Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Ultra Desktop Workstation (30HA000CAX) Review – Powerful and Compact
Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Ultra Desktop Workstation (30HA000CAX) Review
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Ultra Desktop Workstation (30HA000CAX) is a compact powerhouse packed with impressive features. With its Intel Core i7-13700 processor, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and 512GB SSD, it promises high performance for demanding tasks like 3D modeling, video editing, and software development. I had the opportunity to put this workstation through its paces, and in this review, I’ll share my insights and experiences.
Features
The ThinkStation P3 Ultra is designed for professionals who need a powerful and reliable workstation without sacrificing space. Here are some notable features:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel® Core™ i7-13700, 16C (8P + 8E) / 24T, Max Turbo up to 5.2GHz, P-core 2.1 / 5.1GHz, E-core 1.5 / 4.1GHz, 30MB |
| Processor Sockets | 1x FCLGA1700 |
| Integrated Graphics | Integrated Intel® UHD Graphics 770 |
| Discrete Graphics | None |
| Chipset | Intel® W680 Chipset |
| Memory | 1x 16GB SO-DIMM DDR5-4800 Non-ECC |
| Memory Slots | Four DDR5 SO-DIMM slots, dual-channel capable |
| Max Memory | Up to 128GB (4x 32GB DDR5 SO-DIMM) |
| M.2 SSD RAID Controller | Integrated NVMe® controller |
| M.2 SSD Drive | 1x 512GB SSD M.2 2280 PCIe® 4.0×4 Performance NVMe® Opal |
| HDD Controller | Integrated SATA controller |
| SATA/SAS Drive | None |
| Storage Support | Up to 1x 2.5″ HDD + 2x M.2 SSD • 2.5″ HDD up to 1TB • M.2 SSD up to 4TB each |
| Audio Chip | High Definition (HD) Audio, Realtek® ALC897-Q codec |
| Power Supply | 230W 90% Adapter |
| Keyboard | USB Traditional Keyboard, Black, Arabic |
| Mouse | USB Calliope Mouse, Black |
| Expansion Slots | Two PCIe® slots with one PCIe 4.0 x16 and one PCIe 3.0 x8. • Slot 1: PCIe 4.0 x16 (via MXM to PCIe riser card), low profile, 75W, double-width • Slot 2: PCIe 3.0 x8 (x4 lanes), low profile, 25W |
| M.2 Slots | Two M.2 PCIe® Gen 4×4 slots (for SSD)One M.2 slot (for WLAN) |
| Bays | 1x 2.5″ disk bay (optional, comes with disk) |
| Dust Filter | None |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 87 x 223 x 202 mm (3.43 x 8.78 x 7.95 inches) |
| Weight | 3.6 kg (7.94 lbs, maximum configuration) |
| Onboard Ethernet | Intel® I225-LM + I210-AT, 2x RJ-45, 2.5GbE + GbE |
| Optional Ethernet | None |
| WLAN + Bluetooth | None |
| Front Ports | 1x USB 3.2 Gen 22x Thunderbolt™ 41x headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm) |
| Rear Ports | 4x USB 3.2 Gen 23x DisplayPort™ 1.21x Ethernet (2.5GbE RJ-45)1x Ethernet (GbE RJ-45) |
Performance
The ThinkStation P3 Ultra delivered exceptional performance in my tests. I ran various benchmarks, including Cinebench R23 and 3DMark Time Spy, and the results were consistently impressive. The Intel Core i7-13700 processor handled demanding tasks with ease, and the 16GB DDR5 RAM provided ample memory for multi-tasking. The 512GB SSD ensured lightning-fast boot times and application launches.
I also tested the workstation’s capabilities with Adobe Premiere Pro and Autodesk Maya. It effortlessly handled large video files and complex 3D models. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 delivered smooth performance for general graphics tasks and basic video editing.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Powerful Intel Core i7-13700 processor
- Fast 16GB DDR5 RAM
- Spacious storage with a 512GB SSD and expandable options
- Compact design, saving valuable desk space
- Quiet operation, minimizing distractions
Cons
- Limited upgrade options for RAM and storage
- No dedicated graphics card, limiting high-end gaming and professional graphics workflows
- No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth included
Final Verdict
The Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Ultra Desktop Workstation (30HA000CAX) is a fantastic choice for professionals who require a powerful and compact workstation for demanding tasks. Its performance is excellent, thanks to the powerful processor, fast RAM, and responsive SSD. The compact design makes it ideal for limited desk space, and its quiet operation allows for focused work.
However, the limited upgrade options for RAM and storage, lack of a dedicated graphics card, and absence of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth might be drawbacks for some users. Overall, if you’re looking for a robust and compact workstation that delivers exceptional performance, the ThinkStation P3 Ultra is definitely worth considering.
