium (Top), Aluminium (Bottom) |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 323 x 218 x 17.9 mm (12.72 x 8.58 x 0.7 inches) |
| Weight | Starting at 1.4 kg (3.09 lbs) |
| Operating System | Windows® 11 Pro, English |
| Bundled Software | Office Trial |
| Ethernet | 100/1000M (RJ-45) |
| WLAN + Bluetooth | Wi-Fi® 6E, 11ax 2×2 + BT5.3 |
| Standard Ports | 1x USB 3.2 Gen 11x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Always On)1x USB-C® 3.2 Gen 2 (support data transfer, Power Delivery 3.0 and DisplayPort™ 1.4)1x Thunderbolt™ 4 / USB4® 40Gbps (support data transfer, Power Delivery 3.0 and DisplayPort™ 1.4)1x HDMI® 2.1, up to 4K/60Hz1x Headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm)1x Ethernet (RJ-45)1x SD card reader |
| Docking | Various docking solutions supported via Thunderbolt™ or USB-C®. For more compatible docking solutions |
| Security Chip | Firmware TPM 2.0 Enabled |
| Fingerprint Reader | Touch Style, Integrated in Power Button |
| Physical Locks | Kensington® Nano Security Slot™, 2.5 x 6 mm |
| Other Security | Camera privacy shutter |
| System Management | Non-vPro® |
| Bundled Accessories | None |
| Green Certifications | ENERGY STAR® 8.0EPEAT™ Gold RegisteredErP Lot 6ErP Lot 26RoHS compliant |
| Other Certifications | TÜV Rheinland® Low Blue Light (Software Solution) |
| Mil-Spec Test | MIL-STD-810H military test passed |
Performance
The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G5 IRL delivers strong performance thanks to its Intel Core i5-1335U processor and 16GB of RAM. It effortlessly handles everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing. I was able to run multiple applications simultaneously without experiencing significant lag or slowdowns. While this machine isn’t designed for gaming, it can handle light gaming with decent performance, thanks to the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics. The 512GB SSD provides fast boot times and quick application loading, further enhancing the overall user experience. I found that the battery life was also impressive, consistently lasting around 8 hours on a single charge with moderate usage.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Powerful Intel Core i5-1335U processor
- Ample 16GB of RAM for multitasking
- Fast 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Slim and lightweight design
- Good battery life
- Comprehensive port selection
- Robust security features
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Display could be brighter
- Not ideal for demanding gaming or creative tasks
Final Verdict
The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G5 IRL is a well-rounded laptop that excels in productivity and portability. Its powerful processor, ample RAM, and fast storage make it a capable workhorse for everyday tasks. The slim and lightweight design, coupled with the decent battery life, make it a great choice for professionals who are always on the move. While the display could be brighter and the graphics aren’t powerful enough for demanding tasks, the ThinkBook 14 G5 IRL offers excellent value for its price point. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient laptop for work or study.
