Lenovo has launched the latest iterations of its most budget-friendly ThinkPad series targeted towards enterprise customers, introducing significant updates with the Lenovo ThinkPad L14 Gen 5 (L14 G5) and the Lenovo ThinkPad L16 Gen 1 (L16 G1). These new models are not simple spec bumps from their predecessors, the ThinkPad L14 Gen 4 and L15 Gen 4, but rather a comprehensive overhaul that signifies the end of 16:9 screens in the ThinkPad lineup.
The transition to the 16:10 aspect ratio comes with the L14 G5 and the entirely new L16 G1, marking a significant shift towards more vertical screen real estate. Especially noteworthy is the move to a 16-inch display size for the L16 G1. The design refresh also brings enhanced features from the higher-end ThinkPad T series to the L series. These include an improved typing experience with swapped FN/Ctrl keys and tactile markings on the keys, with a larger touchpad to boot. The aesthetics also get a touch-up, featuring a debossed ThinkPad logo and black hinges, although the L series forgoes the camera bump seen on the T series models in favor of a subtler reverse-notch design.
Internally, the new L series takes a significant leap forward with Intel Core Ultra processors available in both U and H series options alongside AMD CPU configurations. Shifting from the older 5000 series, the latest models upgrade to AMD Ryzen 7035 processors, paving the way for DDR5 memory, PCIe NVMe Gen 4, and USB4 support—augmented further with RDNA2 graphics over the outdated Vega integrated GPUs.
Regarding memory, the L14 G5 and L16 G1 offer dual DDR5-SO-DIMM slots supporting up to 64 GB of RAM. In a notable shift from past design choices, Lenovo opts for larger M.2 2280 SSDs over the previous M.2 2242 form factor. Battery options include 46.5 Wh or 57 Wh variants, keeping productivity high on the move. While the display resolution remains at WUXGA (1920 x 1080), enhancements like increased brightness up to 400 cd/m² on the L14 G5 provide an improved viewing experience.
In terms of connectivity, an additional third USB-A port has been added to these models, a distinctive feature not found in other current ThinkPads. However, as these are budget-oriented devices, certain features such as 5G and WiFi 7 remain exclusive to the more premium T series offerings.
The Lenovo ThinkPad L14 G5 and ThinkPad L16 G1 are poised to hit the market at accessible price points, with the AMD versions expected in March starting at $999, and Intel versions following in April, with a base price of $1,179.
This recent announcement by Lenovo not only strengthens their enterprise lineup by embracing more modern design aesthetics and functional improvements but also indicates the brand’s commitment to improving user experience while maintaining affordability in their product range.
