Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 (21JK009AGR) Review: A Solid Workhorse with 13th Gen Power
Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 (21JK009AGR) Review: A Solid Workhorse with 13th Gen Power
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is a solid business laptop that offers a balance of performance, durability, and affordability. Powered by Intel’s 13th generation Core i7 processor and featuring a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce MX550 graphics card, this laptop is capable of handling everyday tasks, light gaming, and demanding productivity applications.
Key Features
The ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is packed with features that make it a compelling option for both professionals and students. Some of the key highlights include:
* **Intel Core i7-1355U Processor:** This powerful processor delivers ample performance for multitasking, productivity apps, and light gaming.
* **NVIDIA GeForce MX550 Graphics:** The dedicated graphics card enhances visual performance, making the laptop suitable for casual gaming and demanding applications.
* **14″ WUXGA Display:** The crisp and vibrant display provides a comfortable viewing experience for extended work sessions.
* **8GB RAM and 512GB SSD:** The ample RAM and fast SSD ensure smooth and responsive performance.
* **Durable Design:** Built with a robust chassis, the laptop is designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use.
* **Backlit Keyboard:** The backlit keyboard allows you to work comfortably in low-light environments.
* **Extensive Connectivity Options:** The laptop offers a range of ports for connecting peripherals and displays.
Performance Evaluation
In our tests, the Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 consistently delivered solid performance. The 13th Gen Core i7 processor handled multitasking and demanding productivity applications with ease. The dedicated NVIDIA GeForce MX550 graphics card allowed us to play light games smoothly at acceptable settings. The 8GB RAM and 512GB SSD ensured quick boot times and snappy application loading.
The 14″ WUXGA display provided a clear and vibrant viewing experience. The screen’s anti-glare coating minimized reflections, making it ideal for working both indoors and outdoors.
Pros & Cons
**Pros:**
* Powerful Intel Core i7 processor
* Dedicated NVIDIA GeForce MX550 graphics card
* Crisp 14″ WUXGA display
* Durable and reliable design
* Backlit keyboard
* Extensive connectivity options
**Cons:**
* Limited RAM upgradeability (up to 40GB)
* No card reader
* No optical drive
Final Verdict
The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and well-rounded laptop. Its powerful processor, dedicated graphics card, and durable design make it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from everyday productivity to light gaming. While some may find the limited RAM upgradeability and lack of certain features a drawback, the laptop’s overall performance and value for money make it a compelling option.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel® Core™ i7-1355U, 10C (2P + 8E) / 12T, P-core 1.7 / 5.0GHz, E-core 1.2 / 3.7GHz, 12MB |
| Graphics | NVIDIA® GeForce MX550 2GB GDDR6 |
| Chipset | Intel® SoC Platform |
| Memory | 8GB Soldered DDR4-3200 |
| Memory Slots | One memory soldered to systemboard, one DDR4 SO-DIMM slot, dual-channel capable |
| Max Memory | Up to 40GB (8GB soldered + 32GB SO-DIMM) DDR4-3200 |
| Storage | 512GB SSD M.2 2242 PCIe® 4.0×4 NVMe® Opal 2.0 |
| Storage Support | Up to two drives, 2x M.2 SSD • M.2 2242 SSD up to 1TB |
| Storage Slot | Two M.2 slots • One M.2 2242 PCIe® 3.0 x4 slot • One M.2 2242 PCIe 4.0 x4 slot |
| Card Reader | No card reader |
| Optical | None |
| Audio Chip | High Definition (HD) Audio, Synaptic® CX11880 codec |
| Speakers | Stereo speakers, 2W x2, Dolby® Atmos® |
| Camera | FHD 1080p with Privacy Shutter |
| Microphone | 2x, Array |
| Battery | Integrated 57Wh |
| Power Adapter | 65W USB-C® (3-pin) |
| Display | 14″ WUXGA (1920×1200) IPS 300nits Anti-glare, 45% NTSC |
| Touchscreen | None |
| Keyboard | Backlit, Arabic |
| Case Color | Graphite Black |
| Case Material | Aluminium (Top), Aluminium (Bottom) |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | Starting at 313 x 219.3 x 17.99 mm (12.32 x 8.63 x 0.71 inches) |
| Weight | Starting at 1.43 kg (3.15 lbs) |
| Operating System | None |
| Bundled Software | None |
| Ethernet | 100/1000M (RJ-45) |
| WLAN + Bluetooth | Wi-Fi® 6, 11ax 2×2 + BT5.1 |
| WWAN | None |
| SIM Card | None |
| NFC | None |
| Standard Ports | 1x USB 2.01x 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 Ethernet (RJ-45)1x Headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm) |
