Lenovo’s ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 has arrived with a bold choice: the Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, a departure from the Intel and AMD options found in previous models. Aimed at mobile professionals who value portability and battery longevity, this sleek 14-inch laptop promises extended uptime, top-notch connectivity, and the robust build quality typical of Lenovo’s ThinkPad series. But can the Snapdragon-powered T14s Gen 6 deliver on performance without compromising compatibility? Here’s what we found.
Design and Build Quality
Lenovo stays true to its design philosophy with a solid chassis crafted from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic on the lid and a magnesium alloy body, giving it a premium feel without weighing it down. Weighing around 2.7 pounds, the T14s is designed for mobility, fitting seamlessly into a professional’s day-to-day routine. The hallmark ThinkPad keyboard, complete with Lenovo’s iconic TrackPoint and a generously sized trackpad, ensures a comfortable and accurate typing experience—a notable highlight for those who spend hours typing.
Display
The 14-inch FHD (1920 x 1200) IPS display is bright and vibrant, reaching up to 400 nits for clear visibility in various lighting conditions. The standard display configuration offers solid color accuracy and viewing angles, while an optional 2.8K OLED variant is available for those seeking enhanced visuals. Though the OLED display might drain the battery faster, it could be worthwhile for users who prioritize display quality for design or media tasks.
Performance
The ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite processor paired with 32GB LPDDR5X RAM, promising efficient multitasking capabilities. While the Snapdragon processor supports ARM-based applications well, it may encounter some limitations with legacy x86 apps, which could affect software compatibility for some users. However, for productivity tasks, browsing, and light editing, the T14s delivers a smooth and responsive experience.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of the T14s Gen 6 is its battery life, with Lenovo claiming up to 21 hours on a single charge. In real-world testing, the device performs impressively, easily lasting through a full workday and then some, making it ideal for business professionals who travel frequently or work on the go. However, high-intensity tasks may reduce battery life, though it remains significantly above average.
Connectivity and Ports
The ThinkPad T14s offers a well-rounded selection of ports: two USB-C ports, two USB-A, an HDMI 2.1, and a 3.5mm audio jack. It’s also equipped with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 for strong wireless connectivity, although the absence of an Ethernet port may be a downside for some users. The versatile port selection should suit most modern use cases, though professionals relying on wired connections might need an adapter.
Audio and Webcam
Equipped with upward-firing speakers and Dolby Atmos support, the audio quality is clear and suited for presentations or video calls. The 1080p webcam performs well for virtual meetings, with adequate sharpness and color reproduction, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. Combined with the quality audio setup, the T14s Gen 6 handles conferencing tasks admirably.
Software and Features
Running on Windows 11 Pro for ARM, the ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 includes a few Lenovo utilities but keeps bloatware to a minimum. ARM compatibility brings enhanced efficiency but can limit some software availability or performance for users who rely on legacy Windows applications, though most everyday tasks run without issue.
Pricing and Configurations
Starting at around £1,700, the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 offers multiple configurations, allowing users to choose between the standard FHD display or an upgraded OLED version. While the price reflects its premium build and Snapdragon-powered efficiency, prospective buyers should carefully consider their compatibility needs to ensure a seamless experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent battery life, ideal for travel and all-day use.
- Lightweight, premium build quality.
- Superior keyboard experience and Lenovo’s iconic TrackPoint.
Cons:
- Limited application compatibility due to ARM architecture.
- Non-upgradable RAM and storage options.
- Absence of an Ethernet port may inconvenience some users.
Conclusion
The Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 is a well-crafted device that caters to mobile professionals who value battery longevity and portability. While the Snapdragon processor provides commendable efficiency, potential buyers should consider their software needs due to ARM compatibility constraints. For those who primarily use productivity apps and seek a device that can last through extended work sessions, the T14s Gen 6 is a strong contender in Lenovo’s ThinkPad lineup.