Lenovo has always been a trusted name in the world of business laptops, and the ThinkPad series is synonymous with durability, performance, and innovation. At CES 2025, Lenovo unveiled the ThinkPad X9 Aura, a bold departure from the classic ThinkPad design, featuring Intel’s Lunar Lake chips and a sleek, modern aesthetic. Priced at $1,349 for the 16-inch variant and $1,239 for the 14-inch model, the ThinkPad X9 Aura is now available in the US market. But does it live up to the ThinkPad legacy? In this detailed review, we’ll explore its features, performance, pros and cons, and help you decide if it’s worth your investment.
The ThinkPad X9 Aura brings a fresh design and cutting-edge features to the table. Here’s a closer look at what it offers:
The ThinkPad X9 Aura breaks away from the traditional ThinkPad design. Gone is the iconic TrackPoint, replaced by a large haptic touchpad. The keyboard layout has also been redesigned to resemble Apple’s MacBook, offering a more modern typing experience. Instead of the classic black finish, the X9 Aura features a sleek silver aluminum body, giving it a premium and contemporary look.
One of the standout features of the X9 Aura is its OLED display, available across all models. The 14-inch variant comes with a WUXGA OLED panel (1,920 x 1,200, 60Hz, 400 nits), while the 15.3-inch model boasts a sharper 2.8K OLED display (2,880 x 1,800, 120Hz, 500 nits). Both screens deliver vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast, making them ideal for productivity and media consumption.
Under the hood, the ThinkPad X9 Aura is powered by Intel’s Lunar Lake Core Ultra 200V processors, which focus on efficiency rather than raw performance. This makes the laptop ideal for everyday tasks, multitasking, and light creative work. To ensure sustained performance, Lenovo has included an active cooling system with dual fans, a notable contrast to Apple’s passively cooled MacBook Air.
The RAM is integrated into the processor, with options for 16GB or 32GB. Storage is upgradable up to 2TB via an M.2 2242 SSD, providing ample space for files and applications.
The ThinkPad X9 Aura doesn’t compromise on ports, a rarity in modern ultrabooks. It features an “Engine Hub” with two Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI, and a 3.5mm audio jack. The 15.3-inch model adds a USB-A port for added convenience. However, the lack of LTE or 5G connectivity might be a drawback for business users who rely on mobile networks.
The 15.3-inch model comes with a larger 80Wh battery, while the 14-inch version has a 55Wh capacity. Both models support fast charging, ensuring you spend less time plugged in. The larger model also includes four speakers and an 8MP webcam, while these are optional upgrades on the 14-inch variant.
The ThinkPad X9 Aura is priced at $1,349 for the 16-inch variant and $1,239 for the 14-inch model. While it’s not the most affordable option in the market, the price is justified by its premium design, OLED display, and efficient performance.
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The ThinkPad X9 Aura is designed for efficiency, making it a great choice for professionals who need a reliable laptop for everyday tasks. The Intel Lunar Lake Core Ultra 200V processor handles multitasking and light workloads with ease, though it may not be suitable for heavy gaming or resource-intensive applications. The active cooling system ensures that the laptop maintains consistent performance over time.
The laptop runs on Windows 11, offering a smooth and user-friendly experience. Lenovo’s software additions are minimal, ensuring a clean and bloatware-free environment.
The OLED display is a highlight of the ThinkPad X9 Aura, offering stunning visuals with vibrant colors and deep blacks. The 15.3-inch model’s 2.8K OLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate is particularly impressive, making it ideal for both work and entertainment. The four speakers on the larger model deliver decent audio quality, though audiophiles might prefer external speakers or headphones.
The 80Wh battery on the 15.3-inch model provides solid battery life, easily lasting a full workday on moderate usage. The 55Wh battery on the 14-inch variant is adequate but may require more frequent charging. Fast charging support ensures you can quickly top up the battery when needed.
The ThinkPad X9 Aura’s modern design is a refreshing change from the traditional ThinkPad aesthetic. The haptic touchpad is responsive and intuitive, while the redesigned keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience. The silver aluminum body gives the laptop a premium feel, though it may not appeal to fans of the classic ThinkPad look.
The Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura is a compelling choice for professionals who value design, display quality, and efficiency. It’s ideal for those who need a reliable laptop for everyday tasks, multitasking, and light creative work. However, if you’re a heavy gamer or require LTE/5G connectivity, you might want to explore other options.
For its price, the ThinkPad X9 Aura offers excellent value, especially with its OLED display, efficient performance, and premium build quality. If you’re looking for a modern, stylish, and capable business laptop, the ThinkPad X9 Aura is definitely worth considering.
In conclusion, the Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura successfully blends innovation with functionality, making it a strong contender in the premium laptop market. While it may not appeal to traditional ThinkPad enthusiasts, it’s a great choice for those seeking a modern and efficient workhorse.
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