Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 2 Laptop Review (21MA001PGR) – A Balanced Performer
Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 2 Laptop Review (21MA001PGR): A Balanced Performer
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 2 is a business-oriented laptop that aims to deliver a balance of performance and affordability. Equipped with a powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor, a vibrant 16-inch WUXGA display, and a sleek design, the E16 Gen 2 promises a solid experience for professionals and students alike. I recently had the chance to put this laptop through its paces, and in this review, I’ll share my insights, covering its features, performance, and overall value.
Features
The ThinkPad E16 Gen 2 boasts a range of features designed for both productivity and everyday use. Here’s a breakdown of its key aspects:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, 16C (6P + 8E + 2LPE) / 22T, Max Turbo up to 4.8GHz, 24MB |
| NPU | Intel AI Boost integrated in Intel Core Ultra processor, up to 11 TOPS |
| Graphics | Integrated Intel Arc Graphics Functions as Intel Graphics |
| Chipset | Intel SoC Platform |
| Memory | 1x 16GB SO-DIMM DDR5-5600 |
| Memory Slots | Two DDR5 SO-DIMM slots, dual-channel capable |
| Max Memory | Up to 64GB DDR5-5600 |
| Storage | 512GB SSD M.2 2242 PCIe 4.0×4 NVMe Opal 2.0 |
| Storage Support | Up to two drives, 2x M.2 SSD |
| Storage Slot | Two M.2 slots |
| Card Reader | No card reader |
| Optical | None |
| Audio Chip | High Definition (HD) Audio, Senary SN6141 codec |
| Speakers | Stereo speakers, 2W x2, Dolby Atmos®, audio by HARMAN |
| Camera | FHD 1080p + IR Hybrid with Privacy Shutter |
| Microphone | 2x, Array |
| Battery | Integrated 57Wh |
| Power Adapter | 65W USB-C® (3-pin) |
| Display | 16″ WUXGA (1920×1200) IPS 300nits Anti-glare, 45% NTSC |
| Touchscreen | None |
| Keyboard | Backlit, Arabic |
| Case Color | Black |
| Case Material | Aluminium (Top), Aluminium (Bottom) |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 356.1 x 247.7 x 19.85 mm (14.02 x 9.75 x 0.78 inches) |
| Weight | Starting at 1.81 kg (3.99 lbs) |
| Operating System | None |
| Bundled Software | None |
| Ethernet | 100/1000M (RJ-45) |
| WLAN + Bluetooth | Wi-Fi 6E, 802.11ax 2×2 + BT5.3 |
| WWAN | None |
| SIM Card | None |
| NFC | None |
| Standard Ports | 1x USB-A (USB 5Gbps / USB 3.2 Gen 1) |
| Docking | Various docking solutions supported via Thunderbolt or USB-C |
| Smart Card Reader | None |
| Security Chip | Discrete TPM 2.0 Enabled |
| Fingerprint Reader | Touch Style, Match-on-Chip, Integrated in Power Button |
| Physical Locks | Kensington Nano Security Slot, 2.5 x 6 mm |
| Other Security | IR camera for Windows Hello (facial recognition) |
Performance
The ThinkPad E16 Gen 2’s performance is where it truly shines. The Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor, with its 16 cores and 22 threads, handled everything I threw at it with ease. From multitasking between demanding applications to running resource-intensive software, the laptop never stumbled. The 16GB of DDR5 RAM ensured smooth performance even when working with multiple open tabs and programs.
The Intel Arc Graphics, while not a dedicated GPU, proved to be sufficient for basic graphics tasks and casual gaming. I was able to play some older titles at decent settings, but don’t expect to run the latest AAA games at high resolutions. The 512GB SSD provided ample storage space for my files and programs, and its fast read/write speeds ensured quick application launches and file transfers.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor
- Spacious and vibrant 16-inch WUXGA display
- Comfortable and responsive keyboard with backlight
- Solid build quality with aluminum top and bottom
- Decent battery life for everyday use
- Robust security features including fingerprint reader and IR camera
- Upgradable memory and storage
Cons:
- Lack of a card reader
- Integrated graphics not suitable for high-end gaming
- Limited port selection
Final Verdict
Overall, the Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 2 is a solid business laptop that offers excellent performance and a comfortable user experience. It’s a great choice for professionals and students who need a reliable and powerful machine for their daily tasks. While it has a few drawbacks, like the lack of a card reader and limited port selection, its strengths outweigh its weaknesses. If you’re looking for a well-rounded laptop that won’t break the bank, the ThinkPad E16 Gen 2 is worth considering.
