Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold Gen 1 review
The Lenovo Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold Gen 1 ranks as the #590 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 69. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #38-ranked display among 483 laptops. Consider the Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 3 or HP Spectre x360 16, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold Gen 1 is a promising yet flawed device. Its innovative design and vibrant OLED display are highlights, but the performance, battery life, and input devices fall short. The touchscreen is unresponsive, and the keyboard is cramped. The Intel i5 processor struggles with demanding tasks, and the 8GB of RAM limits its potential. Despite these issues, the X1 Fold's unique form factor and robust hinge make it a worthwhile investment for early adopters. However, the asking price is steep, starting at $2,300. Overall, it's a good idea to approach this device with caution and consider your needs before making a purchase.
Build
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold Gen 1's build is a mixed bag. The sturdy hinge mechanism that allows the device to fold into different positions is impressive, and the OLED 13.3-inch display is vibrant and sharp. However, the compact keyboard is too small for comfortable use and lacks a third USB-C port. The input devices are frugal, with only two USB-C ports available. Despite its innovative design, the build falls short of expectations in terms of practicality and usability. If you're after top-notch build, consider Lenovo ThinkPad X13 Gen 2.
Display
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold Gen 1's OLED 13.3-inch display is a standout feature. With vibrant colors and sharp text, it's a joy to gaze at for hours. The 4:3 aspect ratio adds to its uniqueness, making it perfect for productivity tasks. However, the brightness levels could be higher, maxing out at around 300 nits. This can make it difficult to use in bright environments. Additionally, the display is responsive to touch input with the included pen, but it feels slightly laggy at times. Overall, the display is a highlight of the X1 Fold Gen 1, making it perfect for those who value visual clarity and accuracy. It’s worth checking out Lenovo Yoga Book 9i, delivering remarkable display.
Performance
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold Gen 1's performance is a letdown. The Intel i5 L16G7 SOC struggles with anything beyond simple tasks like office app usage and note-taking. Switching between screen modes can be choppy, pausing when it should be smooth. The maximum 8GB of onboard memory severely limits the device to lightweight users only. This defeats the purpose of a portable, all-in-one device. Battery life is also weak, requiring mid-day charging sessions. For a device touting innovation and flexibility, its performance falls short of expectations. Give Lenovo 500e Yoga Chromebook Gen 4 a try—it’s designed to provide an unparalleled performance.
Battery and Charging
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold Gen 1's battery life falls short of expectations, lasting up to four hours with max brightness and best performance. Rapid charging via the 65W slim power adapter gets the device back up to speed in no time, reaching 30% charge in just 30 minutes or a full charge within 90 minutes. However, this convenience comes at the cost of frequent mid-day charges, making it less than ideal for portability. The battery life is disappointing considering the device's innovative design and premium price tag.
Connectivity
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold Gen 1 boasts impressive connectivity features. It comes with two USB-C ports, making it easy to charge the device or connect peripherals. The laptop also supports rapid charging, which can quickly top up the battery when needed. Additionally, it has 5G capabilities, allowing users to stay connected on-the-go. However, the lack of a third USB port and Thunderbolt 4 support is notable, limiting its practicality. Consider discovering the power of Lenovo ThinkPad Z13 Gen 2, featuring the latest advancements in connectivity.
Features
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold Gen 1 boasts a unique design with multiple positions to work in. The vibrant OLED 13.3-inch display features a useful 4:3 aspect ratio and sharp text, but could benefit from higher brightness levels. A durable hinge allows for smooth opening and closing of the bendable screen. The device comes with two USB-C ports, a micro USB port for keyboard charging, and a 65W power adapter with rapid charging capabilities. You might prefer Lenovo ThinkBook 13x Gen 2, designed with an upgraded features for a better experience.
Support and Maintenance
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold Gen 1's support and maintenance are lacking. The device's poor performance, weak battery life, and infuriating mini keyboard make it frustrating to use. With no software security tools, a detachable keyboard, or fingerprint sensor, users may feel insecure. Overall, the experience is subpar for its price tag.
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