When a new Intel platform launches, we typically see the consumer PCs updated with the new tech first. Business customers that make up the bulk of the demand for enterprise-grade PCs aren’t in a hurry to buy new models, as they go through purchasing cycles and don’t clamor quite like us consumers. Lenovo finally made public their refreshed ThinkPad laptops a few months ago and today we are excited to bring you the first real discount on them.
After watching the last couple iterations of the famed ThinkPad lineup contain few changes or enhancements beyond the new processors, we are excited to see a complete refresh and the first sizeable discount to boot. The T540p replaces the outgoing T530 and brings a lot of new stuff to the table.
The design has changed in ways that may seem subtle to some, with a shift away from a blackhole-esque dark paint job to a more gunmetal or carbon gray paint job. Many of the underpinnings are still just as robust and feature-filled, with ultra-durable 180-degree hinges and an internal magnesium roll cage for added stability.
Intel’s new Haswell processors power up this high performance machine, with options up to the quad-core i7-4900MQ available. Intel HD graphics are standard, though it doesn’t specify which version, with an Nvidia GT 730M 1GB card available for upgrade. All the usual storage and expansions options are here, including a 512GB SSD, though us consumers might appreciate a Blu-ray option to take advantage of the gorgeous screen.
The screen is perhaps the real star of this show, with three choices and one clear winner. While a base 1366×768 HD panel is still available, you’ll undoubtedly want more pixels on such an expansive display. The 1080p option is probably tempting and a good screen on past 15-inch ThinkPads, but the undeniable winner is the new “3K” IPS LCD panel.
While it’s not quite 3K at 2880×1620 resolution, it’s still quite excellent and a leader in this class of laptops. It also uses IPS technology for extra-wide viewing angles and richer colors, something we are universally a fan of. This $370 option will be worth every penny and with this sale you get 15% off all upgrades as well. Pricing starts $832 for the base model, but expect to break the $1000 mark with a faster CPU and screen upgrade.
Post a Comment