Quick notes
- In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the ThinkPad E15 Gen 2 and Gen 4, empowering you to make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
- Building upon the Gen 2’s foundation, the Gen 4 introduces a more refined design with a thinner profile and reduced weight.
- The Gen 2 is generally more affordable, while the Gen 4 offers more advanced features and performance at a higher price.
The Lenovo ThinkPad E15 series has long been renowned for its exceptional build quality, reliable performance, and business-centric features. With the release of the Gen 4 model, Lenovo has further refined and enhanced the E15 experience. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the ThinkPad E15 Gen 2 and Gen 4, empowering you to make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
Gen 2: The Gen 2 model boasts a robust yet sleek chassis crafted from a magnesium-aluminum alloy. Its MIL-STD-810G certification ensures durability against extreme temperatures, vibrations, and shocks.
Gen 4: Building upon the Gen 2’s foundation, the Gen 4 introduces a more refined design with a thinner profile and reduced weight. The chassis remains highly durable, meeting the same MIL-STD-810G standards as its predecessor.
Display
Gen 2: The Gen 2 offers a 15.6-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It provides good color accuracy and viewing angles, making it suitable for most business applications.
Gen 4: The Gen 4 upgrades the display to a 15.6-inch IPS panel with a higher resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels. This results in sharper text and images, enhancing productivity and visual clarity.
Performance
Gen 2: The Gen 2 is powered by up to 10th-generation Intel Core i7 processors, providing ample performance for everyday business tasks. It comes with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of SSD storage.
Gen 4: The Gen 4 takes a significant leap in performance, featuring up to 12th-generation Intel Core i7 processors. These processors offer improved multi-core performance, making the Gen 4 more capable of handling demanding workloads. It also supports up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of SSD storage.
Battery Life
Gen 2: The Gen 2 has a 45Wh battery that provides up to 13 hours of battery life on a single charge. This is sufficient for most users to get through a full day of work without needing to recharge.
Gen 4: The Gen 4 features a larger 57Wh battery, offering up to 16 hours of battery life. This extended battery life provides peace of mind for users who frequently work on the go.
Ports and Connectivity
Gen 2: The Gen 2 offers a comprehensive set of ports, including two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, one USB-A 2.0 port, one USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 port, one HDMI port, and a microSD card reader.
Gen 4: The Gen 4 maintains the same port selection as the Gen 2, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of peripherals. Additionally, it introduces Wi-Fi 6E connectivity for faster and more stable wireless connections.
Security Features
Gen 2: The Gen 2 comes equipped with a fingerprint reader, TPM 2.0 chip, and Kensington lock slot for enhanced security.
Gen 4: The Gen 4 adds an IR camera for Windows Hello facial recognition, providing a more convenient and secure way to log in.
Price and Availability
The Lenovo ThinkPad E15 Gen 2 and Gen 4 are available at various price points depending on the configuration. The Gen 2 is generally more affordable, while the Gen 4 offers more advanced features and performance at a higher price.
Summary Table
| Feature | ThinkPad E15 Gen 2 | ThinkPad E15 Gen 4 |
| — | — | — |
| Design | Magnesium-aluminum alloy, MIL-STD-810G | Magnesium-aluminum alloy, MIL-STD-810G, thinner profile |
| Display | 15.6-inch IPS, 1920 x 1080 | 15.6-inch IPS, 2560 x 1440 |
| Performance | Up to 10th-gen Intel Core i7 | Up to 12th-gen Intel Core i7 |
| Battery Life | 45Wh, up to 13 hours | 57Wh, up to 16 hours |
| Ports | 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB-A 2.0, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI, microSD | Same as Gen 2, plus Wi-Fi 6E |
| Security | Fingerprint reader, TPM 2.0, Kensington lock | Fingerprint reader, IR camera, TPM 2.0, Kensington lock |
| Price | More affordable | More expensive |
Summary: Choosing the Right Lenovo ThinkPad E15 for You
The choice between the Lenovo ThinkPad E15 Gen 2 and Gen 4 ultimately depends on your specific requirements and budget. If you prioritize affordability and durability, the Gen 2 remains a solid option. However, if you demand exceptional performance, a more vibrant display, and enhanced security features, the Gen 4 is the clear choice.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which model has better performance, the Gen 2 or the Gen 4?
A: The Gen 4 offers significantly better performance with its 12th-generation Intel Core processors.
Q: How long does the battery last on the Gen 4?
A: The Gen 4 has a longer battery life than the Gen 2, providing up to 16 hours of use on a single charge.
Q: Does the Gen 4 have a fingerprint reader?
A: Yes, the Gen 4 has a fingerprint reader built into the power button for convenient and secure login.
Q: Which model is more suitable for business professionals?
A: Both the Gen 2 and Gen 4 are excellent choices for business professionals, offering durability, security features, and reliable performance.
Q: Is the Gen 4 worth the price premium over the Gen 2?
A: The Gen 4 offers several upgrades over the Gen 2, including a better display, enhanced performance, and extended battery life. If these features are important to you, the Gen 4 is worth the additional cost.