What to know
- The E490 comes with a choice of Core i5 or Core i7 CPUs, while the T490 offers a wider range of options, including Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 processors.
- The T490 has the added advantage of a Thunderbolt 3 port, which provides faster data transfer speeds and can be used to connect to external displays or other peripherals.
- The T490, on the other hand, is a more premium laptop with a lighter and more compact design, a brighter display, and longer battery life.
When it comes to business laptops, Lenovo ThinkPad has long been a trusted name. With their sleek designs, durable construction, and powerful performance, ThinkPads are the epitome of productivity and reliability. However, with so many models to choose from, selecting the right one can be a daunting task. In this comprehensive comparison, we will pit the Lenovo ThinkPad E490 against the T490 to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The E490 and T490 share a similar aesthetic, with their classic ThinkPad black chassis and red TrackPoint. However, the T490 boasts a more premium build quality. It features a magnesium alloy lid and a carbon fiber-reinforced chassis, making it lighter and more durable than the E490. Additionally, the T490 has a more compact footprint, making it ideal for those who value portability.
Display
Both the E490 and T490 offer a 14-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. However, the T490 has a slight edge in terms of display quality. It features a brighter and more vibrant IPS panel with wider viewing angles. This makes it better suited for tasks that require color accuracy, such as graphic design or video editing.
Performance
The E490 and T490 are both powered by Intel’s 8th-generation Core processors. The E490 comes with a choice of Core i5 or Core i7 CPUs, while the T490 offers a wider range of options, including Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 processors. In terms of performance, the T490 has a slight advantage due to its more powerful cooling system, which allows it to sustain higher clock speeds for longer periods.
Storage and Memory
Both the E490 and T490 offer a variety of storage and memory options. The E490 comes with up to 512GB of SSD storage and 8GB of RAM, while the T490 offers up to 1TB of SSD storage and 16GB of RAM. The T490 also has the option of a PCIe NVMe SSD, which provides significantly faster read and write speeds.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for business laptops. The E490 has a slightly larger battery capacity than the T490, but the T490’s more efficient design and display result in longer battery life. In real-world usage, the T490 can last up to 15 hours on a single charge, while the E490 typically lasts around 12-13 hours.
Ports and Connectivity
The E490 and T490 offer a similar range of ports and connectivity options. Both laptops have two USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, one USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C port, an HDMI port, and a microSD card reader. The T490 has the added advantage of a Thunderbolt 3 port, which provides faster data transfer speeds and can be used to connect to external displays or other peripherals.
Security
Security is paramount for business laptops. Both the E490 and T490 come with a variety of security features, including a fingerprint scanner, TPM 2.0 chip, and Kensington lock slot. However, the T490 offers additional security features, such as a privacy shutter for the webcam and an optional Smart Card reader.
Which One Should You Choose?
The Lenovo ThinkPad E490 and T490 are both excellent business laptops, but they cater to different needs. The E490 is a more budget-friendly option with a solid build quality and good performance. It is ideal for users who prioritize value and durability. The T490, on the other hand, is a more premium laptop with a lighter and more compact design, a brighter display, and longer battery life. It is the better choice for users who demand the best in performance, portability, and security.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which laptop has a better display?
A: The Lenovo ThinkPad T490 has a slightly better display than the E490, with a brighter and more vibrant IPS panel.
Q: Which laptop has longer battery life?
A: The Lenovo ThinkPad T490 has longer battery life than the E490, lasting up to 15 hours on a single charge.
Q: Which laptop is more secure?
A: The Lenovo ThinkPad T490 offers additional security features, such as a privacy shutter for the webcam and an optional Smart Card reader.