Quick notes
- In contrast, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon boasts a more rugged design with a carbon fiber chassis.
- The Gram can be configured with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of NVMe SSD storage, while the X1 Carbon supports up to 32GB of RAM and 2TB of storage.
- The LG Gram excels in this area, boasting an impressive battery life of up to 20 hours on a single charge.
In the realm of ultraportable laptops, two titans stand tall: the LG Gram and the ThinkPad X1 Carbon. Both devices are renowned for their exceptional portability, sleek designs, and impressive performance. But which one is the right choice for your specific needs? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the LG Gram and ThinkPad X1 Carbon, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The LG Gram and ThinkPad X1 Carbon exude elegance and durability. The Gram’s ultra-thin profile and feather-light weight of around 2.2 pounds make it an ideal companion for those constantly on the go. Its magnesium alloy chassis ensures both strength and portability.
In contrast, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon boasts a more rugged design with a carbon fiber chassis. The iconic black exterior and red accents give it a professional and understated look. Despite its slightly heavier weight of around 2.5 pounds, the X1 Carbon feels robust and well-built.
Display
Both laptops offer stunning displays, but with subtle differences. The LG Gram comes equipped with a 14-inch IPS LCD panel with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It provides vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, making it perfect for watching movies or browsing the web.
The ThinkPad X1 Carbon features a 14-inch IPS LCD panel with a higher resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels. This results in sharper images and more screen real estate, which can be beneficial for productivity tasks or graphic design.
Performance
The LG Gram and ThinkPad X1 Carbon are both powered by Intel Core processors, but they differ in their specific configurations. The Gram typically offers options ranging from Core i5 to Core i7, while the X1 Carbon provides a wider range, including Core i7 vPro and Intel Evo models.
In terms of memory and storage, both laptops offer generous options. The Gram can be configured with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of NVMe SSD storage, while the X1 Carbon supports up to 32GB of RAM and 2TB of storage.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for ultraportable laptops. The LG Gram excels in this area, boasting an impressive battery life of up to 20 hours on a single charge. This makes it one of the longest-lasting laptops on the market, ideal for users who need to stay connected all day long.
The ThinkPad X1 Carbon also offers solid battery life, with up to 15 hours of usage. While not as remarkable as the Gram, it still provides ample power for most users. Additionally, the X1 Carbon supports rapid charging, allowing it to reach 80% capacity in just 60 minutes.
Connectivity and Ports
The LG Gram and ThinkPad X1 Carbon offer a similar range of connectivity options. Both laptops feature Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, and Thunderbolt 4 ports. However, the X1 Carbon has a slight edge with its optional 5G WWAN connectivity, providing internet access even without Wi-Fi.
In terms of physical ports, the LG Gram includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, an HDMI port, and a microSD card slot. The ThinkPad X1 Carbon has a similar selection, with two Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, an HDMI port, and an Ethernet port via a dongle.
Security Features
Both the LG Gram and ThinkPad X1 Carbon prioritize security. The Gram features a fingerprint scanner embedded in the power button, allowing for quick and secure login. It also includes TPM 2.0 for hardware-based encryption.
The ThinkPad X1 Carbon takes security to the next level with its ThinkShield suite of features. This includes a fingerprint scanner, facial recognition, a webcam shutter, and a discrete TPM chip. It also meets MIL-STD-810G durability standards, ensuring it can withstand extreme conditions.
Which Laptop Is Right for You?
The choice between the LG Gram and ThinkPad X1 Carbon ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize lightness, exceptional battery life, and a vibrant display, the LG Gram is an excellent choice.
However, if you require a more robust design, higher resolution display, and enhanced security features, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon is the better option. Its rugged construction, optional 5G connectivity, and ThinkShield suite make it ideal for professionals who demand the best in durability and protection.
Final Verdict: A Matter of Priorities
Both the LG Gram and ThinkPad X1 Carbon are exceptional ultraportable laptops that cater to different audiences. The Gram’s feather-light weight and incredible battery life make it an ideal travel companion, while the X1 Carbon’s rugged design, high-resolution display, and robust security features make it a top choice for business professionals.
Ultimately, the best laptop for you is the one that best aligns with your specific requirements. By carefully considering the key differences outlined in this comparison, you can make an informed decision and choose the perfect device to enhance your productivity and mobility.
What You Need to Learn
1. Which laptop has a better keyboard?
The ThinkPad X1 Carbon is renowned for its excellent keyboard, which provides a comfortable and precise typing experience. The LG Gram‘s keyboard is also good, but it may not be as well-suited for extended typing sessions.
2. Which laptop is more durable?
The ThinkPad X1 Carbon has a more durable design with a carbon fiber chassis and MIL-STD-810G certification. It can withstand extreme conditions, making it a better choice for users who require a rugged device.
3. Which laptop is better for gaming?
Neither the LG Gram nor the ThinkPad X1 Carbon is particularly suited for gaming due to their integrated graphics. They are primarily designed for productivity and portability rather than gaming performance.