Introduction

The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1, a 16-inch business laptop, promises a blend of power, reliability, and security. I’ve spent the last few weeks putting it through its paces, running various applications and pushing its limits to see if it lives up to the hype. This in-depth review will cover its design, performance, features, and overall user experience.

Key Features

The ThinkPad E16 boasts a sleek Graphite Black design, immediately conveying a sense of professionalism. The keyboard is comfortable with well-spaced keys, and the larger trackpad is responsive and precise. The inclusion of a numeric keypad is a welcome addition for those who frequently work with numbers. Connectivity is excellent, offering a comprehensive range of ports, including USB-C 3.2, USB-A 3.2 and 2.0, and Thunderbolt™ 4. This ensures easy connection to various peripherals without the need for cumbersome dongles.

Security features are a significant highlight, with a discrete trusted platform module (dTPM) 2.0 for enhanced data protection. The optional hybrid FHD + IR camera, coupled with Windows Hello, provides convenient and secure biometric login.

Performance

Powered by an Intel Core i7-1355U processor, 8GB of DDR4 RAM, and a 512GB SSD, the ThinkPad E16 handles everyday tasks with ease. I tested it with various applications, including demanding software like video editing and data analysis, and it performed admirably. The Intel Iris Xe Graphics proved capable of handling light gaming and basic video editing, though it is not intended for high-end graphics-intensive applications. The SSD provided snappy boot times and quick application loading. Overall, the performance is smooth and efficient for the average user, especially those within the business sector.

However, the 8GB RAM felt somewhat limiting at times, especially when running multiple applications simultaneously. While the laptop handled this efficiently for many applications, more RAM might enhance multitasking capabilities for power users. A potential upgrade option at purchase is something to consider.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Powerful Intel Core i7-1355U processor
• Responsive SSD storage
• Excellent connectivity options
• Comfortable keyboard with numeric keypad
• Sleek and professional design
• Strong security features

Cons:

• 8GB RAM might be limiting for heavy multitasking
• Integrated graphics are not suitable for high-end gaming or video editing
• No SD card slot

Final Verdict

The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen1 offers a solid package for business users. Its performance, robust security features, and comprehensive connectivity make it a capable workhorse. While the 8GB RAM could be a limiting factor for some, its overall performance and reliability make it an attractive option. If you’re looking for a reliable and secure business laptop that can handle demanding tasks, the ThinkPad E16 is certainly worth considering. I would recommend it for its blend of solid performance and attractive price, but suggest looking into RAM upgrades if multitasking is a daily necessity.