Lenovo’s ThinkPad series has long been synonymous with business-class reliability and that iconic red TrackPoint nub. Enter the ThinkPad X9 14 Aura Edition—a laptop that dares to defy tradition. With a sleek design, cutting-edge features, and a few surprises up its sleeve, this machine aims to cater to the modern professional. But does it succeed? Let’s dive in.
Design and Build: A Bold New Direction
At first glance, the ThinkPad X9 14 Aura Edition exudes sophistication. Its ultrathin profile measures just 0.51 inches, making it one of the slimmest laptops in its class. The aluminum chassis, adorned with rounded edges, gives it a contemporary flair that stands out in the boardroom and the coffee shop alike. Notably, Lenovo has introduced the “engine-hub” design—a raised strip along the back housing critical components and advanced thermal fans. This innovation allows for a sleek appearance without compromising performance.
Farewell to the TrackPoint: A Controversial Move
Long-time ThinkPad enthusiasts might do a double-take—the iconic red TrackPoint is absent. Lenovo’s decision to remove this hallmark feature is bold, aiming to modernize the user experience. In its place, users will find a spacious 130×80 mm glass Haptic TouchPad, offering responsive and precise control. While this change may alienate some purists, it reflects Lenovo’s commitment to evolving with user preferences.
Display: A Visual Delight
The ThinkPad X9 14 boasts a 14-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2880×1800 pixels. With a 120Hz refresh rate and over 500 nits of brightness, visuals are crisp, vibrant, and fluid. Whether you’re editing spreadsheets or streaming your favorite series, the display delivers an immersive experience that’s easy on the eyes.
Performance: Power Meets Efficiency
Under the hood, the ThinkPad X9 14 is powered by Intel’s Core Ultra 7 258V processor, part of the Lunar Lake series. This chip integrates eight cores (four performance and four efficient), Intel Arc Graphics 140V, and a neural processing unit (NPU) delivering up to 47 TOPS. Paired with 32GB of LPDDR5x-8533 MHz RAM, the laptop handles multitasking with ease. However, it’s worth noting that while performance is robust, it doesn’t significantly outpace competitors in the same category.
Battery Life: Room for Improvement
Equipped with a 55Wh lithium-polymer battery, the ThinkPad X9 14 offers moderate endurance. In real-world usage, it delivers approximately nine hours of operation on a single charge. While this suffices for a typical workday, some rivals offer longer battery life, which could be a deciding factor for users frequently on the move.
Connectivity: Modern and Minimalist
The port selection aligns with the laptop’s minimalist design. It includes two USB-C ports (one on each side), an HDMI 2.1 port, and a headphone jack. Given that one USB-C port is used for charging, users may find the available ports limited, especially if they rely on multiple peripherals. This setup encourages the use of wireless accessories or docking stations for expanded connectivity.
Keyboard and Touchpad: Typing Redefined
Lenovo introduces a modern keyboard with enhanced key travel and precise tactile feedback. The absence of the TrackPoint allows for a more spacious and uncluttered layout. The glass Haptic TouchPad is responsive, providing a satisfying user experience that aligns with contemporary expectations.
AI Features: Smarter Workflows
The ThinkPad X9 14 integrates AI-assisted productivity tools, including Lenovo Smart Modes. These modes optimize system performance in real-time, allowing users to focus on strategic tasks without manual adjustments. Additionally, the Copilot+ PC experience from Microsoft automates repetitive tasks, enhancing overall efficiency.
Security: Fortified Protection
Security is paramount in business laptops, and the ThinkPad X9 14 doesn’t disappoint. It features Lenovo ThinkShield, Intel vPro, Microsoft Pluton protection, and an onboard IR camera for secure facial recognition. These measures ensure that sensitive data remains protected against potential threats.
Conclusion: A Step Forward with a Nod to the Past
The Lenovo ThinkPad X9 14 Aura Edition represents a bold evolution in the ThinkPad lineage. By shedding some traditional elements like the TrackPoint, Lenovo aims to appeal to a broader audience seeking modern aesthetics and features. While it excels in design, display quality, and AI integration, areas like battery life and port selection leave room for improvement. For professionals seeking a sleek, capable laptop that balances heritage with innovation, the ThinkPad X9 14 is a compelling option worth considering.
