Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 Laptop Review (21JN0016GR): A Budget-Friendly Powerhouse?
Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 Laptop (21JN0016GR) Review
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 (21JN0016GR) is a budget-friendly laptop aimed at students, professionals, and casual users seeking a balance of performance and affordability. Sporting a spacious 16-inch display, a powerful Intel Core i5-1335U processor, and ample storage, it promises a solid computing experience. But does it deliver on its promises? Let’s dive into our detailed review to find out.
Key Features
The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 (21JN0016GR) packs a punch in terms of features, offering a compelling blend of performance and practicality. Some notable highlights include:
- 16-inch WUXGA Display: The large screen real estate provides ample room for multitasking and enjoying multimedia content. The IPS panel ensures vibrant colors and wide viewing angles.
- Intel Core i5-1335U Processor: The latest 13th generation Intel processor delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks, light productivity applications, and even some casual gaming.
- 8GB RAM: Provides sufficient memory for smooth multitasking and handling multiple applications simultaneously.
- 512GB SSD: Ensures quick boot times and fast loading speeds, making your workflow more efficient.
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics: Integrated graphics handle casual gaming and multimedia playback with ease.
- Robust Build: The ThinkPad lineage shines through, featuring a durable and reliable build.
Performance & Usage
In real-world usage, the Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 (21JN0016GR) proved to be a capable performer. I was able to effortlessly handle my daily tasks, including browsing the web, writing documents, and editing photos. The 16-inch screen offered ample workspace for multitasking, and the Intel Core i5-1335U processor kept things running smoothly.
The laptop’s performance was more than sufficient for light gaming, as I could comfortably play games like “Rocket League” and “League of Legends” at decent frame rates. However, for more demanding titles, a dedicated graphics card would be necessary. The keyboard provided a comfortable typing experience, with a decent key travel and good responsiveness. The touchpad was also responsive and accurate, making navigation smooth.
Battery life was a pleasant surprise. It easily lasted for several hours on a single charge, even during heavy usage, making it suitable for mobile work and travel.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons I encountered while using the Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 (21JN0016GR):
Pros
- Large and vibrant 16-inch WUXGA display.
- Powerful Intel Core i5-1335U processor.
- Fast 512GB SSD for quick boot and loading times.
- Durable and reliable build quality.
- Comfortable keyboard and responsive touchpad.
- Excellent battery life.
Cons
- Lack of a dedicated graphics card for demanding gaming.
- No card reader for easy media access.
- Limited RAM upgrade options (soldered memory).
Final Verdict
The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 (21JN0016GR) is a solid all-rounder that provides excellent value for money. Its strong performance, durable build, and comfortable design make it an ideal choice for students, professionals, and anyone seeking a reliable laptop for everyday use. However, the lack of a dedicated graphics card might disappoint hardcore gamers. Overall, the Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 (21JN0016GR) is a highly recommended option for users who prioritize practicality and performance without breaking the bank.
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 Functions as UHD Graphics |
Chipset | Intel® SoC Platform |
Memory | 8GB Soldered DDR4-3200 |
Memory Slots | One memory soldered to system board, 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 47Wh |
Power Adapter | 65W USB-C® (3-pin) |
Display | 16″ WUXGA (1920×1200) IPS 300nits Anti-glare, 45% NTSC |
Touchscreen | None |
Keyboard | Non-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 Ethernet (RJ-45)1x HDMI® 2.1, up to 4K/60Hz1x Headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm)1x Thunderbolt™ 4 / USB4® 40Gbps (support data transfer, Power Delivery 3.0 and DisplayPort™ 1.4)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) |