Lenovo ThinkPad Edge 13 is a new Lenovo ThinkPad lineup and produced. Inheriting the reputation of the entrepreneurial laptops once owned by IBM, the ThinkPad Edge seems to be geared towards young, dynamic, mobile users. The machine is sold in three colors: black, red and black gloss.
Angles are also rounded with silver edges rather than angles like the traditional ThinkPad line. Edge is decorated with two ThinkPad logos on both the top and the inside. In it, the dot in the letter I becomes a power light.
The ThinkPad Edge is 33.2 x 22.8 x 3 cm in detail and weighs in at 1.7kg with a 6-cell battery that makes it easy to carry around on long trips.
Edge owns a lot of ports, the left edge includes Kenshington lock, VGA, HDMI, LAN, USB. Right edge is the power connector, 2 USB ports, headphone jack and 5 types of memory card reader. Unfortunately, this model does not own eSATA high speed data exchange ports. In addition, optical drive is not integrated to reduce the weight and size of the machine will cause a lot of inconvenience to the user.
In the meantime, the front edge does not have a built-in connector but swims down to make room for the speaker system below. Due to the small size to prioritize the “mobile” and convenient to hear only in the room size is not large, less than 20 m2. However, the sound quality of the speakers is quite good, the sound is clear and the bass is slightly clear and the speakers do not play stereo.
Unlike the traditional ThinkPads, Edge has a built-in chiclet keyboard with curved styling. But this style of design has made new users hard to get used to. When manipulation on the keyboard feels “embarrassed” hands and press the keys are not standard. However, bounce and sensitivity are good. Another difference in this keyboard is Lenovo has boldly change the button function F1, F2, F3 …. into the secondary button (ie want to use these keys the user must simultaneously press both Fn function key in the bottom left corner of the keyboard).
In addition, the machine also owns multi-touch mouse pad. Throughout the test, the sensitivity of the touchpad is very good, no fingerprints, swipe operation to zoom accurately only one thing is regrettable that the two mouse keys slightly deep subsidence when used.
The ThinkPad Edge has a 13.3-inch, 1366-by-135-pixel screen that displays a very fresh and crisp color. When testing high definition video, HD and Full HD can be tracked from the viewing angle, even from 90 degrees. This can be considered as the advantage of the machine compared to other models of screen laptops often narrow view. However, when used in the office with neon lights, the screen is still quite annoying balloon, the only way to overcome the problem is to maximize the screen brightness to prevent glare.
The new Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools management tool comes with a number of useful features, including password management, hardware driver updates, battery management, and PC performance (displays the remaining usage time or the time it will charge the battery when the power cord is plugged in). Backup and restore data, manage and protect the sock.
Performance
The performance of the Lenovo ThinkPad Edge 13 is a key factor in determining its suitability for various tasks. The specific model under review is equipped with an Intel Core i5 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 320GB hard drive. This configuration aims to deliver a balanced performance for everyday computing needs.
Processor
The ThinkPad Edge 13 is powered by an Intel Core i5-520M processor, which operates at a base clock speed of 2.4 GHz. This dual-core processor is designed to handle a range of tasks, from web browsing and office work to more demanding applications.
The Core i5-520M provides a good balance of performance and power efficiency. It is capable of handling multitasking and moderate computing tasks with ease. While it may not be as powerful as newer or higher-end processors, it delivers sufficient performance for typical business and productivity applications.
Memory and Storage
The ThinkPad Edge 13 comes with 4GB of DDR3 RAM, which is adequate for handling everyday tasks and multitasking. The RAM allows for smooth operation of standard applications, including web browsers, office software, and email clients. Users who require additional memory for more intensive tasks or multitasking may consider upgrading to a higher capacity.
The laptop is equipped with a 320GB hard drive, providing ample storage space for documents, media files, and software. While the traditional hard drive offers sufficient capacity, it may be slower compared to modern solid-state drives (SSDs). Users seeking faster data access and improved system responsiveness may consider upgrading to an SSD for enhanced performance.
Graphics Performance
The ThinkPad Edge 13 features integrated Intel HD Graphics, which provides basic graphics capabilities for everyday use. The integrated GPU handles tasks such as video playback and light photo editing with reasonable efficiency. However, it may struggle with more demanding graphics applications or modern games.
For users whose needs are limited to standard tasks, such as web browsing and office work, the integrated graphics are sufficient. Those requiring higher graphics performance for gaming or advanced multimedia tasks may need to consider laptops with dedicated GPUs.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for portable laptops, and the ThinkPad Edge 13 is designed to offer practical usage time between charges. The laptop is equipped with a 6-cell, 52Wh battery.
Battery Performance
Under typical usage conditions, including web browsing, document editing, and moderate multimedia consumption, the ThinkPad Edge 13 offers a battery life of approximately 4 to 6 hours. This range can vary based on factors such as screen brightness, application usage, and power settings. The battery life is suitable for a few hours of use on a single charge, making it adequate for short trips or a day of moderate use.
The laptop’s power management features allow users to adjust settings to optimize battery life based on their needs. For users requiring extended battery life, the ThinkPad Edge 13 provides options to manage power consumption effectively. However, it may not last as long as some newer models with more advanced battery technology.
Connectivity
Connectivity is essential for modern laptops, and the ThinkPad Edge 13 provides a range of ports and interfaces to support various peripherals and devices.
Ports and Interfaces
- USB Ports: The ThinkPad Edge 13 includes three USB ports: two USB 2.0 ports and one USB 3.0 port. The USB 3.0 port offers faster data transfer speeds compared to USB 2.0, enabling quicker file transfers and improved connectivity with modern peripherals.
- HDMI Port: The laptop features an HDMI port, allowing users to connect to external displays, projectors, or TVs. This is useful for presentations, multimedia playback, or extending the screen for enhanced productivity.
- VGA Port: The ThinkPad Edge 13 also includes a VGA port, providing compatibility with older monitors and projectors. This legacy port is helpful for users who need to connect to devices that do not support HDMI.
- SD Card Reader: An SD card reader is included, enabling users to transfer photos and other media from memory cards. This feature is convenient for users who work with digital media.
- Ethernet Port: The laptop features an Ethernet port for wired network connections, ensuring reliable and high-speed internet access in environments where wireless connectivity may be less stable.
- Audio Jacks: The ThinkPad Edge 13 includes a headphone/microphone combo jack for audio input and output, suitable for calls, multimedia, and general audio needs.
Wireless Connectivity
The ThinkPad Edge 13 supports Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n and Bluetooth 2.1, providing reliable wireless connectivity for internet access and peripheral connections. The Wi-Fi performance is generally strong, offering good range and speed for most environments. Bluetooth 2.1 enables wireless connections to peripherals such as mice, keyboards, and headphones.
Keyboard and Touchpad
The keyboard and touchpad are essential components of the ThinkPad Edge 13, contributing to the overall user experience.
Keyboard
The ThinkPad Edge 13 features a full-sized keyboard with a comfortable layout and well-spaced keys. The keys have a reasonable amount of travel and tactile feedback, making typing enjoyable for extended periods. The keyboard layout includes dedicated function keys and a numeric keypad, providing convenience for users who frequently enter numerical data.
The keyboard does not include backlighting, which may be a drawback for users who often work in low-light environments. However, the overall typing experience is positive, and the keyboard is suitable for both casual and professional use.
Touchpad
The touchpad on the ThinkPad Edge 13 is large and responsive, supporting multi-touch gestures such as pinch-to-zoom and two-finger scrolling. The touchpad’s surface is smooth and accurate, making it easy to navigate through applications and documents. The touchpad includes physical buttons for left and right clicks, which some users may prefer over integrated touchpad buttons.
User Experience
Everyday Use
For everyday computing tasks, the Lenovo ThinkPad Edge 13 offers a satisfactory experience. Its performance is adequate for activities such as web browsing, document editing, and multimedia consumption. The Intel Core i5 processor, combined with 4GB of RAM, provides a balanced performance for multitasking and handling standard applications.
The laptop’s build quality and design contribute to a positive user experience. The compact size and lightweight nature make it easy to transport, while the robust construction ensures durability. The keyboard’s comfortable typing experience and responsive touchpad enhance productivity and usability.
Portability and Travel
The ThinkPad Edge 13 is designed with portability in mind, making it a suitable choice for users who need a laptop for travel or commuting. Its slim profile and lightweight build make it easy to carry, and the battery life of approximately 4 to 6 hours provides sufficient power for short trips and daily use.
The laptop’s durability ensures that it can withstand regular handling and transportation, while its solid construction provides protection for the internal components. The ThinkPad Edge 13 is a reliable companion for users who require a portable and dependable device.
Multimedia and Entertainment
For multimedia and entertainment purposes, the ThinkPad Edge 13 performs adequately. The 13.3-inch display offers a clear and functional viewing experience for watching videos and viewing photos. While the resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels may be considered modest by modern standards, it provides sufficient detail for standard multimedia consumption.
The integrated Intel HD Graphics handle video playback and light photo editing with reasonable efficiency. However, users seeking higher performance for gaming or advanced multimedia tasks may find the graphics capabilities somewhat limiting. The built-in speakers deliver acceptable audio quality for casual listening, though external speakers or headphones may be preferred for a better audio experience.
Business and Productivity
The ThinkPad Edge 13 excels in business and productivity environments. Its compact design and solid build quality make it an excellent choice for professionals who need a reliable and portable laptop for work. The comfortable keyboard, responsive touchpad, and practical connectivity options contribute to a productive work environment.
The inclusion of Windows 7 Professional and Lenovo’s ThinkVantage tools adds value for business users, providing features that enhance productivity, security, and system management. The laptop’s performance is suitable for handling office applications, web browsing, and email, making it a practical choice for everyday business tasks.
Final Thoughts
The Lenovo ThinkPad Edge 13 is a well-rounded ultraportable laptop that offers a balance of performance, portability, and business features. Its sleek design, solid build quality, and practical connectivity options make it a suitable choice for users who need a reliable and functional laptop for everyday tasks.
While the ThinkPad Edge 13 may not feature the highest-resolution display or the most advanced graphics capabilities, it provides a dependable solution for standard computing needs. The laptop’s design, battery life, and business-oriented features contribute to a positive overall experience, making it a viable choice for both casual and professional use.
For users seeking a laptop with a good balance of portability and performance, the ThinkPad Edge 13 is a strong contender. Its design, build quality, and functionality make it a practical and capable device for a variety of tasks. While it may have some limitations compared to more recent models, it remains a solid choice for its intended audience.