Lenovo ThinkBook 15 G4 IAP (21DJ00PBAK) Review: A Budget-Friendly Workhorse?
Lenovo ThinkBook 15 G4 IAP (21DJ00PBAK) Review: A Budget-Friendly Workhorse?
The Lenovo ThinkBook 15 G4 IAP is a 15.6-inch laptop aimed at budget-conscious users looking for a reliable machine for work and everyday tasks. Powered by an Intel Core i7-1255U processor, 8GB RAM, and 512GB SSD, this laptop promises decent performance for productivity and light gaming. This review dives deep into its features, performance, and overall experience to help you decide if the ThinkBook 15 G4 IAP is the right fit for you.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Lenovo ThinkBook 15 G4 IAP is a mid-range laptop that aims to balance affordability with decent performance. Its sleek design and lightweight build make it an attractive option for those who need a portable machine for work or school. However, it comes with a FreeDOS operating system, meaning you’ll need to install your preferred operating system, which can be a hurdle for some users.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 15.6″ FHD TN (1920 x 1080) |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-1255U (10 Cores, 12 Threads, 1.20 GHz – 4.70 GHz) |
| Memory | 8GB DDR4-3200MHz |
| Storage | 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce MX550 2GB GDDR5 |
| Operating System | FreeDOS |
| Keyboard | English (UK) Keyboard |
| Weight | 1.7 kg |
| Battery Life | Up to 8 hours (claimed) |
Performance
The ThinkBook 15 G4 IAP delivers solid performance for everyday tasks. The Intel Core i7-1255U processor, paired with 8GB of RAM, handles multitasking, web browsing, and productivity applications smoothly. The 512GB SSD provides fast boot times and quick file transfer speeds. While it’s not a powerhouse gaming machine, the GeForce MX550 graphics card can handle light gaming and casual tasks like video editing.
I tested the ThinkBook 15 G4 IAP by running various benchmarks and real-world tasks. It performed well on benchmark tests, scoring within expectations for its processor and RAM configuration. In everyday use, the laptop handled demanding workloads with ease. I was able to open multiple browser tabs, run productivity software, and stream videos without experiencing lag or slowdowns.
While not a dedicated gaming laptop, the ThinkBook 15 G4 IAP could handle lighter games. I was able to play games like League of Legends and Rocket League at decent frame rates on medium settings. However, for more demanding games, you’ll need a laptop with a more powerful graphics card.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point for the features offered.
- Solid performance for everyday tasks and light gaming.
- Sleek and lightweight design.
- Decent battery life.
- Fast SSD for quick boot times and file transfers.
Cons:
- TN display with limited viewing angles.
- FreeDOS operating system requires a separate installation.
- Not suitable for heavy gaming.
- Limited upgrade options for RAM and storage.
Final Verdict
The Lenovo ThinkBook 15 G4 IAP is a great option for budget-conscious users seeking a reliable laptop for work, school, or everyday tasks. Its performance is solid for its price, and its sleek design and lightweight build make it a portable companion. However, the TN display and the need to install your own operating system might be drawbacks for some. Overall, if you’re looking for a good value-for-money laptop with decent performance, the ThinkBook 15 G4 IAP is a worthy contender.
