Is this what Millennials want - Lenovo Thinkpad Z13 (2022)
**Lenovo ThinkPad Z13 Fold Review: A Deep Dive into Design, Features, and Performance**
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### **Introduction: The Rise of Leather Laptops**
In an attempt to appeal to Millennials, companies often go to great lengths. One such example is the trend of "leather laptops." While it might sound unusual, HP once tried a laptop with real leather, and it smelled fantastic—almost like an old baseball glove. However, Lenovo took this concept further by creating a laptop with faux leather made from recycled plastic bottles. This decision raises questions: Is this innovation worth it? Does it appeal to the right audience?
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### **Design and Build Quality**
The Lenovo ThinkPad Z13 Fold is a well-crafted machine. Its design features diamond-cut edges that give it a sleek, premium look without being overly flashy. The build quality is exceptional, as demonstrated by its flexibility. Pressing on the laptop results in macro chassis flexing, indicating durability rather than weakness. This suggests that the keyboard, which we will discuss later, should be sturdy and reliable.
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### **Display and Screen**
The ThinkPad Z13 Fold comes with a 1920x1200p IPS touch screen. While this is not the best display available (as Lenovo also offers a Quad HD OLED model), it performs well for everyday use. During testing, the display was clear and suitable for tasks like video calls and general computing. However, those seeking higher visual quality might want to consider the OLED version.
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### **Keyboard, Trackpad, and TrackPoint**
The keyboard on the ThinkPad Z13 Fold is a point of contention. Unlike the long-travel keys typically associated with ThinkPads, this model has shorter travel but a soft, snap-like feel that many users might find pleasant. The trackpad is another standout feature—it is large enough to accommodate most hand sizes and allows for customization of click force. A notable inclusion is the TrackPoint, which has been redesigned to avoid sacrificing trackpad space. This results in subtle indicators on the keyboard, making it easy to locate without losing functionality.
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### **Webcam and Audio**
Lenovo made a significant effort with the webcam, laser-engraving "FHD" on its surface. The webcam performs well, producing clear video despite some minor graininess. The microphone array is also commendable for capturing audio accurately. On the audio side, the laptop features Dolby Atmos certification, providing excellent sound quality for calls and media consumption. However, the lack of facing speakers means the soundstage is not as immersive as it could be.
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### **Performance and Hardware**
Under the hood, the ThinkPad Z13 Fold boasts an AMD Ryzen 7 6850U processor with 8 cores and 16 threads, paired with 16GB of fast RAM (6400 MHz). The SSD is a 500GB Micron model, and the laptop supports Wi-Fi 6E. Performance-wise, it handles everyday tasks and light gaming effortlessly. However, those expecting high-end gaming performance might be disappointed, as the integrated graphics cap frame rates at lower settings.
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### **Thermal Performance and Cooling**
One issue that arose during testing was thermal throttling. The keyboard and touchpad became hot enough to cause discomfort after just a few minutes of use. While Lenovo includes "intelligent cooling," this feature prioritizes performance over heat management, leaving users wishing for a "cool mode" similar to Dell's offerings.
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### **Upgradability and Expandability**
The ThinkPad Z13 Fold impresses in terms of expandability. The chassis allows for upgrading the SSD and Wi-Fi card, which is rare in 13-inch laptops. However, only two fans and a vapor chamber contribute to limited cooling capacity. The battery life claims 18.3 hours, but real-world usage might be closer to 10-12 hours.
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### **Price and Value**
Pricing starts at $1,705 for the Ryzen 5 variant and goes up to around $2,000 depending on configuration. While this is competitive with laptops like the Dell XPS 13 or HP Specter x360, it raises questions about value. The faux leather design might not justify the premium for those who prefer real materials.
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### **Conclusion: Is It Worth It?**
The Lenovo ThinkPad Z13 Fold excels in build quality, keyboard comfort, and expandability but falls short in display quality and thermal performance. Its ideal audience is small-handed users or professionals who prioritize durability and reliability over aesthetics. For those with larger hands or gaming needs, alternatives like the Dell XPS 15 might be more suitable.
In summary, the ThinkPad Z13 Fold is a solid choice for its target demographic but may not be worth the price for everyone.