Lenovo ThinkPad x121e Pro Reviews

The test model of the Lenovo ThinkPad X121e is not a device we would really recommend, despite the low price. The dark display with a low contrast is not up to date and limits its use cases. Such a mobile notebook with such an impractical display does not really make any sense. Battery life, weight and size fit the portability just fine. The reduced CPU clock speed of the AMD E-300 APU is barely noticeable but there are no real benefits for the customer regarding price and battery life. The price difference is marginal and the battery life differences are not worth mentioning. Also irritating is the failed build quality of the case and the reaction time of the touch pad. The remaining plus points are the low entry price for the version without Windows, the 3G readiness and high mobility (battery life, weight, size). But the positive aspects will convince only a few customers that are aware of the downsides.

The Lenovo ThinkPad X121e 3045 is a practical, portable laptop that has a lot to offer business users – especially those that travel and work in cramped conditions like aircraft and trains. The keyboard and touchpad took some getting used to, and the lack of an internal optical drive could be a deal breaker for some. It does come at an attractive price for the build quality and essential features available.

Solid performance from an 11in laptop – the X121e is a more sensible choice than a netbook if you need portability

The 11.6in X121e preserves the ThinkPad brand’s reputation for rock-solid build quality and excellent ergonomics, and throws in a decent screen, well-placed connectivity and good battery life to boot. Frankly, it’s difficult to see how Lenovo achieved all this in a machine starting at £330, though we’d probably go for the 3G-sporting Core i3 version at just £510. Regardless, whether you’re looking for a large netbook or a versatile budget ultraportable, the X121e should be near the top of your list.

The Lenovo ThinkPad X121e is a lovely little laptop. It's great for general all round computing, and with a suggested battery life of up to 9.3 hours it looks to us like a winner.

Overall, the entry level ThinkPad offers a lot of performance, features, battery life and upgrade options; at current prices below 400.- euros, it is unique in this combination and price range.

Regardless of the new disadvantages, the redesigned X121e still offers the same extensive connectivity options as its predecessor, including HDMI, Bluetooth, WLAN, SIM and a new WWAN card, albeit with no docking port. Business users on a budget with good CPU performance and small size as top priorities cannot go wrong with the Lenovo X121e. This 11.6-inch notebook is definitely a worthy entry to the ThinkPad X Series.