Lenovo ThinkPad T490 is a 14-inch Ultrabook, which is both versatile and durable. This is a compact laptop that encloses powerful hardware including an 8th generation core i5 processor, SSD storage drive, a high RAM and long-lasting battery. In addition, it has the looks and properties of a ThinkPad. However, it has a smaller footprint, weighs less and is slightly thinner as compared to its processor ThinkPad T480.
The ThinkPad T490 boasts high-end specs as a 14-inch laptop at this price. But can it handle heavy software and withstand the tough tasks thrown towards it? This is a question that urged us to review this ThinkPad. We have tried to find out the strengths and weaknesses of this 14-inch device.
We reviewed the ThinkPad T490 – 20N20009UK for its design, functionality, and performance. In our review, we have looked into its specs to find out whether this device is worth the price. So, if you are thinking to purchase the ThinkPad T490 or want to know how it performs, continue to read.
Specs Sheet
Processor: Intel Quad-Core i5-8265U (8th Gen.) / 1.6GHz Max. Turbo Speed 3.9GHz
RAM: 8GB Storage: 256GB SSD
Display: 14-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) Resolution
Graphics: Intel UHD 620 Integrated
Battery: Up to 16 hours Weight: around 3.23 lbs (1.46 kg)
Operating System: Windows 10 Pro (64-bit)
SKU: 20N20009UK
Design
Lenovo ThinkPad T490 – 20N20009UK does not offer an exciting look. But this is something that is true about all the ThinkPads. The ThinkPad T490 offers around 180 degrees of movement, thanks to its dual-hinge system. Its entire chassis is covered with black paint which is soft-touch and could be a problem for many users. Its chassis easily picks up fingerprints and smudges, which is somewhat irritating.
With a thin profile of 17.9mm, the ThinkPad T490 weighs around 3.23 lbs (1.46 kg). Lenovo claims that it has tested the laptop against 200 quality checks and 12 military-grade requirements to ensure sturdiness. And we found the claim to be right as Lenovo ThinkPad T490 can handle the casual knocks and bumps.
Display
The ThinkPad T490 features a 14-inch wide display with a screen resolution of 1080p. It is a low-power FHD display but works well unless you want to work with a high-definition designing software. Its glossy finish can create issues while you are in a sun-drenched room. However, screen brightness makes up for this weakness with incredibly bright 500 nits.
Keyboard
ThinkPads are known for their remarkable keyboards and this one is no different. Lenovo has gone with a similar keyboard that we have seen on the ThinkPad T480. It has the perfect travel distance and the same cupped keys, which bottom out without feeling springy. In addition, Lenovo ThinkPad T490 features the ThinkPad TrackPoint system.
This is a touchpad with the same physical buttons, placed between the touchpad and keyboard. Then there is the iconic red pointer nub, present in the middle of the ThinkPad keyboard. The surface tracks perfectly and offers an overall smooth experience.
Connectivity
Lenovo ThinkPad T490 comes with a generous selection of ports as a business laptop. It houses a microSD card reader, a 3.5 audio jack, an HDMI 1.4, a Type-A USB 3.1, Thunderbolt 3 and a Type-C fast charging port. On the right side, there is an optional Smart Card reader along with another Type-A USB 3.1 and an RJ45 Ethernet port.
Performance
We reviewed the Lenovo ThinkPad T490 – 20N20009UK, which comes with an 8th generation i5 Whiskey Lake processor, a256GB SSD, an 8GB memory and Intel UHD graphics. These are impressive components and fulfil the requirements of today’s business laptop. The quad-core processor runs on the Windows 10 Pro operating system, offering a basic clock speed of 1.6GHz.
Intel’s Whiskey Lake CPU gives a little boost when it comes to performance. You won’t feel any lags unless you decide to run specialised designing tools. However, if you are planning to use such programs, Lenovo has added an additional slot that lets you upgrade your RAM.
Battery Life
Lenovo claims that on a single charge, the ThinkPad T490 could offers up to 16 hours of battery life. This is something impressive considering the price and specs but unfortunately does not live up to the expectations. Nevertheless, it still delivers you an all-day long performance when you are on the go.
Verdict
The ThinkPad T490 – 20N20009UK is an outstanding Ultrabook that fits the bill. This is undeniably an exciting business laptop that comes with high-end specs and features. An 8th-gen i5 CPU, SSD drive, 8GB memory and long-lasting battery are some features that make it a good business gadget.
