In 2020, Lenovo unveiled the ThinkPad X1 Fold, a groundbreaking device featuring a foldable OLED screen. However, its implementation was hindered by its drawbacks, which included a small screen, a limited battery life, and a costly price. In 2024, Lenovo resolved these issues with the ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1.
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1 truly unveils the computing of the future. Its massive 16.3-inch foldable OLED display makes it difficult to tell this cutting-edge device apart from a laptop. Is it a precursor to things to come, or is this a novel technology that need some time to become widely used?
Unveiling a Technological marvel
The first impression of the X1 Fold 16 is unlike any other laptop. Folded shut, it resembles a thick hardcover book, exuding a sense of quality with its metal hinge and ThinkPad branding.
Unfolding it reveals the true magic: a sprawling OLED display that dominates your field of view. The screen is the star of the show because the bezels are substantially thinner than in the previous iteration. The display impressed the reviewer with its brilliant colors, deep blacks—a characteristic of OLED technology—and great brightness for both indoor and outdoor use.
A Device of Many Modes
The foldable design is the X1 Fold 16’s defining characteristic. Unlike traditional laptops, it transforms to suit various user needs. Lay it flat for a large-screen tablet ideal for e-reading, browsing, or presentations.
Prop it up in tent mode for comfortable movie watching or casual browsing. But the pièce de résistance is the laptop mode. The keyboard magnetically attaches to the bottom half of the display, creating a familiar clamshell experience with a surprisingly comfortable typing experience – a pleasant surprise considering the limited space. The keyboard even integrates a fingerprint scanner and a haptic trackpad, offering a secure and responsive way to navigate.
A Capable Companion, But Not a Powerhouse
Intel U-series 12th generation CPUs, which are renowned for their efficiency rather than their raw power, powers the X1 Fold 16. Daily activities like as document editing, video conferencing, and online browsing are managed seamlessly.
Nevertheless, demanding programs like as multitasking or video editing may reveal limitations.
This, coupled with the soldered RAM (meaning you can’t upgrade it later), makes the X1 Fold 16 a better fit for productivity-focused users rather than content creators.
ThinkPad Durability Meets Foldable Innovation
One concern with foldable devices is durability. Lenovo guarantees customers that extensive testing has been done to ensure the X1 Fold 16 can endure regular use. During our time using the device, we noticed no traces of creases on the display, and the hinge felt robust. However, only time will tell how well the hinge and display hold up with extended use.
Aesthetics Aside, Some Practical Shortcomings
Despite being a technological marvel, the X1 Fold 16 is not without its flaws. The weight is the first obvious negative. It is thicker and heavier than a standard laptop because of the removable keyboard. This might make or break the purchase for people who place a high importance on portability. Additionally, the lack of a headphone connector may frustrate some users as it forces them to use Bluetooth headphones or adapters.
Moreover, the setup procedure may be a little tricky. Compared to a conventional laptop, there are extra steps involved in connecting the keyboard and setting the stand. It may also take some getting used to the hinge’s initial rigidity, which necessitates a slow push to open and close the device.
The High Price of Innovation
The most significant barrier to entry for many users might be the price tag. The X1 Fold 16 starts at a hefty $2500, with higher configurations costing even more. This positions it as a niche product for early adopters or professionals who truly value the unique form factor and expansive display.
Is the X1 Fold 16 Right for You?
With its gorgeous folding OLED display and customizable options, this cutting-edge Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1 laptop can be tailored to satisfy a variety of computing needs. However, because of its cost, heavy weight, and a few strange design elements, it is a niche product. The X1 Fold 16 could be a game-changer if you’re a professional who values portability and a big screen for presentations or multitasking. Nonetheless, a conventional high-performance laptop can be a more sensible option for infrequent users or those on a tight budget.
In the end, the X1 Fold 16 is a remarkable advancement in the field of foldable PC technology. It’s a device that offers a view into the future of computing while making a daring statement. Even if it might not be flawless just yet, it’s a strong choice for anybody looking for a distinctive and cutting-edge computing experience.
