LENOVO THINKPAD SL400 REVIEW – SO MUCH FOR SO LITTLE

Crammed with functions such as an incorporated UMTS broadband modem, non-compulsory Blu-Ray drive, online statistics backup utilities and high luster exhibit lid, the Lenovo ThinkPad SL400 is approximately like a cross flanked by a multimedia and a business laptop. Lenovo evidently means to score point’s exterior of its customary business fan base with the SL400.

Design
What at 1st looks unmistakably like a characteristic ThinkPad, after closer examination exposes substantial differences to the recognizable Lenovo business ranks, first and leading is the top of the exhibit lid, which has been specified an elevated luster thoughtful surface. Even despite the fact that this business-atypical characteristic stays barely perceptible for the abuser; at slightest while in its open condition, the laptop very plainly outwardly classifies itself as the resources alternative of its replica range.

Performance
Subsequent the FSC Amilo Si3655, the Lenovo ThinkPad SL400 is our 2nd test model to be planted with Intel's most recent PM45 chipset and the much overestimated Montevina Platform. Implementation the wrap up, the SL400 has a new-fangled Intel Core 2 Duo P8400 CPU at 2.26 GHz and 3MB L2 Cache. This CPU is the negligible and "weakest performing" chip in the new-fangled Intel range. The "P" mark denudates the power saving description of the new-fangled processor assortment, whose TDP lies at under 25W.

For its explicit solution, our SL400 test replica came with a Geforce 9300M GS from NVidia. Planted with 256MB GDDR3 of video memory, these explicit cards be in the right place to the admission level ranks of the new-fangled NVidia chip range, which in contrast to incorporated solutions like the existing Intel GMA 4500M HD chip proffered an understandable presentation improvement, even though maybe not to a satisfactory degree for proficient applications.

In the (currently ageing) gaming classics Doom 3 and FEAR, the SL400 displayed rather sensible presentation. In our sensible DVD playback test on utmost brightness, deactivated WLAN and standard system recital settings, the machine achieved a sprint time of 140 minutes.

Overall
Overall the ThinkPad SL series showcases a motivating alternative for the cost conscious business novice or even the personal customer, since it does after all proffer a lot of ThinkPad at a diminutive price. This embraces incorporated broadband internet, no-nonsense Lenovo Care Tools and to conclude a whole range of options in terms of overhaul, support and data security (obtainable at extra cost).

Pros
+ Healthy case
+ All-embracing connectivity variants (HDMI)
+ Non-compulsory Blue-Ray available
+ Contented input devices
+ Incorporated UMTS module
+ Lenovo Care Tools

Cons
- Extraordinary design and styling
- Receptive display lid
- Restricted brightness and standpoint constancy in the display

Value For Money

Our Rating