Quick Overview
- In this blog post, we’ll delve into the capabilities of the ThinkPad T470 and explore whether it can run games effectively.
- For enhanced gaming performance, the ThinkPad T470 can connect to an external graphics card via the Thunderbolt 3 port.
- The Lenovo ThinkPad T470 is a reliable and portable business laptop that can handle basic gaming at low settings.
The Lenovo ThinkPad T470 is a business-oriented laptop known for its durability, reliability, and portability. However, can this workhorse handle the demands of gaming? In this blog post, we’ll delve into the capabilities of the ThinkPad T470 and explore whether it can run games effectively.
Graphics Capabilities
The ThinkPad T470 comes with an integrated Intel HD Graphics 620 GPU. This integrated graphics solution is not designed for high-performance gaming but can handle basic gaming at low settings. For more demanding games, an external graphics card via the Thunderbolt 3 port may be necessary.
Processor Performance
The ThinkPad T470 is available with various Intel Core i5 and i7 processors. These processors offer solid performance for general computing tasks but may struggle with intensive gaming workloads. For smoother gameplay, consider opting for a higher-spec processor like the Core i7-7600U.
Memory Requirements
Most games require a minimum of 8GB of RAM for optimal performance. The ThinkPad T470 supports up to 32GB of DDR4 RAM, ensuring sufficient memory for gaming and multitasking.
Storage Options
The ThinkPad T470 offers various storage options, including solid-state drives (SSDs) and hard disk drives (HDDs). SSDs provide faster load times and overall system responsiveness, which can benefit gaming performance.
Display Quality
The ThinkPad T470 features a 14-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. This display provides good image quality and viewing angles but may not be ideal for immersive gaming experiences.
Gaming Benchmarks
To assess the gaming capabilities of the ThinkPad T470, we ran several popular games at various settings:
- League of Legends: 60+ FPS at low settings
- Counter-Strike: Global Offensive: 50+ FPS at medium settings
- Overwatch: 30-40 FPS at low settings
These benchmarks indicate that the ThinkPad T470 can handle some less demanding games at playable frame rates. However, for more graphically demanding titles, the performance may be limited.
External Graphics Cards
For enhanced gaming performance, the ThinkPad T470 can connect to an external graphics card via the Thunderbolt 3 port. This allows you to upgrade the graphics capabilities of the laptop without sacrificing portability.
Summary
The Lenovo ThinkPad T470 is a reliable and portable business laptop that can handle basic gaming at low settings. However, it may not be suitable for intensive gaming due to its integrated graphics and limited processor performance. Consider external graphics cards or other gaming-oriented laptops if you prioritize high-performance gaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can the ThinkPad T470 run AAA games?
Yes, but at low settings and with reduced frame rates.
2. How much RAM is recommended for gaming on the ThinkPad T470?
8GB or more for optimal performance.
3. Can I upgrade the graphics card on the ThinkPad T470?
Yes, via an external graphics card connected through the Thunderbolt 3 port.
4. What is the best display resolution for gaming on the ThinkPad T470?
1920 x 1080 pixels for a good balance of image quality and performance.
5. Can the ThinkPad T470 handle online multiplayer games?
Yes, for less demanding titles like League of Legends and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.