When it comes to business laptops, the Lenovo ThinkPad series has long been a top contender, lauded for its durability, performance, and exceptional keyboard quality. Among these, the ThinkPad T490 stands out as a blend of modern technology and robust design. In this article, we will delve deep into the features, performance, and overall value of the T490, helping you determine if this laptop is the right fit for your needs.
Overview of the ThinkPad T490
The Lenovo ThinkPad T490 was introduced as part of Lenovo’s T series, aimed primarily at business professionals seeking reliable performance on the go. With its sleek design, impressive battery life, and powerful specifications, the T490 has attracted a diverse range of users—from corporate professionals to tech enthusiasts.
Design and Build Quality
One of the strengths of the ThinkPad series lies in its exceptional build quality. The T490 continues this tradition with a design that balances professionalism with modern aesthetics.
Dimensions and Weight
The T490 measures approximately 12.7 x 8.5 x 0.7 inches and weighs in at around 3.23 pounds. This lightweight and portable design makes it an excellent option for users who frequently travel or work in various locations.
Material and Durability
Crafted from a combination of magnesium and carbon fiber, the T490 is not only lightweight but also durable. This mix of materials promises to withstand the rigors of daily use, offering a military-grade certified durability that protects against bumps, spills, and adverse conditions.
Display Options
The ThinkPad T490 offers a range of display options, catering to different preferences and use cases.
Screen Quality
The base model features a 14-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS display that delivers vibrant colors and wide viewing angles. Users can also opt for a 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) screen for an even sharper resolution, perfect for graphic designers or those who frequently work with high-definition content.
Touchscreen Functionality
For added convenience, the T490 is available with touchscreen capabilities, which can enhance productivity by allowing for intuitive navigation and direct manipulation of content.
Performance and Specifications
In terms of performance, the ThinkPad T490 does not disappoint. Equipped with the latest Intel processors, it provides ample power for multitasking and demanding applications.
Processor Options
The T490 is outfitted with a range of Intel processors, from the i5 to the more powerful i7. This flexibility allows users to choose a configuration that best fits their professional needs:
- Intel Core i5-8265U
- Intel Core i7-8565U
Memory and Storage
The T490 supports up to 32GB of DDR4 RAM, ensuring smooth performance even with multiple applications running simultaneously. For storage, users can select from options that include SSDs ranging from 256GB to 1TB, providing both speed and ample space for files and programs.
Battery Life and Charging
One of the standout features of the T490 is its impressive battery life. It comes with a 50Wh battery in the standard configuration, which offers an impressive runtime of up to 16 hours, depending on usage. For those who require extended periods of power, there’s an optional 72Wh battery that can offer even more longevity.
Rapid Charge Feature
Lenovo has equipped the T490 with the Rapid Charge feature, allowing the battery to charge up to 80% in just one hour. This is particularly advantageous for professionals who need to quickly top off their device between meetings or during travels.
Keyboard and Trackpad
Another hallmark of the ThinkPad series is its exceptional keyboard quality. The T490 is no exception, featuring a spill-resistant keyboard with well-spaced, tactile keys that promote comfortable typing even during extended work sessions.
Trackpoint and Touchpad
In addition to the traditional touchpad, the T490 includes a TrackPoint—a small red joystick positioned in the keyboard center. This feature is favored by many professional users for its precision and ease-of-use, allowing for seamless navigation without removing hands from the keyboard.
Ports and Connectivity
The ThinkPad T490 is built with connectivity in mind, equipping users with a variety of ports for different needs.
| Port Type | Function |
|---|---|
| USB-C | Charging, DisplayPort 1.4, Data Transfer |
| USB 3.1 | Data Transfer |
| HDMI | External Display Connection |
| RJ-45 | Wired Networking |
| microSD Card Reader | Expand Storage |
With these extensive connectivity options, users can enjoy seamless integration with a wide array of peripherals, making it an excellent device for presentations and collaborative projects.
Security Features
In today’s digital landscape, security remains paramount. The ThinkPad T490 incorporates several security features to protect user data.
Fingerprint Reader
The T490 offers an optional fingerprint reader, providing an easy and secure way to log in, eliminating the need for traditional passwords.
TPM 2.0
With a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, the T490 enhances data security by providing hardware-based encryption to protect sensitive information, making it a safe choice for businesses dealing with confidential data.
Operating System and Software
Out of the box, the T490 typically runs Windows 10 Pro, a robust operating system that supports multitasking and productivity. Lenovo also includes its own set of software utilities, enhancing the user experience and performance.
Pros and Cons of the T490
While the ThinkPad T490 is an impressive machine, it does come with both advantages and disadvantages worth considering.
Pros
- Exceptional build quality and durability
- Impressive battery life with rapid charging
- Superior keyboard and typing experience
- Wide range of performance configurations
Cons
Conclusion: Is the T490 Good? Final Thoughts
After a comprehensive look at the Lenovo ThinkPad T490, it’s clear that this laptop has much to offer, particularly for business professionals and individuals needing a reliable, powerful device. With its sturdy construction, a range of modern specifications, and an excellent keyboard, the T490 stands out as a top-performing option in the market.
While it has its limitations, especially regarding graphics capability, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses for the majority of users. In conclusion, if you prioritize longevity, performance, and superior typing experience, the T490 is undoubtedly a worthy investment.
In the realm of business laptops, the ThinkPad T490 earns its reputation as a formidable contender, combining modern needs with classic IBM reliability. Whether you’re working remotely, attending meetings, or tackling projects on the go, this laptop is equipped to handle the demands of today’s dynamic work environments, making it a solid choice for a wide range of users.
What are the key specifications of the Lenovo ThinkPad T490?
The Lenovo ThinkPad T490 is equipped with a range of robust specifications that cater to both business professionals and casual users. It typically features a 14-inch display, available in FHD or UHD resolution options, supported by an anti-glare coating for enhanced visibility in various lighting conditions. The device is powered by Intel’s 8th Gen Core processors, offering varying configurations from i5 to i7, depending on user needs. Additionally, it can be configured with up to 32GB of RAM and up to 1TB PCIe SSD storage, ensuring smooth multitasking and adequate storage space for files and applications.
In terms of connectivity, the T490 comes with multiple USB ports, including Type-C, HDMI, and a headphone/microphone combo jack, facilitating seamless connections to external devices. It also features a fingerprint reader for increased security and is equipped with a reliable battery that can last an entire workday, making it a strong contender for professionals frequently on the move. Overall, its specifications are designed to meet the demands of various user preferences while maintaining the reliability that the ThinkPad series is known for.
How is the battery life on the Lenovo ThinkPad T490?
The battery life of the Lenovo ThinkPad T490 is one of its hallmark features, making it suitable for professionals who require a reliable machine throughout the day. Depending on the configuration and usage, users can expect battery performance to last anywhere between 12 to 15 hours, especially with the FHD display. The T490’s Power Bridge technology allows for the replacement of the external battery without powering down the device, adding to its convenience for on-the-go users who may need to keep working for extended periods.
Additionally, the T490 supports rapid charging, which can give the battery up to 80% charge in just an hour. This feature mitigates downtime significantly, allowing for quick power-ups during breaks or in unexpected situations. Whether you are in meetings, working remotely, or traveling, the ThinkPad T490’s battery life stands out as one of its most commendable features, enhancing productivity and providing peace of mind for busy users.
How does the Lenovo ThinkPad T490 compare to its predecessor?
The Lenovo ThinkPad T490 presents several improvements over its predecessor, the T480. One of the most notable upgrades is the design, where Lenovo has streamlined its overall appearance by adopting thinner bezels around the display, resulting in a more modern and sleek profile. Additionally, the T490 is lighter and more portable, making it an attractive option for professionals who value mobility without compromising performance.
Performance enhancements also play a significant role in how the T490 differs from the T480. The introduction of Intel’s 8th Gen processors provides improved processing power and efficiency, while the option for LPDDR3 RAM allows for better speed and multi-tasking capabilities. Furthermore, advancements in display technology offer brighter and more vibrant screen options, making the T490 not just a workhorse but also a multimedia-friendly device. Overall, the T490 represents a significant evolution in design, performance, and usability, catering to the demands of today’s users.
Is the keyboard of the ThinkPad T490 comfortable for extended use?
The keyboard of the Lenovo ThinkPad T490 is widely praised for its comfort and ergonomics, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. ThinkPad keyboards are known for their tactile feedback, and the T490 continues this tradition with slightly concave keycaps that offer an enjoyable typing experience. The travel distance of the keys is optimal, striking a balance that allows for fast and accurate typing without causing fatigue over long periods.
Additionally, the T490 features a spill-resistant design, providing added durability against accidental spills, which is essential for busy work environments. Many users also appreciate the inclusion of a TrackPoint pointing device, which can serve as a valuable alternative to a touchpad for those who prefer it. With its well-engineered keyboard, the T490 ensures that users can remain productive and comfortable, even during lengthy projects or tasks.
What are the gaming capabilities of the Lenovo ThinkPad T490?
While the Lenovo ThinkPad T490 is primarily designed for business and productivity tasks, it does offer some limited gaming capabilities. Equipped with integrated Intel UHD Graphics, the T490 can handle casual gaming and older titles quite well at lower settings. However, for more demanding games or modern AAA titles, the integrated graphics may struggle to deliver a satisfactory experience. Users who enjoy occasional gaming should consider this limitation and manage their expectations regarding graphic performance.
For users specifically looking for a gaming laptop, Lenovo offers dedicated gaming models under the Legion series, which are better suited for such purposes. However, if gaming isn’t your main focus and you require a versatile machine for work with the capability to handle casual gaming during downtime, the T490 can still suffice. This flexibility makes the T490 a solid choice for professionals who also enjoy gaming in their leisure time without seeking high-performance gaming specifications.
What is the overall build quality of the Lenovo ThinkPad T490?
The build quality of the Lenovo ThinkPad T490 is one of its standout features, consistent with the ThinkPad brand’s reputation for durability and reliability. Constructed with a robust magnesium alloy for the chassis and a carbon-fiber reinforced top cover, the T490 is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use and travel. Its MIL-STD 810G certification further underscores its resilience against extreme conditions, including temperature fluctuations, humidity, and vibration, making it an excellent choice for professionals who often work in various environments.
Moreover, the hinge mechanism of the T490 is designed for longevity, ensuring that the display remains stable during use and does not wobble. The thoughtful engineering also extends to the overall aesthetics, with a clean and professional look that suits business environments. This attention to detail in both aesthetics and durability solidifies the T490’s status as a reliable workstation, providing users with confidence in its performance and longevity.