Final Thoughts
With its 1.3GHz ULV processor and small size the ThinkPad Edge fits somewhere in between a netbook and ultraportable notebook. I really don’t think we would be seeing systems like this without Windows 7. With Windows 7 you are able to have an underpowered system like this run flawlessly. We had no issues running multiple programs as well as HD video on the Edge. So for business applications this system is great and you should have no problem using it for office tasks like surfing the web or using Microsoft Word. I wouldn’t expect to do any gaming with the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD.
The stylish design of the Edge does make it more appealing for consumers and small business users. I was really surprised when Lenovo showed us these at CES, but it does seem that Lenovo has mixed a good amount of consumer and well as business features into the Edge. Most importantly would have to be the ThinkVantage tools, which really are more powerful than any other system tool’s that I’ve seen on a laptop. Things like the active protection system make sure you data stays safe as well.
The biggest change most ThinkPad users will notice is the keyboard. While the keyboard has been changed it is still very comfortable and very comparable to the ThinkPad keyboards of the past.
Since this system is so small and light at only 3.6lbs it is great for traveling as well. The 13.3-inch size is what many people are traveling with these days. With the ULV processor you should be able to make it through any flight in the US without having to use a secondary battery, which is very impressive.
While it is not a big deal to me many people may not like that this system does not have an optical drive. USB optical drives are quite inexpensive, but it would have been nice to see an optical drive here. Also I really missed the ThinkVantage menu and dedicated button on the keyboard.
The Intel version of the Edge starts out at $799 and the AMD version at $579, which is very comparable to the other 13-inch ULV notebooks out there. Overall ThinkComputers gives the Lenovo ThinkPad Edge 13-inch Notebook a 9 out of 10 score and our Recommended Award!
Pros:
– Great mix of consumer and business features
– ThinkVantage Tools
– New keyboard does not disappoint
– Great battery life
Cons:
– No optical drive
