The Lenovo ThinkPad T450, released in 2014, was a business-oriented laptop known for its durability, excellent keyboard, and long battery life. But how does it hold up in 2024? Let’s take a deep dive into its specs, performance, and overall usability to see if it’s still a viable option for today’s needs.
Configurations:
The T450 offered a variety of configurations to cater to different user requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the key options:
- Processors:
- Intel 4th generation Haswell processors (i3, i5, i7)
- Intel 5th generation Broadwell processors (i5, i7) (some models)
- RAM: 4GB, 8GB
- Storage: 128GB SSD, 256GB SSD, 500GB HDD (availability may vary)
- Display: 14-inch HD (1366×768) TN panel, some models offered an FHD (1920×1080) IPS panel
- Battery: Internal 3-cell and optional external 6-cell battery for extended life
Performance:
The T450’s performance depends heavily on the specific configuration you choose. The 4th generation Haswell processors are starting to show their age, especially for demanding tasks like video editing or heavy multitasking. However, for basic productivity tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and email management, they should still be adequate. The 5th generation Broadwell processors offer a slight performance boost but may not be a significant upgrade for most users.
Usability:
Where the T450 truly shines is in its usability. The renowned ThinkPad keyboard is a dream to type on, with excellent key travel and a satisfying clicky feel. The trackpad is responsive and accurate, and the overall build quality is exceptional. The T450 is also known for its durability, making it a great choice for users who need a laptop that can withstand bumps and bruises.
Perhaps the biggest selling point of the T450 in 2024 is its battery life. With the optional 6-cell battery, you can easily achieve a full workday or more on a single charge. This makes it a great option for mobile professionals who need to stay productive on the go.
Downsides:
The main downsides of the T450 are its outdated hardware and potentially lower-resolution display. The HD TN panel, while functional, won’t offer the vibrant colours and sharp viewing angles of a modern IPS display. Additionally, upgrading components like RAM or storage might be difficult due to their age.
Who is it for?
The Lenovo ThinkPad T450 is a good option for:
- Budget-minded users: You can find the T450 for very reasonable prices online, making it a good choice for those who don’t need the latest and greatest hardware.
- Business professionals who prioritize battery life and durability: With its long battery life and tough build quality, the T450 is a reliable workhorse that can handle the demands of daily business use.
- Those who value a fantastic keyboard: The ThinkPad keyboard is widely considered one of the best in the industry, and the T450 is no exception.
Conclusion:
The Lenovo ThinkPad T450 is a solid business laptop that offers a good balance of performance, durability, and battery life. While its hardware is outdated by today’s standards, it can still be a viable option for basic productivity tasks, especially if you can find it at a good price. However, if you need a laptop for more demanding tasks or require a higher-resolution display, you’ll likely be better served by a more recent model.
