The Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 might appear understated at first glance, with its classic grey, boxy design. However, this business laptop prioritizes functionality and repairability over flashy aesthetics. This review delves into its performance, features, and what makes it a compelling choice for professionals.
This laptop stands out for its repairability, a welcome return to a more sustainable approach to electronics. While it might not boast cutting-edge design, its robust build and practical features make it a reliable workhorse.
Specifications and Build Quality
ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 logo IDG / Josh Hendrickson
Priced at $1,692, the ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 isn’t budget-friendly, but its specifications largely justify the cost. The reviewed model boasts an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor, 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and a 512GB PCIe Gen 4 TLC SSD. While configurations with a Core i5 are available for less, the performance boost of the i7 is worthwhile. Other notable features include a 1440p QHD webcam, a bright 1920×1200 IPS non-touch display, and comprehensive connectivity options including Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, HDMI 2.1, and Ethernet.
The ThinkPad’s design is reminiscent of earlier models, prioritizing practicality and durability. The chassis feels solid, and while not the thinnest laptop on the market, its robust construction suggests longevity. Lenovo’s collaboration with iFixit makes this laptop remarkably repairable. Accessing internal components like the battery, storage, and RAM is straightforward. While not as modular as a Framework laptop, the ease of repair is a significant advantage.
ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 torn apart IDG / Josh Hendrickson
Input and Multimedia
ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 keyboard IDG / Josh Hendrickson
The keyboard, while functional, feels slightly cramped. The inclusion of modern keys like the Copilot key might contribute to the compact layout. The classic TrackPoint and dedicated trackpad buttons are present, catering to long-time ThinkPad users. The trackpad itself is smooth and responsive, offering multi-touch gestures.
Lenovo ThinkPad T14 IDG / Josh Hendrickson
The 14-inch IPS display is bright and adequate for indoor use. While colors aren’t exceptionally vibrant, the matte finish minimizes glare and smudges. The speakers are sufficient for casual use but lack depth and bass. For a richer audio experience, headphones are recommended.
ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 webcam IDG / Josh Hendrickson
The 1440p webcam provides clear video, although color reproduction could be improved. While this model lacks a Windows Hello-compatible webcam, a fingerprint reader offers biometric security.
Performance and Battery Life
ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 PCMark results IDG / Josh Hendrickson
The ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 performs well in everyday productivity tasks. Benchmark results on PCMark are solid, indicating its capability for web browsing, video conferencing, and office applications. However, it falls slightly behind in more demanding tasks like video editing and gaming, as demonstrated by Cinebench and Handbrake benchmarks. The integrated Intel Arc graphics are sufficient for general use but not ideal for graphically intensive applications.
ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 Cinebench results IDG / Josh Hendrickson
ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 Handbrake results IDG / Josh Hendrickson
ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 Time Spy results IDG / Josh Hendrickson
ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 battery life results IDG / Josh Hendrickson
Battery life is impressive, exceeding 13 hours in our video playback test. This translates to all-day usage for typical work or school tasks.
Conclusion
The Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 is a reliable and practical laptop ideal for business users and students. Its repairability is a significant advantage, potentially extending its lifespan and reducing electronic waste. While not a powerhouse for gaming or demanding creative tasks, its performance is more than adequate for productivity and everyday use. If you prioritize longevity, repairability, and a dependable work experience, the ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 is a worthwhile investment.
