The Lenovo ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2 refreshes the modern take on the classic ThinkPad with updated CPU and GPU options. While the first generation made a splash, this iteration faces stiffer competition in the crowded 16-inch laptop market of 2024. It remains a good choice for IT departments, but its overall appeal is somewhat diminished.
A Familiar Modern Design
The side profile of the ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2 on a table outside.Image: The sleek profile of the ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2.
The ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2 retains the sleek, modern design of its predecessor, a departure from the more traditional ThinkPad aesthetic. The dark gray lid, chrome edges, and classic black keyboard deck offer a sophisticated look reminiscent of the Apple MacBook Pro. Slim bezels and Lenovo’s reverse notch, housing the 1080p webcam and infrared camera for Windows Hello, contribute to the modern feel. The smooth hinge allows for one-handed opening and secure display positioning.
The robust aluminum chassis and lid, tested to military-grade standards, ensure durability, though the MacBook Pro still feels more solid. At 0.62 inches thin and 3.99 pounds, the ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2 boasts excellent portability for a 16-inch laptop.
The comfortable keyboard features sculpted keycaps with substantial travel and lighter switches compared to other ThinkPads. Keycap size and spacing are excellent, and the Ctrl and Fn keys are in their standard positions.
The keyboard deck of the ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2.Image: A close-up of the ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2’s keyboard.
The haptic touchpad, while smaller than the MacBook Pro 16’s, is generally responsive, though occasional clinging to virtual clicks can be an issue. The TrackPoint nubbin is also present for those who prefer it. One notable drawback is the excessively smooth palm rest, which can make typing less comfortable.
Connectivity is good, featuring both USB-C, USB-A, HDMI 2.1, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a microSD card reader. While Thunderbolt 4 is absent due to the AMD chipset, wireless connectivity is up-to-date with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. Security features include a fingerprint reader, a match-on-chip sensor, and a self-healing BIOS. The AMD Ryzen Pro processor further enhances security by integrating with enterprise management systems.
Performance: A Modest Boost
The lid of the ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2.Image: The closed lid of the ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2.
Equipped with AMD Ryzen Pro 7040 series CPUs, the ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2 offers performance comparable to its non-Pro counterparts, alongside enhanced security and manageability for businesses. Our review unit, featuring the Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS and AMD Radeon RX 6550M GPU, delivered mixed performance results. Geekbench 5 scores were lower than expected, while Handbrake and Cinebench R23 results were more competitive. Lenovo’s performance management, integrated with Windows performance slider, showed minimal impact between balanced and performance modes. Thermal performance was good, with the chassis remaining cool under load.
For creative workflows, the ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2’s performance is adequate for lighter tasks, but more demanding workloads may require a laptop with a more powerful CPU and GPU combination. Similarly, gamers seeking to play modern titles should consider alternatives.
| Geekbench (single/multi) | Handbrake (seconds) | Cinebench R23 (single/multi) | PugetBench Premiere Pro | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lenovo ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2 (Ryzen 9 PRO 7940HS/RX 6550M) | Bal: 1,144 / 8,241 Perf: 1,362 / 8,064 | Bal: 72 Perf: 75 | Bal: 1,735 / 14,642 Perf: 1,762 / 15,446 | Bal: 377 Perf: 389 |
| Lenovo ThinkPad Z16 (Ryzen 7 PRO 6850H/RX 6500M) | Bal: 1,360 / 8,648 Perf: 1,365 / 8,679 | Bal: 88 Perf: 67 | Bal: 1,509 / 11,578 Perf: 1,806 / 13,313 | N/A |
| Acer Swift X 16 (Ryzen 9 7940HS/RTX 4050) | Bal: 1,840 / 11,741 Perf: 1,893 / 11,681 | Bal: 64 Perf: 64 | Bal: 1,793 / 16,407 Perf: 1,799 / 16,760 | Bal: 567 Perf: 568 |
| HP Envy 16 (2023) (Core i9-13900H/RTX 4060) | Bal: 1,997 / 12,742 Perf: 1,992 / 12,645 | Bal: 73 Perf: 75 | Bal: 1,944 / 15,596 Perf: 1,954 / 15,422 | Bal: 544 Perf: 608 |
| Dell XPS 15 (9530) (Core i7-13700H/RTX 4070) | Bal: 1,787 / 11,978 Perf: 1,830 / 11,769 | Bal: 79 Perf: 76 | Bal: 1,865 / 13,386 Perf: 1,868 / 13,927 | N/A |
| Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Max) | N/A | Bal: 53 Perf: N/A | Bal: 1,881 / 22,028 Perf: 1,883 / 23,417 | Bal: 889 Perf: N/A |
Battery Life and Display: Room for Improvement
The ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2’s battery life is a significant step down from its predecessor. Despite the same 72 watt-hour battery, the 4K+ OLED display and Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS contribute to significantly reduced runtime. Our testing yielded just six hours in web browsing and eight hours in video playback, impacting portability and requiring frequent charging.
The screen of the ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2.Image: The ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2’s display showcasing vibrant colors.
The 16.0-inch 16:10 4K+ OLED display offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent HDR performance through Dolby Vision. However, the 60Hz refresh rate feels dated compared to the 90Hz or 120Hz panels found in many competing laptops. While color accuracy and brightness are excellent, the refresh rate may be a drawback for users sensitive to smoother scrolling and animations.
The audio quality, delivered through upward-firing speakers, is average. While loud enough, the sound can distort at maximum volume and lacks bass.
Conclusion
The ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2 is a capable laptop with a modern design and robust security features, making it a suitable choice for businesses. However, its shorter battery life, average audio, and dated display refresh rate hold it back from truly excelling in the competitive 16-inch laptop market. While a solid option for general productivity, demanding users and creators might find better value elsewhere.
