Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G4 IAP Laptop Review (21DH00L3AK): Powerful Performance in a Slim Design

Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G4 IAP Laptop (21DH00L3AK) Review

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G4 IAP Laptop is a solid choice for professionals and students seeking a balance of performance and portability. Powered by an Intel Core i7-1255U processor, 8GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD, this machine handles demanding tasks with ease. Its sleek design and lightweight construction make it a perfect companion for on-the-go professionals.

Features

The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G4 IAP comes packed with features that enhance productivity and user experience. Some notable features include:

  • Intel Core i7-1255U Processor: This powerful processor delivers exceptional performance for demanding applications, multitasking, and even some light gaming.
  • 8GB RAM: Provides ample memory for smooth multitasking and efficient handling of demanding applications.
  • 512GB SSD: Offers fast boot times and quick application loading, boosting overall system responsiveness.
  • 14″ FHD Display: The vibrant display delivers clear visuals for work and entertainment.
  • Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics: Handles basic graphics tasks and light gaming with decent performance.
  • Wi-Fi 6: Enables fast and reliable wireless connectivity.
  • Thunderbolt 4: Offers versatile connectivity options for peripherals and external displays.
  • Fingerprint Reader: Provides secure and convenient login access.

Performance

The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G4 IAP delivers impressive performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications. The Intel Core i7-1255U processor handles demanding workloads with ease, ensuring smooth multitasking and fast application loading. The 8GB RAM provides sufficient memory for running multiple applications simultaneously without noticeable lag. The 512GB SSD offers lightning-fast boot times and rapid data access, further enhancing the overall user experience.

While the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics might not be suitable for demanding gaming, it handles casual games and basic graphics tasks adequately. The battery life is solid, allowing for a full workday on a single charge.

Pros & Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the key advantages and disadvantages of the Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G4 IAP:

Pros:

  • Powerful Intel Core i7 processor for demanding tasks.
  • Fast SSD storage for quick boot times and application loading.
  • Solid battery life for a full workday on a single charge.
  • Sleek and lightweight design for portability.
  • Good selection of ports, including Thunderbolt 4.
  • Fingerprint reader for secure login.

Cons:

  • The TN display could offer better viewing angles and color accuracy.
  • Limited RAM upgrade options.
  • The keyboard lacks backlighting, which can be inconvenient in low-light conditions.

Final Verdict

The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G4 IAP is a fantastic laptop for professionals and students who need a reliable and powerful machine for everyday tasks, productivity, and occasional light gaming. It offers a perfect balance of performance, portability, and features. While the TN display and lack of keyboard backlighting might be drawbacks for some users, the overall performance and value proposition make it a compelling option in its price range.

Specifications

Feature Specification
Processor Intel® Core™ i7-1255U, 10C (2P + 8E) / 12T, P-core 1.7 / 4.7GHz, E-core 1.2 / 3.5GHz, 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 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®
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 4-in-1 Card Reader
Optical None
Audio Chip High Definition (HD) Audio, Realtek® ALC3287 codec
Speakers Stereo speakers, 2W x2, Dolby® Audio™
Camera HD 720p with Privacy Shutter
Microphone 2x, Array
Battery Integrated 45Wh
Power Adapter 65W USB-C® (3-pin)
Display 14″ FHD (1920×1080) TN 250nits Anti-glare, 45% NTSC
Touchscreen None
Keyboard Non-backlit, English (UK)
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 None
Bundled Software None
Ethernet 100/1000M (RJ-45)
WLAN + Bluetooth Wi-Fi® 6, 11ax 2×2 + BT5.1
Standard Ports 1x Card reader1x 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 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)
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 Lenovo® 15.6″ Laptop Casual Toploader
Green Certifications ErP Lot 26ErP Lot 6RoHS compliant
Mil-Spec Test MIL-STD-810H military test passed