Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 Laptop Review: 21JN008YGR – i7-1355U, MX550, 8GB, 512GB SSD
Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 Laptop Review: 21JN008YGR – i7-1355U, MX550, 8GB, 512GB SSD
Welcome to the review of the Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 laptop. This model, specifically the 21JN008YGR configuration, packs a punch with its Intel Core i7-1355U processor, NVIDIA GeForce MX550 graphics, 8GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD. I’ve spent considerable time using this laptop for a range of tasks, from web browsing and productivity to light gaming and multimedia consumption. Here’s a breakdown of my experience.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 is a 16-inch laptop designed for everyday users, students, and professionals seeking a balance between performance and portability. It’s an attractive option for those who need a reliable machine for work, study, or entertainment. Let’s delve deeper into its strengths and weaknesses.
Key Features
This laptop boasts a compelling set of features:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| 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 | 16″ 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 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® 6, 11ax 2×2 + BT5.1 |
| WWAN | None |
| SIM Card | None |
| NFC | None |
| Standard Ports | 1x USB 2.0 1x 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/60Hz 1x Ethernet (RJ-45) 1x Headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm) |
Performance Evaluation
The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 delivers commendable performance, particularly for everyday tasks. The Intel Core i7-1355U processor handled multitasking with ease, allowing me to switch between several applications, including web browsers, productivity software, and even light photo editing, without noticeable lag. The 8GB RAM proved sufficient for most users, but for more demanding workloads, the upgrade to 40GB might be a wise investment.
The NVIDIA GeForce MX550 graphics card provided a noticeable boost for casual gaming and graphics-intensive applications. I could enjoy older games at decent settings and handle basic video editing tasks without any major hiccups. However, for high-end gaming or professional-level graphics work, a more powerful graphics card would be necessary.
The 512GB SSD provided ample storage for my files, applications, and operating system. It also offered fast boot times and quick application loading, significantly enhancing the overall user experience.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Powerful Intel Core i7-1355U processor for efficient multitasking.
- Dedicated NVIDIA GeForce MX550 graphics for improved gaming and multimedia capabilities.
- Fast 512GB SSD for quick boot times and application loading.
- Large 16-inch WUXGA display with vibrant colors and good viewing angles.
- Comfortable and responsive keyboard with a backlit option.
- Excellent battery life for all-day use.
- Durable build quality with a sleek and professional design.
Cons:
- 8GB RAM might be insufficient for demanding users.
- Lack of a card reader for easy file transfer.
- No dedicated number pad on the keyboard, which might be a drawback for some users.
Final Verdict
The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 offers a compelling blend of performance, features, and affordability. It’s an excellent choice for users who prioritize everyday productivity, multimedia consumption, and light gaming without breaking the bank. The laptop’s reliable performance, comfortable keyboard, and solid build quality make it a worthy contender in its price range. While the 8GB RAM could be a limitation for demanding users, overall, the Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 proves to be a solid and well-rounded laptop that delivers on its promises.
