Lenovo ThinkPad E16 G2 Laptop Review Powerful Ryzen 7 Performance and Premium Features

Description

Design and Build Quality

Using the Lenovo ThinkPad E16 G2, you immediately notice its sleek yet professional design. The 16-inch FHD+ display is a standout feature, offering a 1920×1200 resolution with anti-glare technology, which makes working under bright lights or near windows a breeze. While 45% NTSC might not appeal to graphic designers, for everyday tasks, the screen’s clarity and sharpness are more than sufficient. The 300 nits brightness ensures that the display remains usable even in outdoor settings. It’s both lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around, whether you’re hopping between meetings or working remotely at a café.

The build quality feels robust, with a chassis that doesn’t flex under pressure, which is something I always appreciate in a laptop. It might not scream luxury, but it certainly speaks of durability and practicality, which aligns well with its business-grade purpose. The backlit keyboard is another plus for dimly lit environments—I’ve found it helpful during late-night sessions. The addition of a fingerprint reader on the power button adds a layer of convenience and security, especially for those who are concerned about keeping their data safe.

Performance and Multitasking

Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS processor, this laptop doesn’t shy away from tackling heavy workloads. The 8-core processor with a base clock of 3.2 GHz (turbo boosting up to 4.75 GHz) ensures that even resource-intensive tasks like running multiple applications, editing videos, or compiling code are handled with ease. I tested it with several tasks running simultaneously—editing documents, streaming videos, and even some light gaming—and it didn’t flinch. The 16-thread architecture is a game-changer for multitasking.

The 32GB DDR5 SDRAM is a dream for anyone who juggles several applications. It keeps things running smoothly without any noticeable lag. Coupled with a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD, boot times are lightning fast, and file transfers are seamless. I could store an extensive library of files, including high-resolution images and videos, without worrying about running out of space. From my experience, this combination of processing power and storage capacity ensures that the laptop is ready for both business and casual use.

Connectivity and Ports

One of the key benefits of the ThinkPad E16 G2 is its impressive connectivity options. Featuring Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, I found the wireless connections to be incredibly stable, even in areas with multiple devices competing for bandwidth. The laptop also offers a variety of ports, including two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 port capable of 4K/60Hz output, and even an Ethernet RJ-45 jack. These made it easy to connect multiple peripherals without needing additional hubs or adapters. Whether I was using an external monitor, charging my phone, or connecting to a wired network, the options were all there.

The Kensington Nano security slot might not seem like a big deal, but for those working in office spaces or public areas, it’s a thoughtful addition to deter theft. Also, the privacy shutter on the 1080p webcam is a nice touch for anyone concerned about their privacy—I found it reassuring during virtual meetings.

Key Benefits

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 processor ensures smooth multitasking and performance.
• 32GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB SSD provide excellent storage and speed.
• Comprehensive connectivity options, including USB-C, HDMI 2.1, and Ethernet.
• Fingerprint reader and TPM 2.0 chip enhance security.
• Backlit keyboard and privacy shutter cater to practical, everyday use.

Limitations

While the ThinkPad E16 G2 ticks a lot of boxes, there are certain areas for improvement.

• 45% NTSC color gamut isn’t ideal for color-sensitive work like photo or video editing.
• Plastic construction in some areas may not feel as premium as competitors.
• The integrated AMD Radeon 680M graphics might not suffice for hardcore gamers or intensive 3D rendering.
• The 300 nits brightness, while decent, can struggle under very bright sunlight.

Other Options

When stacking the ThinkPad E16 G2 against competitive options, some clear differences emerge. For instance, the Dell XPS 15 offers a more vibrant display with higher color accuracy, making it a better choice for creative professionals. However, it comes at a significantly higher price point. On the other hand, the HP ProBook 450 G10 provides similar processing power but lacks the extensive port selection and Wi-Fi 6E support found in the ThinkPad.

For those seeking more gaming-oriented laptops, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 might be appealing, thanks to its dedicated GPU. However, it doesn’t offer the same level of business-focused features, such as the Kensington lock slot or TPM 2.0 chip. The ThinkPad strikes a good balance between affordability and functionality, catering specifically to professionals who prioritize security and multitasking over flashy extras.

Price to Quality Ratio

Considering all the features packed into this laptop, it offers excellent value for professionals and power users. It may not boast the ultra-premium aesthetics of higher-end models, but it delivers where it matters: performance, reliability, and usability. If you’re someone who needs a reliable workhorse for day-to-day business tasks with room for casual entertainment, this laptop justifies its price tag. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the combination of robust processing power, extensive RAM, and secure features makes it worth every penny.