Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 (21JN001VGP) Review: A Solid Workhorse?

Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 (21JN001VGP) Review: A Solid Workhorse?

The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 (21JN001VGP) is a mid-range laptop that aims to provide a balance of performance and affordability. But does it live up to the expectations set by its iconic ThinkPad heritage? In this detailed review, we’ll explore its strengths and weaknesses, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your daily computing needs.

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 is a business-oriented laptop designed for productivity. Its large 16-inch display, comfortable keyboard, and reliable performance make it a suitable option for students, professionals, and everyday users. However, it’s important to consider its price point and potential limitations before making a decision.

Features

The ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 boasts a range of features that aim to enhance productivity and user experience. These include:

  • 16-inch WUXGA IPS display with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels
  • Intel Core i5-1335U processor
  • 8GB of DDR4 RAM
  • 256GB PCIe SSD
  • Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics
  • Backlit keyboard with a dedicated fingerprint reader
  • HD 720p webcam with privacy shutter
  • Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity
  • A generous selection of ports, including USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, and an RJ-45 connector

Performance

Powered by the Intel Core i5-1335U processor and 8GB of RAM, the ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 delivers solid performance for everyday tasks. It handles web browsing, document editing, and light multitasking efficiently. While it’s not a powerhouse designed for gaming or heavy video editing, it’s more than capable of handling demanding tasks with adequate responsiveness.

The 256GB PCIe SSD provides fast boot times and quick application loading speeds. However, if you require larger storage capacity, consider opting for a configuration with a larger SSD. The Intel Iris Xe graphics can handle basic graphics tasks and casual gaming at lower settings.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Large, comfortable keyboard and touchpad
  • Solid build quality and durability
  • Decent display with good color accuracy and brightness
  • Good battery life for everyday use
  • Wide selection of ports
  • Affordable price point compared to other ThinkPad models

Cons

  • Average performance for demanding applications
  • Limited RAM configuration may impact multitasking performance
  • Integrated graphics are not ideal for demanding games or video editing
  • Plastic chassis may feel slightly less premium than higher-end models

Final Verdict

The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 (21JN001VGP) is a solid option for those looking for a reliable and affordable laptop for everyday use. It offers a comfortable typing experience, a decent display, and good battery life. However, it’s important to consider its limitations in terms of performance and graphics capabilities. If you’re looking for a laptop that can handle demanding tasks or gaming, this might not be the best choice. But, if you need a reliable and affordable laptop for everyday productivity, the ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 is worth considering.

Specifications
Feature Specification
Model Number 21JN001VGP
Display 16″ WUXGA IPS (1920 x 1200)
Processor Intel Core i5-1335U
RAM 8GB DDR4
Storage 256GB PCIe SSD
Graphics Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Keyboard Backlit, English (UK)
Webcam HD 720p with privacy shutter
Connectivity Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1
Operating System Free DOS
Color Graphite Black