Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 Laptop (21JN001RGP) Review: A Solid Workhorse with a Few Tradeoffs
Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 (21JN001RGP) Review: A Solid Workhorse with a Few Tradeoffs
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 (21JN001RGP) is a 16-inch laptop aimed at professionals and students who need a reliable and capable machine for everyday tasks. It boasts a powerful Intel Core i7-1355U processor, NVIDIA GeForce MX550 graphics, and a vibrant WUXGA display. In this review, we’ll put the E16 Gen 1 through its paces, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and whether it truly delivers on its promises.
Key Features
The ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 packs a punch with its impressive specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel® Core™ i7-1355U, 10C (2P + 8E) / 12T, P-core 1.7 / 5.0GHz, E-core 1.2 / 3.7GHz, 12MB |
| Graphics | NVIDIA® GeForce MX550 2GB GDDR6 |
| 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® 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 57Wh |
| Power Adapter | 65W USB-C® (3-pin) |
| Display | 16″ WUXGA (1920×1200) IPS 300nits Anti-glare, 45% NTSC |
| Touchscreen | None |
| Keyboard | Non-backlit, English (UK) |
| 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 USB 2.0, 1x 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), 1x Thunderbolt™ 4 / USB4® 40Gbps (support data transfer, Power Delivery 3.0 and DisplayPort™ 1.4), 1x HDMI® 2.1, up to 4K/60Hz, 1x Headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm), 1x Ethernet (RJ-45) |
| Docking | Various docking solutions supported via Thunderbolt™ or USB-C®. For more compatible docking solutions, please visit Docking for ThinkPad® E16 Gen 1 (Intel®) |
| Monitor Cable | None |
| Smart Card Reader | None |
| 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 |
Performance
The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 delivers solid performance for everyday tasks. The Intel Core i7-1355U processor handles multi-tasking and demanding applications like video editing with ease. The NVIDIA GeForce MX550 graphics card is suitable for light gaming and graphic design tasks.
In real-world usage, I found the E16 Gen 1 to be very responsive and efficient. It handled multiple browser tabs, document editing, and streaming without any lag or stuttering. The 512GB SSD provided ample storage space, and the boot times were impressively fast.
While the E16 Gen 1 isn’t a gaming powerhouse, it can handle some casual gaming. I was able to play games like League of Legends and CS:GO at medium settings without any major issues. However, for more demanding games, you’d need to consider a laptop with a dedicated graphics card.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Powerful Intel Core i7-1355U processor for smooth multitasking and demanding applications.
- Vibrant 16-inch WUXGA display with excellent colour accuracy.
- Solid build quality and a comfortable keyboard.
- Ample connectivity options including Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1.
- Long battery life for all-day productivity.
- Integrated fingerprint reader for secure login.
Cons:
- No card reader for easy file transfer.
- The keyboard lacks backlighting, which can be an inconvenience in low-light conditions.
- The integrated webcam isn’t the best quality for video calls.
- The speakers, while decent, lack the punch of higher-end laptops.
- The price point is on the higher side compared to some other laptops in its class.
Final Verdict
The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 (21JN001RGP) is a capable and reliable laptop that delivers solid performance for everyday tasks. It’s a great option for professionals and students who need a machine for work, school, and light entertainment. The vibrant display, powerful processor, and long battery life make it a strong contender in its category.
However, the lack of a card reader, backlit keyboard, and a higher price point are some drawbacks to consider. If you prioritize these features, you might want to explore other options. But, if you’re looking for a reliable workhorse with a good blend of performance and features, the ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 is definitely worth considering.
