Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 Review


8 min read 14-11-2024
Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 Review

The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is a business laptop designed for everyday work tasks, such as browsing the web, email, and basic productivity apps. It is a reliable and affordable option for those who don't need a powerful gaming or creative machine. The E14 Gen 5 is a successor to the previous generation, and it brings several improvements, including a new processor, better battery life, and a redesigned keyboard.

Design and Build

The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 features a classic ThinkPad design, with a black chassis and a red trackpoint. It is a sturdy and durable laptop, and it feels solid in hand. The lid is made of aluminum, while the bottom is made of plastic. The hinges are strong and hold the lid securely in place, even when the laptop is shaken.

The E14 Gen 5 has a compact design that makes it easy to transport. It weighs only 1.65 kg (3.6 lbs), which is lightweight for a 14-inch laptop. The laptop has a footprint of 321 x 226 x 19.9 mm, which is about the size of a standard sheet of paper.

Display

The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 has a 14-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) display with a 60Hz refresh rate. The display is bright and colorful, with good viewing angles. The panel is also anti-glare, which makes it easier to use outdoors. However, the display is not touch-sensitive, so you'll need to use a mouse or trackpad to interact with the computer.

Keyboard and Trackpad

The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 features a full-sized keyboard with a dedicated number pad. The keys have a comfortable travel distance and a nice tactile feedback. The keyboard also has a backlight, which is helpful for working in low-light conditions.

The trackpad is also excellent. It is large and responsive, and it supports multi-touch gestures. The red trackpoint, a signature feature of ThinkPad laptops, is also present and works flawlessly. It is a matter of personal preference, but the trackpoint is a great addition for users who prefer a more precise pointing device.

Performance

The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is powered by a variety of processors, including the Intel Core i5-1135G7 and Intel Core i7-1165G7. It also comes with a variety of RAM and storage options. We tested the model with an Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD.

The E14 Gen 5 performs well for everyday tasks, such as browsing the web, email, and basic productivity apps. However, it is not a powerful machine that can handle heavy workloads or demanding applications. If you need to use demanding applications like video editing or 3D modeling, then you'll need to consider a different laptop.

Battery Life

The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 has a battery life of up to 10 hours, according to Lenovo. In our tests, we found that the battery life was closer to 8 hours, which is still good for a business laptop. We tested the battery life by browsing the web and doing some light work tasks at 50% brightness. The battery life will vary depending on your usage habits.

Ports and Connectivity

The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 has a good selection of ports, including two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports (one with Thunderbolt 4 support), an HDMI port, an RJ-45 Ethernet port, and a microSD card reader. It also features a webcam with privacy shutter and an integrated microphone. The laptop supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1.

Audio

The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 has dual speakers that produce decent audio quality. The sound is loud enough for watching videos and listening to music, but it lacks bass. It's not ideal for music enthusiasts, but it's acceptable for casual use.

Software

The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 comes with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed. It also comes with a few Lenovo utilities, such as Lenovo Vantage, which allows you to manage your laptop's settings, and Lenovo Companion, which provides information about your laptop and helps you troubleshoot issues.

Conclusion

The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is a solid business laptop that is well-suited for everyday tasks. It has a classic ThinkPad design, a comfortable keyboard, a good trackpad, and decent performance. The battery life is also good, and the laptop has a good selection of ports. However, the display is not touch-sensitive, and the audio quality is not great. Overall, the Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is a great choice for users who need a reliable and affordable laptop for everyday work tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the main differences between the Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 and the previous generation?

A: The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 has several improvements over the previous generation, including a new processor, better battery life, a redesigned keyboard, and a more modern look.

Q: Is the Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 good for gaming?

A: The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is not designed for gaming. If you want a laptop for gaming, you'll need to choose a model with a dedicated graphics card.

Q: Is the Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 good for video editing?

A: The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is not a powerful laptop that can handle demanding tasks like video editing. If you need to edit videos, you'll need to choose a laptop with a more powerful processor and graphics card.

Q: What are the main competitors of the Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5?

A: The main competitors of the Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 are other business laptops, such as the HP EliteBook 840 G8, Dell Latitude 5420, and Acer Swift 3 SF314-511.

Q: What is the warranty on the Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5?

A: The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 comes with a one-year standard warranty. You can purchase extended warranties for additional coverage.

ThinkPad E14 Gen 5: A Closer Look

The ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor, bringing with it a multitude of improvements designed to enhance user experience and productivity. Let's delve deeper into these key areas:

Performance: A Notable Upgrade

The adoption of 11th generation Intel Core processors has undoubtedly been a game-changer for the ThinkPad E14 Gen 5. These processors deliver a noticeable improvement in performance, particularly when it comes to multitasking and demanding applications. The Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics also provide a boost in graphical performance, enabling smoother visuals for everyday tasks and even some light gaming.

However, it's essential to recognize the target audience. While the E14 Gen 5 excels for everyday tasks, it is not a powerhouse meant for demanding video editing, 3D rendering, or high-end gaming. For such intensive workloads, users will need to consider a more specialized laptop with a dedicated graphics card.

Battery Life: A Step in the Right Direction

One of the most significant improvements in the ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is the extended battery life. Lenovo boasts up to 10 hours of battery life, and while real-world usage might fall short of this claim, it still signifies a considerable leap from the previous generation. This extended battery life is a boon for professionals on the move, allowing them to work uninterrupted for longer periods without needing to find a power outlet.

However, it's important to acknowledge that battery life is influenced by various factors, including screen brightness, usage patterns, and the chosen configuration. It's best to consider these variables when evaluating the battery life claims.

Design and Build: A Familiar Yet Refined Look

The ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 continues the legacy of the ThinkPad series with its classic black chassis and iconic red trackpoint. The design is both familiar and refined, offering a sturdy and durable build. The aluminum lid adds a premium touch while maintaining a professional and understated aesthetic.

While the ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is designed for durability and reliability, it's important to remember that it's not indestructible. It's essential to handle it with care and consider using a protective case for added protection.

Connectivity: A Wide Array of Options

The ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 boasts a wide array of ports, catering to diverse connectivity needs. From the standard USB-A ports to the more modern USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 support, the laptop offers flexibility for connecting various peripherals. The inclusion of an HDMI port ensures seamless connectivity to external displays, while the Ethernet port provides a reliable wired connection when Wi-Fi is unavailable.

The presence of a microSD card reader is a valuable addition, especially for those who need to transfer files or work with external storage devices. These comprehensive connectivity options contribute to the overall versatility of the ThinkPad E14 Gen 5.

Software: Streamlined and User-Friendly

The ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 ships with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, offering a familiar and intuitive user experience. Lenovo also includes its own set of utilities, such as Lenovo Vantage and Lenovo Companion, which provide helpful features for managing the laptop and troubleshooting issues.

However, it's worth noting that some users might find the inclusion of pre-installed bloatware to be a minor inconvenience. It's generally advisable to review and uninstall any unnecessary software after setting up the laptop.

ThinkPad E14 Gen 5: A Comparative Analysis

When evaluating the ThinkPad E14 Gen 5, it's helpful to compare it with its key competitors in the business laptop market. Let's consider some of the most prominent contenders:

ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 vs. HP EliteBook 840 G8

The HP EliteBook 840 G8 is a strong competitor to the ThinkPad E14 Gen 5, offering a similar set of features and functionalities. Both laptops boast durable build quality, comfortable keyboards, and impressive battery life. However, the EliteBook 840 G8 tends to offer slightly better performance due to its higher-end processor options.

When choosing between these two laptops, the deciding factor often comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Those seeking maximum performance might favor the EliteBook 840 G8, while those prioritizing value and affordability might lean towards the ThinkPad E14 Gen 5.

ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 vs. Dell Latitude 5420

The Dell Latitude 5420 is another formidable contender in the business laptop market. It's known for its sturdy build quality, excellent display, and impressive battery life. Similar to the ThinkPad E14 Gen 5, the Latitude 5420 is a solid choice for everyday business tasks.

One key difference between these two laptops lies in their design aesthetics. The ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 boasts a classic ThinkPad design with its black chassis and red trackpoint, while the Latitude 5420 offers a more modern and sleek look. The choice ultimately depends on the user's personal preference and desired aesthetic.

ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 vs. Acer Swift 3 SF314-511

The Acer Swift 3 SF314-511 is a more affordable and lightweight alternative to the ThinkPad E14 Gen 5. It boasts a stylish design, a comfortable keyboard, and decent performance for everyday tasks. However, it falls short of the ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 in terms of durability and overall build quality.

If budget is a major concern and portability is a high priority, the Acer Swift 3 SF314-511 might be a compelling option. However, those who value durability and a more robust build will likely prefer the ThinkPad E14 Gen 5.

ThinkPad E14 Gen 5: A Conclusion

The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is a capable business laptop that delivers reliable performance, impressive battery life, and a comfortable user experience. It is a solid choice for professionals who need a durable and reliable machine for everyday tasks, such as web browsing, email, and basic productivity applications. While it may not be the most powerful laptop in its class, it strikes a good balance between performance, affordability, and battery life.

If you're looking for a well-rounded business laptop that can handle your everyday needs, the ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is worth considering. It offers a dependable and reliable computing experience for professionals on the go.