The Lenovo ThinkPad series is often seen as the gold standard for Windows productivity laptops, but their premium price tag can be a barrier. Lenovo’s ThinkBook line offers a compelling alternative, delivering many of the same features and build quality at a more accessible price point. The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 Gen 4, starting around $1,000, is a prime example. While it won’t satisfy hardcore gamers, its solid performance and durable design make it an excellent choice for productivity-focused users.
Design and Build: Premium Feel, Practical Features
The ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 exudes a professional elegance. The slim, tapered underside and robust aluminum chassis with a dual-texture lid finish convey both sophistication and durability. Its compact design makes it easy to carry and handle.
ThinkBook design
Included is the Lenovo Slim Pen, a comfortable and responsive stylus that magnetically attaches to the laptop’s right edge. While Windows 11’s stylus support still has room for improvement, the pen itself is a valuable addition for note-taking and sketching. The power button, integrated with a fingerprint scanner, is conveniently located next to the pen, although its proximity can make it slightly tricky to access. This edge also houses a microSD card slot, a USB-A port, and a Kensington lock. The opposite side features two USB-C ports (one Thunderbolt 4), another USB-A port, an HDMI port, and a 3.5mm audio jack.
At 3.61 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than some 14-inch laptops, but the compact size and sturdy 360-degree hinge make it easy to use in various modes, from laptop to tablet to tent. The display boasts narrow bezels, maximizing screen real estate, and includes a physical webcam shutter for added privacy. The reverse notch on the lid provides a convenient grip for opening the laptop.
Keyboard and Trackpad: A Joy to Use
ThinkPad keyboard
The ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 features a superb keyboard. The full-sized keys offer excellent tactile feedback and comfortable travel, making typing a pleasure. The thoughtfully designed arrow cluster, with dedicated page up and down keys, further enhances usability. While it lacks the Trackpoint found on ThinkPads, the spacious and responsive mylar-coated trackpad provides a smooth and precise navigation experience.
Display and Audio: Functional, Not Flashy
ThinkPad display
The 14-inch, 1920×1200, 60Hz IPS LCD touchscreen is adequate for productivity tasks. While its 300-nit brightness might be limiting in bright environments, the display is sharp and provides a comfortable viewing experience. The bottom-firing stereo speakers deliver decent audio quality for casual use, but lack the bass and volume for a truly immersive experience.
Performance and Benchmarks: Efficient and Reliable
Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor (in the tested configuration), the ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 delivers solid performance for everyday tasks. While not a gaming powerhouse, it handles multitasking and productivity applications with ease.
ThinkBook PCMark results
ThinkBook Cinebench results
ThinkBook Handbrake results
ThinkBook 3DMark results
Benchmarks show competitive performance compared to similarly priced laptops. However, the integrated graphics are limited, making it unsuitable for demanding games. The 16GB RAM configuration provides a smooth multitasking experience, but the 8GB base model might feel limiting.
Battery Life: All-Day Power
ThinkBook battery life results
Despite its relatively small 60Wh battery, the ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 offers impressive battery life, lasting over 14 hours in our video playback test. The included 65W USB-C charger is compact and convenient, and the laptop also supports charging with third-party USB-PD chargers.
Conclusion: A Versatile Productivity Machine
The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 Gen 4 offers a compelling blend of performance, portability, and premium features at an attractive price. Its robust build, excellent keyboard, and long battery life make it a reliable companion for productivity on the go. While the display and integrated graphics aren’t top-of-the-line, they are perfectly adequate for its target audience. If you’re looking for a versatile and affordable laptop for work or study, the ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 Gen 4 is definitely worth considering.
