Why the ThinkPad E16 Gen 3 Is Worth the Upgrade
The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 series is designed to be the "budget titan" of the business laptop world, offering the classic ThinkPad durability without the premium price tag. In this review, we compare the latest Gen 3 model against its predecessor, the Gen 2, to see if the upgrades justify the jump. While both are solid, the Gen 3 delivers crucial quality-of-life fixes that make it the far superior option.
Performance: More Power, Less Thirst
The most significant upgrade under the hood is the shift to the second-generation Intel Core Ultra processors in the E16 Gen 3. The Gen 2 used the first-generation chips, and the difference in efficiency is notable. According to testing, the newer, second-gen Ultra processor is not just as powerful but significantly more efficient.
Key Takeaway: Business users can expect a substantial boost in mobility, with at least a 20% improvement in battery life on the E16 Gen 3 compared to the Gen 2. This alone is a compelling reason for frequent travelers or those who rely on unplugged work.
Usability: Fixing the Flaws
Lenovo clearly listened to feedback, as the Gen 3 addresses two of the Gen 2’s most frustrating issues:
The Trackpad: The trackpad on the E16 Gen 2 was notoriously unresponsive—even described as "awful." The reviewer almost returned the laptop solely because of this issue. Thankfully, the Gen 3 features a much more responsive touch surface, transforming the user experience from frustrating to functional. This is arguably the most essential upgrade.
Keyboard Layout: In a "well done Lenovo" moment, the Gen 3 reverts the often-misplaced Control and Function (Fn) keys back to their traditional positions. This small but critical change eliminates the muscle memory headaches that plagued users of the Gen 2.
Design, Keyboard, and The Weight Problem
In terms of physical design, the two generations are remarkably similar in size and aesthetic, maintaining the classic black, solid, and durable ThinkPad look (complete with the popular TrackPoint "nipple" in the center of the keyboard).
The keyboard experience remains a high point for both, featuring comfortable keys that operate silently. Furthermore, both models include the essential security feature of a physical shutter for the camera, which is highly supported for any modern business laptop.
However, the main shared drawback is weight. Both the Gen 2 and Gen 3 are described as "very solid machines" that feel "pretty heavy in the hand," which is something prospective buyers must accept if they are looking for a highly durable, budget-focused 16-inch model. Additionally, the Gen 2 showed some stability issues with Wi-Fi 6 reception, an issue expected to be resolved in the newer Gen 3 model.
Final Verdict
The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 3 is not a revolutionary redesign, but a crucial refinement. It takes a durable, budget-friendly chassis and plugs the two major holes from the previous generation: the awful trackpad and the poor keyboard layout choice.
Who should buy the E16 Gen 3?
- Anyone looking for a reliable, large-screen business laptop on a budget.
- Anyone considering the E16 Gen 2—the Gen 3 is worth the price difference for the superior trackpad and battery life alone.
The E16 Gen 3 is a solid, practical, and highly recommended update that truly deserves the title of "budget titan."
Comments