Lenovo ThinkPad E15 Gen 4 (21E6S07700) Review: A Solid Workhorse
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Lenovo ThinkPad E15 Gen 4 is a mid-range laptop designed for professionals and students who need a reliable and durable machine for everyday tasks. It packs a punch with its 12th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, ample RAM, and a spacious SSD. I’ve been using the E15 Gen 4 for several weeks now, and I’m impressed with its overall performance and build quality. This review will delve into its key features, performance, and real-world usage experiences.
Key Features
The Lenovo ThinkPad E15 Gen 4 boasts a comprehensive set of features, making it a versatile machine:
- 15.6″ FHD IPS Display: The display provides vibrant colors and sharp details for a pleasant viewing experience. The anti-glare coating minimizes reflections, enhancing readability in various lighting conditions.
- Intel Core i5-1235U Processor: The 12th Gen Intel Core i5 processor delivers robust performance for multitasking, productivity applications, and even light gaming. The 10 cores (2 performance + 8 efficiency) ensure efficient handling of demanding tasks.
- 8GB RAM: The 8GB of soldered DDR4 RAM allows for smooth multitasking and ensures your applications run efficiently.
- 512GB SSD: The fast 512GB SSD provides ample storage space and rapid boot times, enhancing the overall user experience.
- Intel UHD Graphics: The integrated Intel UHD Graphics is suitable for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and casual gaming. While it may not be ideal for demanding graphics-intensive applications, it performs well for general usage.
- Wi-Fi 6E: Enjoy fast and reliable wireless connectivity with the built-in Wi-Fi 6E support, allowing you to connect to the latest Wi-Fi networks and experience enhanced performance.
- Thunderbolt 4: The Thunderbolt 4 port offers high-speed data transfer, Power Delivery 3.0 support for fast charging, and DisplayPort 1.4 capabilities for connecting external monitors.
- Long Battery Life: The 45Wh battery provides up to 8 hours of usage on a single charge, depending on usage patterns and brightness settings. This is ideal for users who need to work or study on the go.
- Durable Design: The ThinkPad E15 Gen 4 is designed with durability in mind, featuring a robust chassis and a spill-resistant keyboard, ensuring it can withstand everyday wear and tear.
Performance
The Lenovo ThinkPad E15 Gen 4 delivers solid performance for everyday tasks. I was able to run multiple applications simultaneously, including web browsers, productivity software, and streaming services, without any noticeable lag or stuttering. The Intel Core i5-1235U processor handled demanding applications like video editing and graphic design with ease, although it may struggle with highly intensive tasks like gaming.
The SSD provides lightning-fast boot times and quick application loading, significantly enhancing the overall user experience. The FHD display is vibrant and sharp, making it ideal for watching movies and working on graphics-intensive projects.
While the integrated Intel UHD Graphics is not ideal for high-end gaming, it handles everyday tasks like browsing and video streaming effortlessly. You can enjoy casual games at lower settings, but don’t expect it to handle AAA titles at high resolutions.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Powerful Intel Core i5-1235U processor
- Fast 512GB SSD for quick boot times and application loading
- Durable and spill-resistant design
- Long battery life for extended usage on the go
- Vibrant and sharp FHD IPS display
- Excellent keyboard with a comfortable typing experience
- Comprehensive I/O port selection
- Affordable price point for its features
Cons:
- Integrated graphics may not be suitable for demanding gaming
- Limited upgradeability with only one memory slot
- Slightly bulky and heavy for a 15.6-inch laptop
Final Verdict
The Lenovo ThinkPad E15 Gen 4 (21E6S07700) is a solid laptop that excels in everyday tasks and offers excellent value for money. Its powerful processor, ample RAM, and fast SSD provide a smooth and efficient user experience. The durable design and long battery life make it ideal for professionals and students who need a reliable machine for work, study, and entertainment. While its integrated graphics may not be suitable for demanding gaming, it’s a minor drawback considering its overall performance and affordability. If you’re looking for a balanced laptop with great performance and durability, the ThinkPad E15 Gen 4 is a fantastic choice.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Lenovo |
| Processor | Intel Core i5-1235U, 10C (2P +8E) / 12T, P-core 1.3 / 4.4GHz, E-core 0.9 / 3.3GHz, 12MB |
| 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 Opal2, Storage Support: One drive offering, up to 1TB M.2 2242 SSD |
| Operating System | DOS |
| Display | 15.6″ FHD (1920×1080) IPS 300nits Anti-glare, 45% NTSC |
| Graphics | Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics functions as UHD Graphics |
| Wireless & Camera | Ethernet: 100/1000M, WLAN + Bluetooth: Wi-Fi 6E 11ax, 2×2 + BT5.2, FHD 1080p with Privacy Shutter |
| Audio & Speakers | Audio Chip: High Definition (HD) Audio, Realtek ALC3287 codec, Speakers: Stereo speakers, 2W x2, Dolby Audio, audio by HARMAN, Microphone: 2x, Array |
| I/O Ports | 1x USB 2.0, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Always On), 1x Thunderbolt 4 / USB 4 40Gbps (support data transfer, Power Delivery 3.0, and DisplayPort 1.4), 1x HDMI, up to 4K/60Hz, 1x Ethernet (RJ-45), 1x Headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm) |
| Battery/Battery Life | Battery: Integrated 45Wh, Max Battery Life: Model with 45Wh battery/ MobileMark 2018: up to 8.0 hr/ JEITA 2.0: up to 12.6 hr/ Local video (1080p) playback@150nits: up to 11.1 hr. Power Adapter: 65W USB-C (3-pin) |
| Weight | 1.7 kg (3.75 lbs) |
| Dimension WxDxH | 365 x 240 x 18.9 mm |