ThinkPad

ThinkPad is a line of business-oriented laptop computers and tablets designed, developed and marketed by Lenovo. It was initially sold by IBM until 2005. ThinkPads have a distinct black, boxy design language, inspired by a Japanese bento lunchbox, which originated in 1990 and is still used in some models.[5]

ThinkPad
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (2013)
DeveloperIBM (1992–2005)
LG/IBM (1996–2004,[1][2] only for South Korea branding)
Acer (1998–2002, i series only)
Lenovo (2005–present)
ManufacturerLenovo
TypeLaptop/Netbook
Release dateOctober 1992 (1992-10)
Units sold100 million+ (c. 2017)[3]
Operating systemWindows/Linux[4]
CPUAMD APU,
Intel Core i3/i5/i7/i9 or Xeon
GraphicsAMD Radeon (Pro), Nvidia GeForce/Quadro
Marketing targetBusiness purpose
PredecessorIBM PS/2 note
IBM PS/55note
WebsiteThinkPad

The ThinkPad line was first developed at the IBM Yamato Facility in Japan, and the first ThinkPads were released in October 1992.

ThinkPads have seen significant success in the business market. ThinkPad laptops have been used in outer space and for many years were the only laptops certified for use on the International Space Station.[6]

History

The ThinkPad was developed to compete with Toshiba and Compaq, who had created the first two portable notebooks, with an emphasis on sales to the Harvard Business School. The task of creating a notebook was given to the Yamato Facility in Japan, headed by Arimasa Naitoh (内藤在正, Naitō Arimasa, now Lenovo Fellow and vice president of Lenovo's PC and Smart Devices business unit),[7] a Japanese engineer and product designer who had joined IBM in the 1970s, now known as the "Father of ThinkPad".[8][9][10][11]

An original IBM THINK notepad (above), which inspired the laptop name, and the notepad refill information (below)

The name "ThinkPad" was a product of IBM's corporate history and culture. Thomas J. Watson, Sr., first introduced "THINK" as an IBM slogan in the 1920s. With every minicomputer and mainframe IBM installed (almost all were leased – not sold), a blue plastic sign was placed atop the operator's console, with the text "Think" printed on an aluminum plate.

For decades IBM had also distributed small notepads with the word "THINK" emblazoned on a brown leatherette cover to customers and employees.[12] The name "ThinkPad" was suggested by IBM employee Denny Wainwright, who had one such notepad in his pocket.[13][14] The name was opposed by the IBM corporate naming committee as all the names for IBM computers were numeric at that time, but "ThinkPad" was kept due to praise from journalists and the public.[15]

Early models

In April 1992, IBM announced the first ThinkPad model, the 700, later renamed the 700T after the release of three newer models, the 300, (new) 700 and 700C in October 1992.[14] The 700T was a tablet computer.[16][17]

This machine was the first product produced under IBM's new "differentiated product personality" strategy, a collaboration between Sapper and Tom Hardy, head of the corporate IBM Design Program.[18][19][20] Development of the 700C also involved a close working relationship between Sapper and Kazuhiko Yamazaki, lead notebook designer at IBM's Yamato Design Center in Japan and liaison between Sapper and Yamato engineering.[18][20]

This 1990–1992 "pre-Internet" collaboration between Italy and Japan was facilitated by a special Sony digital communications system that transmitted high-res images over telephone lines. This system was established in several key global Design Centers by Hardy so IBM designers could visually communicate more effectively and interact directly with Sapper for advice on their projects.[18][19][20] For his innovative design management leadership during ThinkPad development, Hardy was named "innovator of the Year 1992" by PC Magazine.[21]

The first ThinkPad tablet, a PenPoint-based device formally known as the IBM 2521 ThinkPad, was positioned as a developer's release. The ThinkPad tablet became available for purchase by the general public in October of the same year.

IBM marketed the ThinkPad creatively, through methods such as early customer pilot programs, numerous pre-launch announcements, and an extensive loaner program designed to showcase the product's strengths and weaknesses, including loaning a machine to archaeologists excavating the ancient Egyptian city of Leontopolis. The resulting report documented the ThinkPad's excellent performance under difficult conditions; "The ThinkPad is an impressive machine, rugged enough to be used without special care in the worst conditions Egypt has to offer."[13]

The first ThinkPads were very successful, collecting more than 300 awards for design and quality.[22][23][24]

Acquisition by Lenovo
The ThinkPad logo used by Lenovo since 2007 (left) and the original IBM ThinkPad logo (right)
Older ThinkPad logo used by IBM

In 2005, Chinese technology company Lenovo purchased the IBM personal computer business and the ThinkPad as a flagship brand along with it. Speaking about the purchase of IBM's personal computer division, Liu Chuanzhi said, "We benefited in three ways from the IBM acquisition. We got the ThinkPad brand, IBM's more advanced PC manufacturing technology and the company's international resources, such as its global sales channels and operation teams. These three elements have shored up our sales revenue in the past several years."[13]

Although Lenovo acquired the right to use the IBM brand name for five years after its acquisition of IBM's personal computer business, Lenovo only used it for three years.

Manufacturing

The majority of ThinkPad computers since the 2005 acquisition of the brand by Lenovo have been made in China, but Lenovo also employs ~300 people at a combined manufacturing and distribution center near its American headquarters. Each device made in this facility is labeled with a red-white-and-blue sticker proclaiming "Whitsett, North Carolina."[25]

In 2012, Lenovo produced a short run of special edition anniversary ThinkPads in Yonezawa, Yamagata, in partnership with NEC,[26] as part of a larger goal to move manufacturing from China to Japan.[27]

In 2014, although sales rose 5.6 percent from the previous year, Lenovo lost its position as the top commercial notebook maker.[25] However, the company celebrated a milestone in 2015 with the shipment of the 100 millionth unit of its ThinkPad line.[28]

Design
A closed ThinkPad's typical boxy black exterior
A typical IBM design example (2000's ThinkPad T20)

The design language of the ThinkPad has remained very similar throughout the entire lifetime of the brand. Almost all models are solid black inside and out, with a boxy, right-angled external case design. Some newer Lenovo models incorporate more curved surfaces in their design. Many ThinkPads have incorporated magnesium, carbon fiber reinforced plastic or titanium into their chassis.

The industrial design concept was created in 1990 by Italy-based designer Richard Sapper, a corporate design consultant of IBM and, since 2005, Lenovo.[18][29][19][30][31] The design was based on the concept of a traditional Japanese bento lunchbox, which revealed its nature only after being opened.[13][18][19] According to later interviews with Sapper, he also characterized the simple ThinkPad form to be as elementary as a simple, black cigar box and with similar proportions, with the same observation that it offers a 'surprise' when opened.[30][32]

Since 1992, the ThinkPad design has been regularly updated, developed and refined over the years by Sapper[30][33] and the respective teams at IBM and later Lenovo. On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of ThinkPad's introduction, David Hill authored and designed a commemorative book about ThinkPad design titled ThinkPad Design: Spirit & Essence.

This ThinkPad compact keyboard features a wired device, blue ThinkVantage button and Enter key, TrackPoint pointer and has no touchpad.

Features and technologies

Several unique features have appeared in the ThinkPad line, like drive protection, pointing stick or TPM chips.

While few features remain unique to the series, several laptop technologies originated on ThinkPads:[13]

Current
  • Lenovo Vantage
Main article: ThinkVantage Technologies

Early known as "IBM Access", later "ThinkVantage"; The Lenovo Vantage is a suite of computer management applications. This software can give additional support for system management (backup, encrypting, system drivers installation and upgrade, system monitoring and other). Currently some old features replaced by internal Windows 10 features.

IBM was the first company that supported a TPM module.[34] Modern ThinkPads still have this feature.

  • ThinkShutter

ThinkShutter is the branding of a webcam privacy shutter present in some ThinkPad notebook computers. It is a simple mechanical sliding cover that allows the user to obstruct the webcam's view.[35] Some add-on webcams and other laptop brands provide a similar feature. IdeaPad notebooks carry the TrueBlock branding for their privacy shutters.[36]

  • Spill-resistant keyboards

Some ThinkPad models have a keyboard membrane and drain holes (P series, classic T series and T###p models), and some have a solid rubber or plastic membrane (like X1 series and current T and X series), without draining holes.

Touchpad + TrackPoint combination; modern keyboard
  • UltraNav

Combination of a touchpad and the now-common for business laptops pointing stick, originated on the ThinkPad branded as the "TrackPoint."[28]

  • A roll cage frame and stainless steel hinges with 180° or 360° opening angle

The "roll cage" is a internal frame, designed to minimize motherboard flex (current P series and T##p series) or magnesium composite case (all other hi-end models). The display modules lacks a magnesium frames, and some 2012-2016 models have a common issue with a cracked plastic lid. The 180° hinges is typical, the 360° hinges is Yoga line basic feature.

  • OLED screens

Introduced in 2018 as hi-end display option for some models.

  • The Active Protection System

Option for some ThinkPad that still uses the 2.5" drive bay; These system uses an accelerometer sensor to detect when a ThinkPad is falling and shut down the hard disk drive to prevent damage.

  • Biometric fingerprint reader and NFC Smart card reader options

The fingerprint reader was introduced as an option in 2004.

  • Internal WWAN modules and Wi-Fi 3x3 MIMO

The Mobile broadband support is a common feature for most of actual ThinkPad models after 2006; the support of 3x3 MIMO is a common feature for most of hi-end models.

The some additional features (dock stations, UltraBay, accessories support) were listed in Accessories section.

Past
  • ThinkLight

External keyboard backlit, replaced by internal backlit; is an LED light located at the top of the LCD screen which illuminates the keyboard from above.

  • ThinkBridge

Only T, W and X series ThinkPad's feature (for some 2013-2018 models) — internal secondary battery (as succession of secondary UltraBay battery) that support a hot-swapping of primary battery.

IBM ThinkPad 701 TrackWrite keyboard in mid fold (also known as the "Butterfly" keyboard)
ThinkPad 7-row keyboard, replaced with a newer 'island' design in 2012
  • 7-row Keyboards
Original IBM keyboard design (1992-2012) — The original keyboard offered in the ThinkPad line until 2012, when it was swapped out for the chiclet style keyboard now used today.
IBM TrackWrite keyboard design — A unique keyboard designed by John Karidis introduced by Lenovo in 1995, used in the ThinkPad 701 series. When the machine is closed the keyboard is folded inwards, making the machine more compact. However when the machine is open and in use, it slides out, giving the user a normal sized keyboard. That keyboard, referred to as a butterfly keyboard, which is widely considered a design masterpiece and is in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.[37][38]
The ThinkPad 760 series also included an unusual keyboard design; the keyboard was elevated by two arms riding on small rails on the side of the screen, tilting the keyboard to achieve a more ergonomic design.

The keyboard design was replaced by the Chiclet style keyboard (2012-current) — The keyboard adopted by Lenovo in 2012 over the original IBM keyboard design. And does not support the ThinkLight to illuminate the keyboard, instead using a keyboard backlight. (Some ThinkPad models during the intermission period between the classic IBM design and the Lenovo chiclet design could be outfitted with both the backlit chiclet style keyboard and the ThinkLight.)

The introduced in 2004 line of hi-end displays with wide view angles and optional high resolution (up to 15" 1600x1200 or (rarely) 2048x1536 pixels). Partially dropped in 2008 (after partial defunct of BOE-Hydis display supplier), and reintroduced as ordinary IPS screen option in 2013.

Batteries

Some Lenovo laptops (such as the X230, W530 and T430) block third-party batteries. Lenovo calls this feature "Battery Safeguard". It was first introduced on some models in May 2012. Laptops with this feature scan for security chips that only ThinkPad-branded batteries contain. Affected Thinkpads flash a message stating "Genuine Lenovo Battery Not Attached" when third-party batteries are used.[39][40]

Use in space
ThinkPads in use aboard the International Space Station, including 760, 770, and A21p models

ThinkPads have been used heavily in space programs. NASA purchased more than 500 ThinkPad 750 laptops for flight qualification, software development, and crew training, and astronaut (and senator) John Glenn used ThinkPad laptops on his spaceflight mission STS-95 in 1998.[41]

An array of ISS laptops in the US lab

ThinkPad models used on Shuttle missions include:[41]

  • ThinkPad 750 (first use in December 1993 supporting the Hubble repair mission)
  • ThinkPad 750C
  • ThinkPad 755C
  • ThinkPad 760ED[42]
  • ThinkPad 760XD (ISS Portable Computing System)
  • ThinkPad 770
  • ThinkPad A31p (ISS Portable Computing System)
  • ThinkPad T61p[43]

The ThinkPad 750 flew aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour during a mission to repair the Hubble Space Telescope on 2 December 1993, running a NASA test program which checked if radiation in the space environment caused memory anomalies or other unexpected problems.[44] ThinkPads were also used in conjunction with a joystick for the Portable In-Flight Landing Operations Trainer (PILOT).[45]

ThinkPads have also been used on space stations. At least three ThinkPad 750C were left in the Spektr module of Mir when it depressurized,[41] and the 755C and 760ED were used as part of the Shuttle–Mir Program, the 760ED without modifications.[42] Additionally, for several decades ThinkPads were the only laptops certified for use on the International Space Station.[46]

ThinkPads used aboard the space shuttle and International Space Station feature safety and operational improvements for the environment they must operate in. Modifications include Velcro tape to attach to surfaces, upgrades to the CPU and video card cooling fans to accommodate for microgravity (in which warmer air does not rise) and lower density of the cabin air, and an adapter for the station's 28 volt DC power.[47]

Throughout 2006, a ThinkPad A31p was being used in the Service Module Central Post of the International Space Station and seven ThinkPad A31p laptops were in service in orbit aboard the International Space Station.[46] As of 2010, the Space Station was equipped with ThinkPad A31 computers and 32 ThinkPad T61p laptops.[43] All laptops aboard the ISS are connected to the station's LAN via Wi-Fi and are connected to the ground at 3 Mbit/s up and 10 Mbit/s down, comparable to home DSL connection speeds.[43][48]

Since a new contract with HP in 2016 provided a small number of modified ZBook laptops for ISS use, ThinkPads are no longer the only laptops flown on the ISS.[49][50]

Popularity

ThinkPads have enjoyed cult popularity for many years,[51][52][53] with older ThinkPad models remaining popular with enthusiasts and collectors, who see them as durable, highly usable machines.[54] Aftermarket parts have been developed for some models, such as the X60 and X200, for which custom motherboards with more modern processors have been created.[55]

Reviews and awards

Laptop Magazine in 2006 called the ThinkPad the highest-quality laptop computer keyboard available.[56] It was ranked first in reliability and support in PC Magazine's 2007 Survey.[57]

The Lenovo ThinkPad was the PC Magazine 2006 Reader's Choice for PC based laptops, and ranked number 1 in Support for PC based laptops.[58] The ThinkPad Series was the first product to receive PC World's Hall of Fame award.[59]

The Enderle Group's Rob Enderle said that the constant thing about ThinkPad is that the "brand stands for quality" and that "they build the best keyboard in the business."[25]

The ThinkPad X Tablet-series was PC Magazine Editor's Choice for tablet PCs.[60] The 1.6 kg (3.5 lb) ThinkPad X60s was ranked number one in ultraportable laptops by PC World. It lasted 8 hours and 21 minutes on a single charge with its 8-cell battery.[61] The Lenovo ThinkPad X60s Series is on PC World's Top 100 Products of 2006.[62] The 2005 PC World Reliability and Service survey ranked ThinkPad products ahead of all other brands for reliability.[63]

In the 2004 survey, they were ranked second (behind eMachines).[64] Lenovo was named the most environment-friendly company in the electronics industry by Greenpeace in 2007[65] but has since dropped to place 14 of 17 as of October 2010.[66]

The Lenovo ThinkPad T60p received the Editor's Choice award for Mobile Graphic Workstation from PC Magazine.[67] Lenovo ThinkPad X60 is the PC Magazine Editor's Choice among ultra-portable laptops.[68] The Lenovo ThinkPad T400-Series was on PC World's Top 100 Products of 2009.[69]

Current model lines

ThinkPad Yoga (2013–current)
Main article: ThinkPad Yoga
Lenovo's ThinkPad Yoga in tent mode

The ThinkPad Yoga is an Ultrabook-class convertible device that functions as both a laptop and tablet computer. The Yoga gets its name from the consumer-oriented IdeaPad Yoga line of computers with the same form factor. The ThinkPad Yoga has a backlit keyboard that flattens when flipped into tablet mode. This was accomplished on 1st generation X1 Yoga with a platform surrounding the keys that rises until level with the keyboard buttons, a locking mechanism that prevents key presses, and feet that pop out to prevent the keyboard from directly resting on flat surfaces. On later X1 Yoga generations, the keys themselves retract in the chassis, so the computer rests on fixed small pads. Touchpad is disabled in this configuration. Lenovo implemented this design in response to complaints about its earlier Yoga 13 and 11 models being awkward to use in tablet mode. A reinforced hinge was required to implement this design. Other than its convertible form factor, the ThinkPad Yoga retains standard ThinkPad features such as a black magnesium-reinforced chassis, island keyboard, a red TrackPoint, and a large touchpad.[70]

ThinkPad Tablet
Main article: ThinkPad Tablet
Lenovo ThinkPad Tablet

Released in August 2011,[71] the ThinkPad Tablet is the first in Lenovo's line of business-oriented Tablets with the ThinkPad brand. The tablet has been described by Gadget Mix as a premium business tablet.[72] Since the Tablet is primarily business-oriented, it includes features for security, such as anti-theft software, the ability to remotely disable the tablet, SD card encryption, layered data encryption, and Cisco Virtual Private Network (VPN).[73]

Additionally, the ThinkPad Tablet is able to run software such as IBM's Lotus Notes Traveler.[74] The stylus could be used to write notes on the Tablet, which also included software to convert this handwritten content to text.[74] Another feature on the Tablet was a drag-and-drop utility designed to take advantage of the Tablet's touch capabilities.[74] This feature could be used to transfer data between USB devices, internal storage, or an SD card.[74]

Slashgear summarized the ThinkPad Tablet by saying, "The stylus and the styling add up to a distinctive slate that doesn't merely attempt to ape Apple's iPad."[75]

ThinkPad Tablet 2
Main article: ThinkPad Tablet 2
Lenovo ThinkPad Tablet 2

In order to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the ThinkPad, Lenovo held a large party in New York where it announced several products, including the Tablet 2. Lenovo says that the ThinkPad Tablet 2 will be available on 28 October 2012 when Windows 8 is released.[76] The ThinkPad Tablet 2 runs the Windows 8 Professional operating system. It will be able to run any desktop software compatible with this version of Windows.[76][77]

The Tablet 2 is based on the Clover Trail version of the Intel Atom processor that has been customized for tablets. The Tablet 2 has 2 gigabytes of RAM and a 64 GB SSD. The Tablet 2 has a 10.1-inch IPS display with a 16:9 aspect ratio and a resolution of 1366 × 768. In a preview, CNET wrote, "Windows 8 looked readable and functional, both in Metro and standard Windows-based interfaces." A mini-HDMI port is included for video output. An 8-megapixel rear camera and a 2-megapixel front camera are included along with a noise-canceling microphone in order to facilitate video conferencing.[76][77]

ThinkPad 8
Main article: ThinkPad 8

Announced and released in January 2014, the ThinkPad 8 is based on the Intel's Bay Trail Atom Z3770 processor, with 2 GB of RAM and up to 128 GB of built-in storage. ThinkPad 8 has an 8.3-inch IPS display with a 16:10 aspect ratio and a resolution of 1920 × 1200 pixels. Other features include an aluminum chassis, micro-HDMI port, 8-megapixel back camera (with flash), and optional 4G connectivity. It runs Windows 8 as an operating system.[78]

ThinkPad 10
Main article: ThinkPad 10

Announced in May 2014, Lenovo ThinkPad 10 is a successor to the ThinkPad Tablet 2 and was scheduled to launch in the summer of 2014 along with accessories such as a docking station and external detachable magnetic keyboards. It used Windows 8.1 Pro as its operating system. It was available in 64 and 128 GB variants with 1.6 GHz quad-core Intel Atom Baytrail processor and 2 GB or 4 GB of RAM. It optionally supported both 3G and 4G (LTE). Display resolution was announced to be 1920 × 1200, paired with a stylus pen.[79]

ThinkPad X1 Tablet

The ThinkPad X1 Tablet is a fanless tablet powered by Core M CPUs. It is available with 4, 8 or 16 GB of LPDDR3 RAM and SATA or a PCIe NVMe SSDs with up to 1 TB. It has a 2160 × 1440 IPS screen and supports touch and pen input.[80]

ThinkPad 11e (2014–current)

The ThinkPad 11e is a "budget" laptop computer for schools and students with an 11-inch screen and without trackpoint. 11e Yoga is a convertible version of 11e.

E Series (2011–current)
Two E series ThinkPad's (E440)
Main article: ThinkPad E Series

The E Series is a low-cost ThinkPad line, designed for small business mass-market requirements, and currently contains only a 14" and 15" sub-lines. The E Series line of laptops replaced Lenovo's Edge Series, but somewhere (in some countries) currently (May 2019) offered as both of "Thinkpad Edge/E series" names.[81]

L Series (2010–current)
Main article: ThinkPad L series

The L Series replaced the former R Series, and is positioned as a mid-range ThinkPad offering with mainstream Intel Core i3/i5/i7 CPUs. The L Series have 3 sub-lines, the long-running 14" and 15.6" (and as launched this line had two models, L412 and the L512 in 2010); and as of 2018 there is also a 13" L380 available, which replaces the ThinkPad 13.

The main difference between the E Series and L Series is a basic MIL-STD-810 certification for L Series ThinkPads.

T Series (2000–current)
An ultraportable IBM X31 with an IBM T43 notebook
Main article: ThinkPad T series

The T Series historically had high-end features, such as magnesium alloy rollcages, high-density IPS screens known as FlexView (discontinued after the T60 series), 7-row keyboards, screen latches, the Lenovo UltraBay, and ThinkLight. Models included both 14.1-inch and 15.4-inch displays available in 4:3 and 16:10 aspect ratios.

Since 2012, the entire ThinkPad line was given a complete overhaul, with modifications such as the removal of separate buttons for use with the TrackPoint (**40 series - 2014, then reintroduced **50 series - 2015), removal of separate audio control buttons, removal of screen latch, and the removal of LED indicator lights. Models starting from the **40 series featured a Power Bridge battery system, which had a combination of a lower capacity built-in battery and a higher capacity external battery, enabling the user to switch the external without putting the computer into hibernation. However, beginning with the 2019 **90 series models, the external battery was removed in favor of a single internal battery. Also, non-widescreen displays are no longer available, with 16:9 aspect ratio as the only remaining choice.

The most famous T-Series ThinkPad is the Tx20 Series of ThinkPad. The Laptops came in two editions: 15"(T520) or a 14"(T420). These ThinkPads are widely known to be the last ThinkPads to use the classic 7-row keyboard. Even though Enterprises and Governments have mostly phased out this 2011 ThinkPad, this is still one of the most popular models with I.T users (T-Series or Otherwise.) The Tx20 line of laptops is also known for its outstanding Linux compatibility.

Over time, The T-Series ThinkPad's purpose has changed. Initially, the T-Series ThinkPad was meant to have high-end business features and carry a 10-20 percent markup over the other ThinkPads. Starting with the T400, The ThinkPad T-Series became a less of a high-end business laptop and became more suited as a mobile workstation, becoming similar to the W-Series or P-Series ThinkPads. Achieving similar performance to the W-Series, but with a 5-10 percent smaller profile than the W-Series ThinkPads. In 2013, the T440 introduced another major shift in The ThinkPad T-Series. The ThinkPad became more of an overall office machine than a mobile workstation. By today's standards, The ThinkPad T-Series is thicker than most of its competitors.

X Series (2000–current)
Main article: ThinkPad X series
Main article: ThinkPad X1 series
Two X60 units (Tablet and regular non-Tablet versions) running Libreboot

The X Series is the main high-end ultraportable ThinkPad line, offering a lightweight, highly portable laptop with moderate performance. The current sub-lines for the X series includes:

  • 13" X13 (mainstream);
    • X13 Yoga (convertible sub-line),
  • 14" X1 Carbon (premium sub-line),
    • X1 Yoga (premium convertible sub-line), and
  • 15" X1 Extreme (premium sub-line).

The daughter line includes the X1 Tablet (not to be confused with the 2005-2013 X Series tablets).

The mainstream current "workhorse" models is a X13 and X13 Yoga, the 13" successors of the classic discontinued 12" line of Lenovo X Series ThinkPads.

The premium 14"/15" thin-and-light line were the 13.3" ThinkPad models (the X300/X301) with ultrabay CD-ROM and removable battery, but are now replaced by the modern premium X1-series ultrabook line, such as the X1 Carbon, X1 Yoga, and X1 Extreme sub-series.

IBM ThinkPad X61t, the classic "Tablet" laptop

Discontinued mainstream lines such as the 12" X200(s), X201(s), and X220 models could be ordered with all of the high-end ThinkPad features (like Trackpoint, ThinkLight, a 7-row keyboard, a docking port, hot-swappable HDD, solid magnesium case and optional slice battery). The discontinued 12.5" X220 and X230 still featured a roll cage, a ThinkLight, and an optional premium IPS display (the first IPS display on a non-tablet ThinkPad since the T60p), but the 7-row keyboard was offered only with the X220. However, it lacked the lid latch mechanism which was present on the previous X200 and X201 versions. The discontinued slim 12" line contained only X200s and X201s with low power CPUs and high resolution displays, and X230s with low power CPUs. The 12.5" X series ThinkPads (such as X240 and later) had a more simplified design, and last 12" X280 model had only the Trackpoint feature, partially magnesium case and simplified docking port.

The obsolete low-cost 11.6" (netbook line) X100e and X120e were are all plastic, lacking both the latch and the ThinkLight, and using a variant of the island keyboard (known as chiclet keyboard) found on the Edge series. The X100e was also offered in red in addition to blue, and white in some countries.[82] Those were more like high-end netbooks, whereas the X200 series were more like full ultraportables, featuring Intel Core (previously Core 2 and Celeron) series CPUs rather than AMD netbook CPUs.

The X Series with "tablet" suffixes is an outdated variant of the 12" X Series models, with low voltage CPUs and a flip-screen tablet resistive touchscreen. These include the traditional ThinkPad features, and have been noted for using a higher quality AFFS-type screen with better viewing angles compared to the screens used on other ThinkPads.

P Series (2015–current)
Main article: ThinkPad P series

The P Series line of laptops replaced Lenovo's W Series and reintroduced 17" screens to the ThinkPad line. The P Series (excluding models with 's' suffix) is designed for engineers, architects, animators, etc. and comes with a variety of "high-end" options. All P Series models come included with fingerprint readers. The ThinkPad P Series includes features such as dedicated magnesium roll cages, more indicator LED lights, and high-resolution displays.

Accessories

ThinkPad Stack (2015–current)

The ThinkPad Stack line of products includes accessories designed for portability and interoperability. This line includes external hard drives, a wireless router, a power bank, and a Bluetooth 4.0 speaker. Each Stack device includes rubber feet, magnets, and pogo-pin power connections that allow the use of a single cable. The combined weight of all the Stack devices is slightly less than two pounds. The Stack series was announced in January 2015 at the International CES.[83] The Stack series of accessories was expanded at the 2016 International CES to include a 720p resolution projector with 150 lumens of brightness and a wireless charging station.[84]

The Stack has a "blocky, black, and rectangular" look with the ThinkPad logo. It shares a common design language with ThinkPad laptop computers.[85]

Dock Stations (1993–current)
Docking station for a T60, T61 and T400/T500 laptops

Dock stations finder

Current docking stations (or docks) add much of the functional abilities of a desktop computer, including multiple display outputs, additional USB ports, and occasionally other features. This allows the ThinkPads to be connected and disconnected from various peripherals quickly and easily.

Recent docks connect via a proprietary connector located on the underside of the laptops; or via USB C.

UltraBay (1995–2018)
Main article: ThinkPad UltraBay

The internal replaceable (hot-swappable) CD-drive bay that supports a list of optional components, such as a CD-/DVD/Blu-ray drives, hard drive caddies, additional batteries, or device cradles.

Slice batteries (2000-2012)

Some classic models (IBM and early Lenovo T and X series) can support an additional slice battery instead of the UltraBay additional battery.

UltraPort (2000–2002)
Main article: IBM ThinkPad UltraPort
Lenovo ThinkPad USB 3.0 Secure Hard Drive

ThinkPad USB 3.0 Secure Hard Drive

A hard drive made by Lenovo in 2014 that requires the input of a 4 digit PIN for use.[86]

Thinkpad Keyboards (external)
Classic 7-row UltraNav keyboard
Classic 7-row keyboard
With original IBM keyboard design (1992-2012)
The original external ThinkPad-like keyboard offered as a IBM UltraNav keyboard as successor of IBM Model M13 keyboard.
Chiclet style keyboard (2012-current)
The keyboard adopted by Lenovo in 2012 over the original IBM keyboard design.

ThinkPad Mice

ThinkPlus charger


Historical models

ThinkPad 235

The Japan-only ThinkPad 235 (or Type 2607) was the progeny of the IBM/Ricoh RIOS project. Also known as Clavius or Chandra2, it contains unusual features like the presence of three PCMCIA slots and the use of dual camcorder batteries as a source of power. Features an Intel Pentium MMX 233 MHz CPU, support for up to 160 MB of EDO memory, and a built-in 2.5 in (64 mm) hard drive with UDMA support. Hitachi marketed Chandra2 as the Prius Note 210.

ThinkPad 240
Main article: IBM ThinkPad 240

The ultraportable ThinkPad 240 (X, Z) started with an Intel Celeron processor and went up to the 600 MHz Intel Pentium III. In models using the Intel 440BX chipset, the RAM was expandable to 320 MB max with a BIOS update. Models had a 10.4 in (260 mm) screen and an 18 mm (0.71 in) key pitch (a standard key pitch is 19 mm (0.75 in)). They were also one of the first ThinkPad series to contain a built-in Mini PCI card slot (form factor 3b). The 240s have no optical disc drives and an external floppy drive. An optional extended battery sticks out the bottom like a bar and props up the back of the laptop. Weighing in at 2.9 lb (1.3 kg), these were the smallest and lightest ThinkPads ever made.

300 Series

The 300-series (300, 310, 340, 345, 350, 360, 365, 380, 370, 385, 390 (all with various sub-series)) was a long-running value series starting at the 386SL/25 processor, all the way to the Pentium III 450. The 300 series was offered as a slightly lower-price alternative from the 700 series,[87] with a few exceptions.

The ThinkPad 360PE was a unique model in the series in that it could be used as a regular laptop, or transform into a tablet by flipping the monitor on top of itself. Retailing for $3,699 in 1995, the 360PE featured a touch sensitive monitor that operated with the stylus; the machine could run operating systems that supported the touch screen such as PenDOS 2.2.[88]

  • An IBM ThinkPad 310ED and a 760ED, both from the 1996–97 era. The 760ED boasts the unique flip-up keyboard that was standard on all 760 ThinkPads
  • The 360PE opened in its 'natural' mode
  • The 360PE in mid-fold showing how the monitor rotates over the unit
  • The 360PE folded in its 'tablet' mode allowing the laptop to be held as a tablet would
  • The 360PE's keyboard opens up on hinges for easy serviceability
  • An IBM ThinkPad 390 running Windows 98 SE
  • An IBM ThinkPad 390 with the lid closed
  • IBM ThinkPad 390 charging/standby indication lights
  • Back view of an IBM ThinkPad 390, showing the PS/2, DB15, DB9, VGA and charger ports
  • IBM ThinkPad 365XD w/External Floppy Drive running Windows 95

500 Series

The 500-series (500, 510, 560 (E, X, Z), 570 (E)) were the main line of the ultraportable ThinkPads. Starting with the 486SLC2-50 Blue Lightning to the Pentium III 500, these machines had only a hard disk on board. Any other drives were external (or in the 570's case in the UltraBase). They weighed in at around 4 lb (1.8 kg).

600 Series
Main article: IBM ThinkPad 600

The 600-series (600, 600E, and 600X) are the direct predecessors of the T series. The 600-series packed a 12.1 in (310 mm) SVGA or a 13.3 in (340 mm) XGA TFT LCD, Pentium MMX, Pentium II or III processor, full-sized keyboard, and optical bay into a package weighing roughly 5 lb (2.3 kg). IBM was able to create this light, fully featured machine by using lightweight but strong carbon fiber composite plastics. The battery shipped with some 600-series models had a manufacturing defect that left it vulnerable to memory effect and resulted in poor battery life, but this problem can be avoided by use of a third-party battery.

700 Series
External image
730T

The 700-series was a hi-end ThinkPad line; The released models (700T, 710T and 730T tablets; 700, 701, 720, 730, 750, 755, 760, 765, 770 laptops with various sub-models) can be configured with the best screens, largest hard drives and fastest processors available in the ThinkPad range;[89][90] some features can be found only on a 700 series models,[91] and was the first successful ThinkPad introduced in 1992 (that was a tablet PC 700T model without a keyboard and a mouse).[92][93]

800 Series

The ThinkPad 800-series (800/820/821/822/823/850/851/860) were unique as they were based on the PowerPC architecture rather than the Intel x86 architecture. Most of the 800 Series laptops used the PowerPC 603e CPU, at speeds of 100 MHz, or 166 MHz in the 860 model, although the earliest 800 (Type 6020), the direct ancestor of the 850, used a 603 and was apparently only offered to developers.[94] All units used SCSI-2 instead of IDE hard disks, and the ID of every SCSI device on the system could be configured in the cursor driven GUI-based BIOS. Another unusual aspect of the series is their unique startup chime, reminiscent of Apple Macintosh computers of the time.

These line have a predecessor model (RS/6000 N40 with 50 MHz PowerPC 601 CPU and with different design, based on a Tadpole platform), and the siblings of 851 or 860 models (RS/6000 851 and 860) also released.

The PowerPC ThinkPad line was considerably more expensive than the standard x86 ThinkPads — even a modestly configured 850 cost upwards of $12,000.[95] On the other hand, the 800, 850 and 851 (and later the 860 and 861) were capable of supporting an optional web camera, one of the first commercially available webcams available on a laptop.[96] These units could also record PAL and NTSC signals with onboard composite connectors, and the batteries contained internal processors to regulate power usage for optimized battery longevity.[97]

All of the PowerPC ThinkPads could run Windows NT 3.5 and 4.0,[98] OS/2 Warp Connect PowerPC Edition, AIX 4.1.x, and Solaris Desktop 2.5.1 PowerPC Edition. Many of these PowerPC operating systems and the corresponding compilers are very scarce and hard to find. However, it is also possible to run certain PowerPC versions of Linux on the 800 Series.[99]

800820821/822/823850851860
System Type 6020 6040 7247 6042 7249 7249
Announced 1994/08/11[94] 1995/06/19 1996/02/20 1995/06/19 1996/02/20 1996/10/08
Withdrawn Un­known 1996/03/20 1996/07/26 1996/03/20 1996/11/08 1998/01/30
CPU 603 @ 66 MHz 603e @ 100 MHz 603e @ 100 MHz 603e @ 100 MHz 603e @ 100 MHz 603e @ 166 MHz
GPU GT10 GT10 GT10 GT10 GT10 GT20
Memory Bus 32 bit 32 bit 32 bit 64 bit 64 bit 64 bit
Maximum Memory 80 MB 48 MB 48 MB 96 MB 96 MB 96 MB
Display 10.4" 640 × 480 10.4" 640 × 480 or 800 × 600 10.4" 640 × 480 or 800 × 600 10.4" 640 × 480 or 800 × 600 10.4" 640 × 480 or 800 × 600 12.1" 1024 × 768
Video Capture built-in optional optional built-in built-in built-in
  • An IBM ThinkPad 850 with its custom IBM-branded Logitech Chroma mouse
  • The PowerPC ThinkPad logo as found on the 850 carrying case; similar to Lenovo's redesigned logo with the red dotted i

WorkPad

Based on ThinkPad design although branded WorkPad, the IBM WorkPad z50 was a Handheld PC running Windows CE, released in 1999.[100]

i Series (1998–2002)
ThinkPad i series 1998-2001
1998 1999 2000 2001
15.0" I1492 i1592
14.1" I1560 I1483
i1472 i1721 i1480 I1482
i1452 i1552 i1400 i1460 I1562 i1800[101]
13.3" i1157
i1450 i1451 i1720 I1260 I1370 I1200 i1300
13.0" i1400 i1420 I1421 I1422 I1230
12.1" i1410 i1411 i1412 i1512 i1540 I1541 I1442 I1542 I1210 I1330 I1200 i1300
I1620 I1250
12.0" I1441
10.4" i1124 S30 S31

The ThinkPad i Series was introduced by IBM in 1999 and was geared towards a multimedia focus with many models featuring independent integrated CD players and multimedia access buttons.[102] The 1400 and 1500 models were designed by Acer for IBM under contract and featured similar hardware found in Acer laptops (including ALi chipsets, three way audio jacks and the internal plastics painted with a copper paint).[103] Some of the i Series ThinkPads, particularly the Acer developed models, are prone to broken hinges and stress damage on the chassis.

One notable ThinkPad in the i Series lineup are the S3x (S30/S31) models: featuring a unique keyboard and lid design allowing a standard size keyboard to fit in a chassis that otherwise wouldn't be able to support the protruding keyboard. These models were largely only available in Asia Pacific. IBM offered an optional piano black lid on these models (designed by the Yamato Design lab).[104] This is the only ThinkPad since the 701C to feature a special design to accommodate a keyboard that's physically larger than the laptop and also the only ThinkPad (aside from the Z61) to deviate away from the standard matte lid.

  • The ThinkPad S31 with the piano black finish option sitting on top of a Z61t; both ThinkPads deviate from the usual matte black.
  • The S31 with the lid open showing the unique protruding keyboard; no touchpad was offered, to keep the laptop compact.
  • An IBM ThinkPad 1400 i Series with the integrated CD-Player and customizable multimedia access buttons

A Series (2000–2004)
IBM ThinkPad A 2000-2004
case screen A2* A3*
14" 12" Low-cost A20m A21m A22m
13" A22e
14"  
Standard
 		 A20m A21m A22m A30 A31
15" 15"
Performance A20p A21p A22p A30p A31p

The A-series was developed as an all-around productivity machine, equipped with hardware powerful enough to make it a desktop replacement. Hence it was the biggest and heaviest ThinkPad series of its time, but also had features not even found in a T-series of the same age. The A-series was dropped in favor of the G-series and R-series.

The A31 was released in 2002 as a desktop replacement system equipped with: A Pentium 4-M processor clocked at 1.6, 1.8, 1.9, or 2.0 GHz (max supported is a 2.6 GHz), An ATI Mobility Radeon 7500, 128 or 256 MB of PC2100 RAM (officially upgradable to 1 GB but can be unofficially upgraded to 2 GB), IBM High Rate Wireless (PRISM 2.5 Based, can be modified to support WPA-TKIP) and equipped with a 20, 30, or 40 GB hard disk drive.

R Series (2001–2010, 2018-2019)

The R Series was a budget line, beginning with the R30 in 2001 and ending with the R400 and R500 presented in 2008.

An IBM Thinkpad R60 from 2006 (right) next to a T60 from preceding year

The successor of a R400 and R500 models is a ThinkPad L series L412 and L512 models.

A notable model is the R50p with an optional 15" 2048 × 1536 IPS LCD screen (introduced in 2003).[105]

ThinkPad R 2001-2010
R3* R4* R5* R6* R*00
case screen 3:4 screens
14" 13" Low-cost R40e
Standard R30 R31 R40
14" Low-cost R40e R50e R51e
Standard R30 R31 R32 R40 R50 R51 R52 R60
15" Low-cost R50e R51e R60e
R61i
Standard R40 R50 R51 R52 R60 R61
Performance R50p
16:10 screens
14,1" Standard R61 R400
15,4" Low-cost R61i
R61e
Standard R61 R500
  • Lenovo ThinkPad R500
  • Lenovo ThinkPad R500 (lid closed)
  • IBM ThinkPad R51
  • IBM ThinkPad R32

The R series reintroduced in 2018 (for Chinese market only) with the same hardware as E series models, but with aluminum display cover, discrete GPU, TPM chip and fingerprint reader.

G Series (2003–2006)

The G-series consisted of only three models, the G40, G41 and G50. Being large and heavy machines, equipped with powerful desktop processors, this line of ThinkPads consequently served mainly as replacements for desktop computers.

Z Series (2005–2007)

The Z series was released as a high-end multimedia laptop; as a result this was the first ThinkPad to feature a widescreen (16:10 aspect ratio) display.[106][107] The Z-Series was also unique in that certain models featured an (optional) titanium lid.[108] Integrated WWAN and a webcam were also found on some configurations. The series has only ever included the Z60 (Z60m and Z60t) and Z61 (Z61m, Z61t and Z61p); the latter of which is the first Z-Series ThinkPad with Intel "Yonah" Dual Core Technology. The processor supports Intel VT-x; this is disabled in the BIOS but can be turned on with a BIOS update. Running fully virtualised operating systems via Xen or VMware is therefore possible.[109] Despite the Z61 carrying the same number as the T61, the hardware of the Z61 is closer to a T60 (and likewise the Z60 being closer to a T43).

  • The Z61 featuring a titanium lid (note the duality of colors)
  • The ThinkPad Z61t accompanied by a silver ScrollPoint Pro
  • The ThinkPad Z61t opened showing the internal keyboard

ThinkPad Reserve Edition (2007)

The "15-year anniversary" Thinkpad model (based on a X60s laptop). This model was initially known inside of Lenovo as the "Scout". This was the name of the horse ridden by Tonto, the sidekick from the 1950s television series The Lone Ranger. Lenovo envisioned the Scout as a very high-end ThinkPad that would be analogous to a luxury car. Each unit was covered in fine leather embossed with its owners initials. Extensive market research was conducted on how consumers would perceive this form factor. It was determined that they appreciated that it emphasised warmth, nature, and human relations over technology. The Scout was soon renamed the ThinkPad Reserve Edition. It came bundled with premium services including a dedicated 24-hour technical support hotline that would be answered immediately. It was released in 2007 and sold for $5,000 in the United States.[110][111]

SL Series (2008–2010)
ThinkPad SL400

The SL Series was launched in 2008 as a low-end ThinkPad targeted mainly geared toward small businesses.[112] These lacked several traditional ThinkPad features, such as the ThinkLight, magnesium alloy roll cage, UltraBay, and lid latch, and use a 6-row keyboard with a different layout than the traditional 7-row ThinkPad keyboard; also, SL-series models have IdeaPad-based firmware. Models offered included 13.3" (SL300), 14" (SL400 and SL410) and 15.6" (SL500 and SL510).

W Series (2008–2015)
17" W700 compared to a 15" T500 and a compact 12" X200 models
Main article: ThinkPad W Series

The W-series laptops were introduced by Lenovo as workstation-class laptops with their own letter designation, a descendant of prior ThinkPad T series models suffixed with 'p' (e.g. T61p), and are geared towards CAD users, photographers, power users, and others, who need a high-performance system for demanding tasks.. The W-series laptops were launched in 2008, at the same time as the Intel Centrino 2, marking an overhaul of Lenovo's product lineup. The first two W-series laptops introduced were the W500 and the W700.

Previously available were the W7xx series (17" widescreen model), the W500 (15.4" 16:10 ratio model), the W510 (15.6" 16:9 ratio model), and W520 (15.6" 16:9 ratio model). The W700DS and the W701DS both had two displays: a 17" main LCD and a 10" slide-out secondary LCD. The W7xx series were also available with a Wacom digitizer built into the palm rest. These high-performance workstation models offered more high-end components, such as quad core CPUs and higher-end workstation graphics compared to the T-series, and were the most powerful ThinkPad laptops available. Until the W540, they retained the ThinkLight, UltraBay, roll cage, and lid latch found on the T-series. The W540 release marked the end of the lid latch, ThinkLight, and hot-swappable UltraBays found in earlier models.

The ThinkPad W-series laptops from Lenovo are described by the manufacturer as being "mobile workstations", and suit that description by being physically on the larger side of the laptop spectrum, with screens ranging from 15" to 17" in size. Most W-series laptops offer high-end quad-core Intel processors with an integrated GPU as well as an Nvidia Quadro discrete GPU, utilizing Nvidia Optimus to switch between the two GPUs as required. Notable exceptions are the W500, which has ATI FireGL integrated workstation-class graphics, and the W550s, which is an Ultrabook-specification laptop with only a dual-core processor. The W-series laptops offer ISV certifications from various vendors such as Adobe Systems and Autodesk for CAD and 3D modeling software.

The ThinkPad W series has been discontinued and replaced by the P series mobile workstations.

Edge Series (2010)
Main article: ThinkPad E series

The Edge Series was released early in 2010 as small business and consumer-end machines. The design was a radical departure compared to the traditional black boxy ThinkPad design, with glossy surfaces (optional matte finish on later models), rounded corners, and silver trim. They were also offered in red, a first for the traditionally black ThinkPads. Like the SL, this series was targeted towards small businesses and consumers, and lack the roll cage, UltraBay, lid latch, and ThinkLight of traditional ThinkPads (though the 2011 E220s and E420s had ThinkLights).[113] This also introduced an island-style keyboard with a significantly different layout.

Models included 13.3" (Edge 13), 14" (Edge 14), and 15.6" (Edge 15) sizes. An 11.6" (Edge 11) model was offered, but not available in the United States.[114] The latest models of E series can be offered with Edge branding,[115] but this naming is optional and uncommon.

S Series (2012–2014)

The S Series is positioned as a mid-range ThinkPad offering, containing ultrabooks derived from the Edge Series. As of August 2013, the S Series includes S531 and S440 models; their cases are made of aluminum and magnesium alloy, available in silver and gunmetal colors.[116]

ThinkPad Twist (2012)

The Lenovo ThinkPad Twist (S230u) is a laptop/tablet computer hybrid aimed at high-end users. The Twist gets its name from its screen's ability to twist in a manner that converts the device into a tablet. The Twist has a 12.5" screen and makes use of Intel's Core i7 processor and SSD technology in lieu of a hard drive.[117]

In a review for Engadget Dana Wollman wrote, "Lately, we feel like all of our reviews of Windows 8 convertibles end the same way. The ThinkPad Twist has plenty going for it: a bright IPS display, a good port selection, an affordable price and an unrivaled typing experience. Like ThinkPads past, it also offers some useful software features for businesses lacking dedicated IT departments. All good things, but what's a road warrior to do when the battery barely lasts four hours? Something tells us the Twist will still appeal to Lenovo loyalists, folks who trust ThinkPad's build quality and wouldn't be caught dead using any other keyboard. If you're more brand-agnostic, though, there are other Windows 8 convertibles with comfortable keyboards – not to mention, sharper screens, faster performance and longer battery life."[118]

ThinkPad Helix (2013–2015)
Main article: ThinkPad Helix
The ThinkPad Helix on display in Hong Kong

The Helix is a convertible laptop satisfying both tablet and conventional notebook users. It uses a "rip and flip" design that allows the user to detach the display and then replace it facing in a different direction. It sports an 11.6" Full HD (1920 × 1080) display, with support for Windows 8 multi-touch. As all essential processing hardware is contained in the display assembly and it has multitouch capability, the detached monitor can be used as a standalone tablet computer. The Helix's high-end hardware and build quality, including Gorilla Glass, stylus-based input, and Intel vPro hardware-based security features, are designed to appeal to business users.[119]

In a review published in Forbes Jason Evangelho wrote, "The first laptop I owned was a ThinkPad T20, and the next one may very likely be the ThinkPad Helix which Lenovo unveiled at CES 2013. In a sea of touch-inspired Windows 8 hardware, it's the first ultrabook convertible with a form factor that gets everything right. The first batch of Windows 8 ultrabooks get high marks for their inspired designs, but aren't quite flexible enough to truly be BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) solutions. Lenovo's own IdeaPad Yoga came close, but the sensation of feeling the keyboard underneath your fingers when transformed into tablet mode was slightly jarring. Dell's XPS 12 solved that problem with its clever rotating hinge design, but I wanted the ability to remove the tablet display entirely from both of those products."[120]

ThinkPad 13 (2016–2017)

The ThinkPad 13 (Also known as the Thinkpad S2 in Mainland China) is a "budget" model with a 13-inch screen. Versions running Windows 10 and Google's Chrome OS were options. The most powerful configuration had a Skylake Core i7 processor and a 512 GB SSD. Connectivity includes HDMI, USB 3.0, OneLink+, USB Type-C, etc. It weighs 1.0 kg (2.3 lb) and is 9.7 mm (0.38 in) thick.[121] As of 2017, a second generation Ultrabook model has been released with up to a Kaby Lake Core i7 processor and a FHD touchscreen available in certain countries. This lineup was merged into the L-Series in 2018, with the L380 being the successor to the 13 Second Generation.

25th anniversary Retro ThinkPad (2017)
25th Anniversary Retro ThinkPad on display in Hong Kong

Lenovo released the 25th anniversary Retro ThinkPad 25 in October 2017. The model is based on the T470, the difference being it having the 7-Row "Classic" keyboard with the layout found on the −20 Series, and the logo received a splash of colour reminiscent of the IBM era. The last ThinkPad models with the 7-row keyboard were introduced in 2011.[122]

A Series (2017–2018)

In September 2017, Lenovo announced two ThinkPad models featuring AMD's PRO chipset technology – the A275 and A475.[123] This sees the revival of the A Series nameplate not seen since the early 2000s when ThinkPads were under IBM's ownership, however it is likely the "A" moniker emphasised that it uses AMD technology rather than comparative product segment (workstation class) of the previous line.[124]

While this isn't the first time Lenovo had offered an AMD derived ThinkPad, it is the first to be released as an alternative premium offering to the established T Series and X Series ThinkPads, which use Intel chipsets instead.

A275 and A475
The A275 is a 12.5" ultraportable based on the Intel derived X270 model. Weighing in at 2.9 pounds (1.31 kg) this model features AMD Carrizo or Bristol Ridge APU's, AMD Radeon R7 graphics and AMD DASH (Desktop and mobile Architecture for System Hardware) for enterprise computing.
The A475 is a 14" mainstream portable computer based on the Intel derived T470 model. Weighing at 3.48 pounds (1.57 kg), like the A275 it features AMD Carrizo or Bristol Ridge APU's, AMD Radeon R7 graphics and AMD DASH (Desktop and mobile Architecture for System Hardware) for enterprise computing.
A285 and A485
The A285 is a 12.5" laptop which is an upgraded version of the A275. Weighing in at 2.78 lb (1.26 kg), this model utilizes an AMD Raven Ridge APU with integrated Vega graphics, specifically the Ryzen 5 Pro 2500U. The laptop also contains a Discrete Trusted Platform Module (dTPM) for data encryption and password protection, supporting TPM 2.0. Optional security features include a fingerprint scanner and smart card reader. The display's native resolution can be either 1366 × 768 or 1920 × 1080 depending on the configuration.
The A485 is a 14" laptop which is an upgraded version of the A475. Weighing 3.63 lb (1.65 kg), this model utilizes AMD's Raven Ridge APU's with integrated Vega graphics. This model can use multiple models of Raven Ridge APU's, unlike the A285. The laptop also contains a Discrete Trusted Platform Module (dTPM) for data encryption and password protection, supporting TPM 2.0. Optional security features include a fingerprint scanner and smart card reader. The display's native resolution can be either 1366 × 768 or 1920 × 1080 depending on the configuration.

See also

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