Looking for a laptop that is easily carried around yet capable for daily tasks? The ThinkBook 14 Gen 8 might be the solution. This mid-range ultrabook prioritizes portability and functionality. It provides a balance for users seeking durability without premium costs.
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 Gen 8
Under the Hood: Performance and Efficiency
This ThinkBook operates with Intel's Core Ultra 5 210H processor. An upgrade to the Core 7 Ultra 240H is optional. These processors are from the "Raptor Lake" generation, not the latest "Arrow Lake" chips. However, these chips are well-equipped for general productivity, browsing, and light creative work. They offer a good performance-efficiency balance essential for a portable laptop.
All models include 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD for storage. Battery life varies by model, with choices between a 45Wh or 60Wh battery pack. The basic model includes the smaller battery.
Screen and Display: Practical and Functional
The ThinkBook 14 Gen 8 features a 14-inch IPS screen with 1920x1200 resolution. The 16:10 aspect ratio provides more vertical screen space for documents and web pages. Brightness is rated at 300 nits with a standard 60Hz refresh rate. Color accuracy covers 45% of the NTSC color space, suitable for everyday use, emails, and presentations, though not ideal for professional color-sensitive work.
Connectivity: Ports Aplenty
Connectivity is a strong point of the ThinkBook 14 Gen 8. It includes:
- Thunderbolt 4 USB-C: For accessories and displays.
- USB-C (10 Gbps): For fast data transfer.
- Two USB-A ports (5 Gbps): For older USB devices.
- HDMI 2.1: For external monitors and TVs.
- Ethernet: For wired network connection.
- SD card reader: For photographers and content creators.
- 3.5mm headphone jack: For wired headphones.
This is a comprehensive selection of ports for a laptop in this class.
Design and Portability: Light and Easy to Carry
The "ultrabook" classification is justified. The ThinkBook 14 Gen 8 weighs 3 pounds (1.36kg) and is 0.7 inches (18mm) thick, designed for portability. Additional design features include a backlit, spill-resistant keyboard, 1080p webcam with a privacy shutter, and a fingerprint sensor for security.
Pricing and Value
The ThinkBook 14 Gen 8 starts under $1000. Currently, the Core 5 model is priced around $984, and the Core 7 version is approximately $1105. This pricing offers attractive value for a lightweight, well-equipped 14-inch laptop.
| Model | Processor | RAM | Storage | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Model | Intel Core 5 210H | 16GB | 512GB SSD | $984 |
| Upgraded Model | Intel Core 7 240H | 16GB | 512GB SSD | $1105 |
Final Thoughts: A Good Choice for Practical Users
The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 Gen 8 is not a high-end workstation. It is a credible, portable, and affordable laptop for daily users, including students and professionals. It suits those who value portability and practical design over peak performance and color-accurate displays.
