Lenovo’s latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

As a seasoned professional who spends countless hours in virtual meetings, I must say that the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9 has become my trusted companion. The clarity of its camera and the crispness of its audio have made me feel like I’m right there in the room with my colleagues, even when I’m miles away!


One well-known brand that often springs to mind when considering a dependable business laptop or 2-in-1 device is Lenovo. This is largely due to their ThinkPad X1 Series, which has been a trusted professional choice for many years. The ThinkPad line is particularly renowned for its distinctive TrackPoint, a red analog stick integrated into the keyboard.

For the past two weeks, I’ve been utilizing my evenings and workdays exclusively with the latest Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 (Gen 9). This 2-in-1 comes with an optional Lenovo Slim Pen and can transform into a tablet by folding it back. I’ve put it through different performance tests to evaluate its capabilities, and here are my findings about this versatile device.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9: Price and specs

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

Pricing & specifications highlights

  • This is an expensive laptop that is designed specifically for business. 
  • There are plenty of configuration options to help you get the perfect device for your needs. 
  • At the time of writing, you can purchase it at Lenovo’s official storefront alongside third-parties like Amazon. 
  • Value rating: 4/5

For the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 (Gen 9) business laptop from Lenovo, the initial manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) is quite high, standing at $2,965.00. However, it’s worth noting that Lenovo often offers deals, and at the moment of this writing, you can find this laptop starting at a discounted price of $2,082.60 directly from Lenovo. Nonetheless, its high cost might be a deterrent for some users.

As a tech enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that when personalizing the laptop configuration, you get to pick from a selection of AI-enhanced Intel Core Ultra processors. These include the Ultra 5 125U, Ultra 5 135U, Ultra 7 155U, and Ultra 7 165U. However, it’s important to note that the graphics will always be an integrated Intel chip. In terms of memory and storage, you can choose from 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB LPDDR5 (built-in) RAM, paired with either a 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB M.2 2280 PCIe solid-state drive (SSD).

In my analysis, this latest ThinkPad X1 model offers two display options: a standard IPS touchscreen of 14 inches, delivering a resolution of 1920 x 1200 at 60Hz, or an enhanced OLED panel boasting a 2880 x 1800 resolution, HDR 500 support, and a swift 120Hz refresh rate. Moreover, this device is an Intel Evo platform, providing seamless smartphone connectivity through Intel Unison, quick wake functionality, and speedy charging.

If you often find yourself on the move, it could be beneficial to invest in built-in mobile broadband connectivity, which gives the ThinkPad X1 a Quectel RM650N-GL 6G Sub6 chip and allows for eSIM compatibility. Additionally, there are several other customizable features such as pre-installed Adobe software and various security suite options.

As a seasoned tech enthusiast with years of experience under my belt, I have to say that the configuration I recently came across is quite impressive. The Intel Core Ultra 7 155U processor, paired with a 15W base TDP, 16GB RAM, and a whopping 1TB SSD, makes for a powerhouse of a machine that’s sure to handle even the most demanding tasks with ease. The addition of Windows 11 Pro only sweetens the deal, as I’ve found this operating system to be quite user-friendly and efficient.

The latest Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 (Gen 9) can be bought from the official Lenovo store or through retailers like Amazon. Interestingly, it seems to be unavailable in stores such as Best Buy and Walmart, which may suggest that this model caters more towards business users rather than general consumers.

Recommended configuration

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9: Design and build

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

Build quality and design highlights

  • While its design will not garner much attention, the ThinkPad line with its iconic red TrackPoint does stand out. 
  • This ThinkPad has a sturdy design with a steel-gray aluminum chassis. The top has a matte finish, while the sides look like brushed metal.  
  • Well-made, two-point hinges allow the display to be pushed back into tablet mode without straining the device.
  • Built-in magnets on the left side allow the laptop to hold the optional Lenovo Slim Pen in both tablet and laptop mode. 
  • When in tablet mode, the keyboard deactivates, so you can’t accidentally send inputs. 
  • Design rating: 5/5

Although the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 (Gen 9) doesn’t boast a showy exterior, its distinctive red TrackPoint within the keyboard gives it a unique edge against rival models. Whether you view this as an advantage or a disadvantage depends on your personal feelings towards Lenovo’s TrackPoint. However, it’s worth noting that this laptop series is often found in professional settings.

In summary, this laptop boasts a robust structure and an attractive design constructed from recycled steel-gray aluminum. The top surface has a matte finish, while the sides exhibit a brushed metal texture. A notable advantage is that it resists fingerprint smudges, maintaining its clean appearance even after prolonged usage.

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

As a seasoned tech enthusiast who has gone through countless devices over the years, I can confidently say that this 2-in-1 device is a game-changer for me. The sturdy and well-built hinges that pivot on both display and keyboard sides make it a reliable companion for my busy life, whether I’m working on the go or relaxing at home. The convenience of having a laptop and tablet in one sleek device has made multitasking a breeze, and I no longer have to worry about accidentally sending inputs when the device is in tablet mode because the keyboard deactivates automatically. This versatile gadget has become an essential tool for me, enhancing my productivity and making my life easier in so many ways.

The border surrounding the screen may not be as streamlined as some other laptops, yet it doesn’t appear bulky or awkward. Consistent with Lenovo laptops, a slight overhang exists on top of the screen, facilitating easier opening when closed. Regarding thickness, this laptop isn’t the thinnest when the cover is closed, but it can comfortably accommodate standard laptop bags and backpacks.

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

For business laptops, this model offers a more extensive array of ports than many competitors, including Dell. It boasts two USB-A ports and two USB-C ports to accommodate various add-ons. Additionally, it has an HDMI 2.1 port for linking the laptop to a monitor. Regarding Ethernet connection, it’s not included, which is usual for non-gaming laptops today. However, you can still enjoy Wi-Fi 6E support.

The provided sample features the optional Lenovo Slim Pen. Magnets on the left edge of the laptop help to keep the pen conveniently close, whether I’m using the ThinkPad in tablet or laptop configuration. Personally, I find the pen’s flat design reminiscent of a carpenter pencil, which differs from my preferred round shape. Nevertheless, its slimness allows it to lie more smoothly against the ThinkPad’s side.

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

As a seasoned digital artist who spends countless hours sketching and designing on my tablet, I’ve come across various styluses over the years. This one, with its two clickable buttons for easier access to controls in different programs, is quite impressive. The hover function that allows me to see a reticle appear on the screen for more accurate strokes, even when hovering just a few centimeters away from the display, is a game-changer.

I spent several hours experimenting with digital art using Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Fresco on the Lenovo Slim Pen to gauge its capabilities. Although it offers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt detection, it seems better tailored for business tasks and navigation rather than intricate creative endeavors.

Is the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 (Gen 9) good for digital drawing?

As a tech enthusiast, I can tell you that with my ThinkPad X1 2-in-1, I can certainly dabble in digital art, thanks to the Lenovo Slim Pen or any other compatible stylus. But let me be clear, there are numerous other devices out there, like tablets and other 2-in-1s, that offer a more refined drawing experience compared to my ThinkPad X1 2-in-1.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9: Software

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

Software highlights

  • When configuring the laptop, you can choose from several different add-on programs, such as Adobe Creative Cloud, Adobe Photoshop Elements, Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft 365, and Microsoft Office.
  • You also have the choice of adding a Norton or McAfee security software package. 
  • Lenovo Commercial Vantage is an intuitive software that is pre-installed. It is the primary program that you use to adjust settings, check system performance, download updates, and get assistance.
  • Most laptops, including this one, come with some bloatware, so you might want to shut some programs down. 
  • Software rating: 4/5

Like many laptops, this one has several pre-installed applications. While you may only require a handful of these, you can opt to disable the unnecessary software to enhance your device’s performance. One crucial application is Lenovo Commercial Vantage. It serves as a hub for modifying settings, monitoring system performance, downloading updates, and seeking assistance. Additionally, it boasts a Wi-Fi security tab that Lenovo claims helps the laptop distinguish safe wireless networks from potentially harmful ones, which can be particularly useful when traveling for business and relying on unfamiliar internet connections.

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

Beyond that, you could additionally benefit from Lenovo View, an “innovative Image Processing and Computer Vision Software” that upgrades your camera capabilities while ensuring a higher level of privacy. This software allows you to customize the brightness, contrast, and color of your video quality. I’ve also activated features like background blur and Auto-framing, which adjusts the focus to keep me centered during video conferences by panning and zooming. For those who frequently present, it may be worth utilizing Virtual Presenter, a feature that displays an image of yourself in the top left corner of the screen while your presentation is being shared. As you can see, these are practical features tailored for virtual work meetings.

Interestingly, the Lenovo View also includes a wellness feature. When activated, it prompts me to maintain good posture or take regular breaks from screen use to protect my eyes from excessive screen time. This is particularly beneficial for individuals like myself who often find themselves working long hours.

When you purchase this laptop directly from Lenovo, you have the option to add various software packages to your device at checkout. For example, you could choose Adobe Photoshop Elements 2024, or opt for a bundle that includes both Photoshop Elements 2024 and Premiere Pro Elements 2024. You might also consider Adobe Acrobat (standard or professional) or an Adobe Creative Cloud membership. For additional protection, you can even subscribe to Norton or McAfee security software if you wish.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9: Display

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

Display highlights

  • When choosing your configuration, you have the choice of going with a 14-inch IPS touchscreen or an OLED touchscreen. 
  • The ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 (Gen 9) IPS display produced a decent 100% of sRGB, 75% of AdobeRGB, and 76% of P3 in a color gamut test.
  • Despite not being an OLED, the IPS option produces excellent contrast, but it doesn’t get as bright as would be preferred.
  • Display rating: 4/5

In the device I assessed, a touchscreen with an IPS display (1920 x 1200 resolution at 60Hz) was incorporated. To evaluate its performance, I attached a SpyderX colorimeter and conducted a color gamut test. The screen managed to render 100% of sRGB, 75% of AdobeRGB, and 76% of P3, which is acceptable but not particularly outstanding. However, the color saturation and tones are sufficient for most common work tasks.

That said, if you tend to work within creative programs, you’ll want to go with the OLED (2880 x 1800) 120Hz touchscreen rather than this IPS one. You can learn more in my OLED vs QD-OLED vs QLED vs AMOLED vs Mini LED guide. The long and short of it is that OLEDs offer extremely good color range and contrast, which is enhanced by their ability to produce true black. As such, they are ideal for gaming and creative programs like Adobe Creative Cloud. 

It appears that the IPS panel on this device is quite sensitive to touch; I often find myself navigating websites more comfortably by directly touching the screen instead of using a trackpad, stylus, or TrackPoint.

In addition, I conducted a light and dark intensity evaluation, revealing that the IPS screen maxes out at 375 nits of brightness. Regrettably, this falls short of Lenovo’s claimed 400 nits. Consequently, the display might be challenging to view under direct sunlight, making it less suitable for individuals who often work outdoors.

As someone who spends countless hours in front of screens for work and leisure, I can confidently say that a high-contrast display is essential for me. The IPS touchscreen you mentioned truly delivers in this aspect, even at its brightest setting, it maintains an authentic black hue rather than a dark grey one. This feature significantly enhances the visual appeal of images and videos, making my screen time more enjoyable whether I’m participating in video conferences or running programs. The improved contrast adds a dynamic touch to imagery that is truly appreciated by someone like me who relies heavily on technology for work and entertainment.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9: Performance and thermals

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

Performance & thermals highlights

  • While this laptop offers good enough performance for basic work tasks and video calls, it isn’t very impressive overall. 
  • The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 often performed lower than expected in various benchmarks. 
  • Performance rating: 3/5

As an observer, I’d say this Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 serves me well for everyday tasks such as web browsing, using basic applications, joining virtual meetings, and handling common work duties. However, I noticed it didn’t quite meet my expectations in several benchmark tests.

As a longtime user of various laptops and a tech enthusiast who values performance, I must say that the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 left me rather underwhelmed. Having tested its Intel low-power CPU using Geekbench 6, I was disheartened to see a single-core score of merely 1,545 and a multi-core score of just 8,112. This is the lowest Core Ultra 7 result I’ve encountered in my experience, even dipping below the Yoga Book 9i (Gen 9)’s performance, which was already lackluster compared to previous 13th Gen i7-1355U equivalents. The ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 simply didn’t live up to my expectations in terms of raw computing power, which is a crucial aspect for me given the nature of my work and lifestyle.

It’s important to point out that ARM-based Windows laptops equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor generally perform exceptionally well in CPU benchmark tests compared to Core Ultra laptops. For example, the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9) achieved a single-core score of 2,426 and a multi-core score of 13,687, while the Surface Laptop 7 surpassed these figures with a single-core score of 2,832 and a multi-core score of 14,557. This evidence suggests that if you’re seeking more powerful performance, opting for a Snapdragon X Elite laptop over a Core Ultra one could be a wise choice.

Following Geekbench 6, I switched to Cinebench R24 to evaluate the CPU’s rendering power. Unfortunately, it managed a single-core score of merely 97 and a relatively poor multi-core score of 407. This performance places it among the weakest in our tested devices for CPU rendering, even falling below the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i (Gen 9), which shares the same 15W processor. In contrast, the lowest-scoring Snapdragon X Elite laptop we’ve assessed using Cinebench R24 has delivered substantially better outcomes – a single-core score of 123 and a multi-core score of 833. This multi-core score significantly surpasses that of the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1, which is more than double.

Given its basic Intel Graphics card, I didn’t anticipate stellar performance from the graphics test. Yet, curiosity got the better of me, so I ran 3DMark Time Spy anyway. Unsurprisingly, it delivered a decent score. In fact, it outperformed laptops equipped with Intel Iris Xe graphics cards. This suggests that the laptop can manage simple graphic tasks, but heavy-duty creative software or graphically demanding video games might strain it too much.

During Crossmark evaluations for overall system performance, the laptop garnered a satisfactory rating, positioning it somewhere between the ThinkBook 16p and the contemporary Lenovo Yoga 7 equipped with AMD AI enhancement. It’s not an exceptional outcome, but it certainly isn’t poor either.

As a researcher, I’ve been exploring the capabilities of this laptop equipped with a neural processing unit (NPU). To gauge its performance, I conducted a few Procyon benchmark tests. Since NPUs are fairly novel, we don’t have extensive data for comparison yet. Among the eight AI-focused PCs we’ve evaluated thus far, the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 recorded the lowest score of 51 in our Windows ML Float32 (CPU) test. However, it performed comparably well in the Intel OpenVINO Float16 NPU test, achieving a score of 273 – a performance level we’ve observed in laptops within its class. This suggests that the laptop’s NPU could potentially manage AI tasks efficiently relative to similar devices available on the market.

To confirm the SSD performance, I additionally performed a CrystalDiskMark test. Impressively, the laptop achieved a read speed of 7021 MB/s and a write speed of 5481 MB/s in this test. This suggests that the laptop can handle data access and writing at a rapid pace compared to many similar models available today.

To sum up, this data implies that the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 is a decent laptop overall, delivering satisfactory performance for general work purposes, albeit not the most potent option out there. It’s worth noting that it can manage AI tasks quite well. Nevertheless, other 2-in-1 laptops on the market tend to offer better value for money regarding performance.

Is the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9 an AI PC or a Copilot+ PC?

The ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Ninth Generation comes equipped with an Intel Core Ultra processor that enhances AI capabilities through its neural processing unit (NPU). This laptop, while not having a Copilot key, doesn’t meet the criteria to be classified as an official Copilot+ PC.

If you’re curious, feel free to explore further details about these AI gadgets by checking out our Neural Processing Unit (NPU) guide – Copilot+ PC guide, or our compilation of top-tier AI PCs.

Thermals and fans

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

My routine for examining a laptop’s thermal performance typically consists of running Cinebench on the CPU for twenty continuous minutes to create heat stress. I then use an infrared camera to gauge the device’s temperature. Notably, similar to many laptops, the hottest spot on the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 (Gen 9) is found near the hinge area just above the keyboard. In this case, this specific area reached a high of 106 degrees Fahrenheit (F), which is approximately 41 degrees Celsius (C).

In my daily routine of working on my laptop on my lap, I’m always concerned about potential burns. I discovered that this ThinkPad has a tendency to warm up slightly at the bottom, but it doesn’t become excessively hot. The hottest spot on the bottom was approximately 104 degrees Fahrenheit (around 40 degrees Celsius), with the warmest area being at the back. The keyboard’s hottest point was its center, reaching a peak of 97 degrees Fahrenheit (36 degrees Celsius). Fortunately, this isn’t too hot. The magnetic area designed to hold the Slim Pen only reached up to 88 degrees Fahrenheit (31 degrees Celsius), which means I don’t have to worry about excessive heat affecting the pen’s battery life.

During the CPU stress test, the fans were operating at their maximum volume. In response, I retrieved my decibel meter and made a measurement. Surprisingly, despite the computer working intensely, the fans only peaked at 39 dB, which is quite soft. To be honest, I hadn’t paid much attention to the fans before this test because they operate so quietly.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9: Battery life

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

Battery highlights

  • Laptop battery life tends to last over 14 hours on average. 
  • Long battery life makes this an ideal device for people who work on-the-go or who travel often. 
  • This laptop uses a 65W USB-C charging adapter cable. 
  • Battery rating: 5/5

It appears there’s been some debate online about whether the laptop has good battery life, so I want to make clear that it does have excellent endurance. Typically, I use the PCMark 10 Battery benchmark to gauge laptop battery life. However, during my test on the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1, the benchmark seemed to terminate prematurely. When I first ran the test, the benchmark indicated that the laptop had run out of power around eight hours in, but it was still functioning. Upon checking the battery life percentage, it suggested there were several more hours left in the laptop. Consequently, I had to rely on my personal usage experience for this evaluation.

Using a display brightness around 200 nits and performing routine tasks such as video conferencing and using standard applications, this laptop can operate for approximately 15 hours and 13 minutes before needing recharging. I seldom faced the issue of battery depletion during work hours; instead, I often found myself utilizing it well into the evening for streaming shows or web browsing. Interestingly, a Windows 11 battery report, conducted after using the laptop for a fortnight, projected an average battery life of about 14 hours and 29 minutes.

For optimal usage, you’d prefer a laptop to last beyond an average eight-hour workday, making 10 hours or more the ideal duration. This particular laptop surpasses even that minimal expectation significantly. As for charging, it comes equipped with a 65W USB-C cable, which is a more convenient choice compared to the traditional barrel plug.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9: Keyboard, TrackPoint, and touchpad

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

Keyboard, TrackPoint, and touchpad highlights

  • When configuring your laptop, you can choose between a trackpad or a haptic touchpad. 
  • Each key feels very good to type on, with satisfying bounce back and slight resistance when used. 
  • It can be slightly awkward to use the fingerprint reader at certain angles because it is at the bottom of the keyboard. 
  • The TrackPoint analog stick is responsive and doesn’t get in the way of the keyboard. 
  • This Trackpad is also responsive but feels a bit too narrow, which necessitates excessive swiping.  
  • Keyboard and touchpad rating: 4/5

When choosing your ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 configuration, you can choose between a trackpad or a more expensive haptic touchpad. These are both useful pointing devices, but haptic touchpads feature a haptic actuator, giving a tactile sensation when you press down on them, so many people find them more satisfying (they are also less prone to breakage over time due to having no moving parts). 

The reviewed laptop featured a touchpad with three buttons situated at its top, and I found it highly responsive. Yet, it’s rather slim vertically (approximately 4.75 inches by 2.25 inches), causing me to swipe more frequently than normal. Consequently, it can be somewhat laborious to use.

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments
Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

As a dedicated Lenovo ThinkPad user, I appreciate the continued presence of the classic red TrackPoint analog stick. It’s strategically placed for convenience without intruding on the keyboard space when I choose to ignore its existence. In terms of performance, it responds swiftly and accurately to my commands during testing, making navigation a breeze.

In my regular analysis, I often find a multitude of useful controls conveniently situated on the top function row. These include muting speakers, adjusting volume levels, muting the microphone, altering screen brightness, accessing Display Settings, capturing screenshots, and opening Lenovo Commercial Vantage – all within easy reach. Additionally, the fingerprint reader, clearly marked with a distinct icon, is strategically placed near the arrow keys. It functions flawlessly each time I utilize it. However, the slight drawback is its location towards the bottom of the keyboard, which can make it somewhat challenging to reach comfortably when the laptop is positioned on my lap.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9: Camera, mic, and audio

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

Camera, mic, and speaker highlights

  • The 1080p FHD and IR camera captures good picture quality. 
  • A physical camera shutter provides additional privacy. 
  • This ThinkPad’s speakers are hidden under the keyboard rather than being on the sides or bottom of the laptop.
  • Two 360-degree quad-array microphones carry my voice clearly in meetings. 
  • Camera, mic, and speaker rating: 5/5

Over several virtual gatherings, I’ve had the pleasure of using the Lenovo X1 2-in-1, and I must say, its 1080p FHD IR camera truly impressed me. As long as I’m in a well-lit environment, my image appears crystal clear, with vibrant colors and smooth motion. The Lenovo View ensures I stay sharply focused and provides me with more control over my virtual presence. Upon initial setup, I opted for Windows Hello, making login a breeze.

As someone who prefers to keep my camera shutter closed when not in use, I appreciate that this laptop has a physical shutter that I can simply slide back and forth over the lens. Some competitors on the market only offer a digital shutter or don’t have a shutter at all.

In terms of audio, my voice easily reached my coworkers during meetings when I was seated close enough to the 360-degree microphones positioned above the screen’s display. However, while the speakers aren’t top-notch for laptops, they provide acceptable sound quality and can get quite loud. But don’t expect them to produce powerful bass sounds. What sets the X1 2-in-1 apart is that its speakers are concealed beneath the keyboard, instead of being located on the sides or bottom of the laptop. This design causes the sound to emanate from the keyboard itself. By using Dolby Access, I can adjust the speaker settings to suit my preferences.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9: Competition

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

Instead of looking beyond Lenovo when searching for something comparable to the X1 2-in-1, you might want to consider the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (Gen 12). This particular 14-inch laptop is a close competitor and was reviewed by our team. It’s equipped with a 28W Intel Core Ultra 7 155H AI-boosting processor, an Intel Arc graphics card, 32GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD.

Another great option is the HP Spectre 14 2-in-1. This is yet another Intel Core Ultra 7 laptop, only this time with an Intel Arc graphics card. Multiple configurations are available, including one with an OLED touchscreen, up to  32GB RAM, and a 2TB SSD. As with the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1, this laptop features a fingerprint reader for fast login. It sells for $1,629.99 at Best Buy.

As someone who frequently requires more screen real estate while on the move, I’d recommend checking out our Lenovo Yoga Book 9i 2-in-1 review. This innovative business laptop boasts two OLED screens and a Bluetooth keyboard, providing you with versatile usage options. You can use it in the traditional one-screen laptop setup, with the keyboard on the lower display, or rotate it sideways for a dual-screen folio view. At the time of writing, it is available at Best Buy for $1,799.99.

Instead of Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1, you could also look into the HP Envy 2-in-1. Much like the Lenovo model, this laptop sports a 14-inch screen and is equipped with an Intel Core UIltra 7 processor, which enhances performance through AI, as well as integrated Intel Graphics. You can choose from different RAM and SSD storage options to suit your needs. It’s an excellent pick for any business professional, and we found it priced at $1,099.99 on Best Buy during our last check.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9: Scorecard

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9: Should you buy it?

Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 uses versatile designs and long battery life to counter some disappointments

✅ You should buy this if…

  • You need a laptop with long battery life: With the ability to last much longer than 10 hours, this laptop can easily keep up with an average workday. 
  • You’re looking for something that can function as both a laptop and a tablet. This laptop’s 2-in-1 design gives it a flexible and versatile build, allowing it to operate like a tablet or laptop. 
  • You need a professional-level laptop with plenty of ports: Some business laptops on the market strive for a future-forward minimalist look that does away with ports, but this one offers two USB-A and two USB-C ports to meet your accessory needs. 

❌ You should not buy this if…

  • You’re looking for a budget laptop: The ThinkPad line is specifically marketed to business persons and, as such, offers a lot of extra features that the average consumer doesn’t need. Because of this, it’s a bit more expensive. 
  • You don’t care for the red TrackPoint: The analog stick has become an iconic element of the ThinkPad line, but it is outdated in some respects. If you don’t want this kind of control option, then a ThinkPad might not be your best fit. 
  • You specifically need a computer that can handle more demanding workloads. If you regularly run graphically demanding or processor-heavy software, you’ll want to get a more powerful laptop. 

As a dedicated ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 (Gen 9) user, I can vouch for its versatility, especially when it comes to impromptu presentations. The integration of the Lenovo Slim Pen in tablet mode makes me feel like a pro, whether I’m at home, in the office, or on-the-go. The keyboard feels amazing under my fingers, and the responsive touchscreen ensures smooth interactions. To top it off, the Lenovo View’s camera settings help me project a more polished image during virtual meetings.

For business use, this laptop is pricier than many others, but it delivers slightly below-average performance. It’s capable of handling essential tasks like participating in virtual meetings, running basic applications, and browsing the web smoothly. However, you can find other devices with better overall performance on the market. If you prioritize having a super-fast, highly efficient machine, you might want to consider other options. But if it suits your business requirements well enough, this laptop should serve you just fine.

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2024-08-07 19:14