LG Gram 16 Business

The LG Gram 16 Business is a lightweight, ultraportable laptop designed for productivity and on-the-go use, offering a blend of performance, portability, and a large display. It targets business users who require a capable machine for everyday tasks, multitasking, and even some creative work, without the burden of a heavy device.

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Intel Core Ultra 5 or Ultra 7 (Meteor Lake) with integrated Intel Arc graphics, or 13th Gen Intel Core i7-1360P/13th Gen Intel Core i7-1360P with Intel Iris Xe graphics, or 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P with Intel Iris Xe graphics.
• RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR5X (7467MHz) or LPDDR5 (5200MHz), soldered.
• Storage: Up to 2TB NVMe Gen4 SSD, with options for up to 8TB SSD. Features two SSD slots, with some configurations offering RAID 0.
• Display: 16-inch WQXGA (2560 x 1600) IPS display with a 16:10 aspect ratio. Options include 60Hz non-touch, 60Hz touchscreen, or 144Hz non-touch with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). Features anti-glare coating and DCI-P3 color coverage. Brightness typically ranges from 350 to 400 nits.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics or Intel Arc Graphics. Optional dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 GPU in some configurations.
• Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C with Power Delivery), two USB 3.2 Type-A, one HDMI 2.0 or 2.1, a microSD card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone/mic combo jack.
• Wireless Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E (2x2/160) Gig+ and Bluetooth 5.2 or 5.3.
• Webcam: 1080p FHD webcam with IR for facial recognition.
• Battery: 77Wh, 80Wh, or 90Wh high-capacity battery.
• Weight: Approximately 1.199 kg to 1.299 kg (2.6 to 2.9 lbs).
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro.

Analysis of Technical Specifications: The LG Gram 16 Business consistently prioritizes portability and screen real estate, featuring a large 16-inch WQXGA IPS display in a lightweight chassis. The processor options, ranging from 12th Gen Intel Core i7 to the newer Intel Core Ultra 5/7 (Meteor Lake), provide ample power for general productivity, multitasking, and even some photo/video editing. The inclusion of Intel Arc Graphics in newer models or optional NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 in some configurations enhances graphical capabilities, making it suitable for more demanding creative tasks. RAM is ample at up to 32GB LPDDR5X, though it is soldered, limiting future upgrades. Storage is generous with NVMe Gen4 SSDs and often includes a second slot for expansion, offering flexibility for users needing more space. The port selection is robust for an ultrabook, including Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, and multiple USB-A ports, which is beneficial for connectivity. The high-resolution, color-accurate display is a significant strength, especially for tasks requiring visual precision. The battery capacity is notably high, contributing to excellent battery life. The primary trade-off for its extreme lightness is often perceived build quality, with some users noting chassis flex, though it meets military-grade durability standards.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Primarily supports Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Pro.
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly stated for specific models, but LG provides updates and support through its "LG Update Program" for drivers and software.
• Available Drivers: Drivers are available through the LG Update Program, which automatically searches and installs suitable device drivers. Users can also download wireless/wired LAN drivers from LG's website if an internet connection is unavailable.
• Compatibility with other systems: Features Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2/5.3 for broad wireless compatibility. Thunderbolt 4 ports ensure compatibility with a wide range of modern peripherals and docking stations. LG Gram Link app allows seamless file sharing, screen mirroring, and using the phone camera as a webcam with mobile devices.

Analysis of Support & Compatibility Status: The LG Gram 16 Business offers strong compatibility with the Windows ecosystem, shipping with Windows 11. LG provides a dedicated "LG Update Program" to streamline driver and software updates, which is crucial for maintaining system performance and security. However, some user feedback indicates potential challenges with driver availability and support, particularly for specific components like touchscreens or microphones, especially when installing an OS independently. There are also user concerns about the frequency of BIOS and driver updates from LG, which can be a security and compatibility concern over the long term. The inclusion of Thunderbolt 4 ports significantly enhances its compatibility with a broad array of external devices and monitors, making it versatile for various business setups. The LG Gram Link app adds value by improving integration with mobile devices, facilitating cross-device workflows.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • IR FHD webcam with facial recognition for Windows Hello.
  • Fingerprint reader integrated into the power button.
  • LG Glance by Mirametrix® suite: Includes Presence Detection (auto-screen off), Smart Display (blurs screen when not in use), and Privacy Alert (warns of visual hacking attempts).
  • Kensington security lock slot.
  • MIL-STD-810H certified for military-grade durability against shock, dust, and temperature extremes.
  • Built-in security features and anti-virus software.
• Vulnerabilities:
  • Potential for outdated BIOS and drivers if not regularly updated by LG, which could leave the system susceptible to vulnerabilities.
  • Chassis flex, while not a direct security vulnerability, can raise concerns about physical integrity under stress.
• Recommendations:
  • Enable automatic updates for the operating system and utilize the LG Update Program for device drivers and software.
  • Regularly check LG's official support website for the latest BIOS and driver updates.
  • Leverage LG Glance by Mirametrix® features for enhanced privacy in public or shared environments.
  • Implement strong password policies and multi-factor authentication where possible.
  • Utilize the Kensington lock slot for physical security in public spaces.

Analysis on the Security Status: The LG Gram 16 Business offers a comprehensive suite of security features, particularly for user authentication and privacy. The combination of an IR webcam for facial recognition and a fingerprint reader provides convenient and robust biometric login options. The LG Glance by Mirametrix® software is a notable addition, actively protecting against visual hacking and enhancing privacy through features like presence detection and privacy alerts. Physical durability, evidenced by MIL-STD-810H certification, adds a layer of protection against environmental stressors. However, a potential area of concern lies in the consistency and frequency of BIOS and driver updates from LG. User feedback suggests that LG's update cadence for drivers can be slow, which could leave systems vulnerable to newly discovered exploits if patches are not promptly released. While LG provides an update program, proactive monitoring for critical updates is recommended. Overall, the LG Gram 16 Business is well-equipped with modern security features, but users should remain vigilant about software and firmware updates.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • Cinebench R23 (CPU Rendering): Single-core scores around 1,260 and multi-core scores around 5,972 for 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P. Newer Intel Core Ultra processors show improved performance.
  • Geekbench 5: Performance is generally adequate for productivity tasks.
  • Storage Drive Performance: NVMe Gen4 SSDs offer impressive read/write speeds, e.g., 6,950 MB/s read and 4,479 MB/s write for a 1TB Samsung PM9A1 SSD.
  • Battery Life: Consistently excellent, often exceeding 10-15 hours of light use or video playback. Examples include over 15 hours for light use (2024 model) and 13 hours, 8 minutes on streaming video tests.
• Real-World Performance Metrics:
  • Handles productivity tasks (text processing, emails, spreadsheets, presentations) with ease.
  • Capable of light photo and video editing, and casual gaming, especially with Intel Arc Graphics or optional RTX 3050.
  • Performance remains snappy whether plugged in or on battery for everyday use, though a noticeable drop can occur for power-intensive tasks on battery.
  • Thermal management is generally good for daily use, with heat concentrated near function keys during heavier workloads. Fans can become noticeable under medium-high loads.
• Comparison with Similar Devices:
  • Often compared favorably to other ultrabooks for its exceptional lightness and battery life, but may lag behind some rivals in raw CPU performance under sustained heavy loads due to thermal constraints.
  • Build quality, particularly chassis flex, is sometimes noted as a trade-off compared to heavier, all-aluminum laptops like the MacBook Pro.
  • Display quality (color accuracy, resolution) is often praised, sometimes even over competing OLED panels for long-term use due to lack of PWM flicker and burn-in risk.

Analysis of the Performance Status: The LG Gram 16 Business delivers strong performance for its intended use case: a highly portable business laptop. Its Intel Core Ultra or 13th/12th Gen Intel Core processors, coupled with ample RAM and fast NVMe SSDs, ensure smooth operation for daily productivity, multitasking, and even moderately demanding applications like photo editing and light video work. While benchmark scores for CPU-intensive tasks might not always match heavier, performance-focused laptops, the Gram 16 excels in responsiveness and efficiency. A standout feature is its exceptional battery life, consistently providing over 10-15 hours of usage, making it ideal for mobile professionals. Thermal management is designed for quiet operation during light use, though fans become audible and performance may throttle under sustained heavy loads to prevent overheating. The optional dedicated RTX 3050 GPU in some models significantly boosts its capability for graphical tasks and light gaming, expanding its versatility. Overall, the LG Gram 16 Business balances performance with its ultra-light design, making it highly effective for users prioritizing portability and battery life over raw, sustained computational power.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews consistently highlight the LG Gram 16 Business's exceptional thinness and lightness as its primary advantage, often leading to surprise at its portability for a 16-inch laptop. The large, high-resolution 16:10 display is frequently praised for providing ample screen real estate for multitasking, its sharpness, and good color accuracy, with the anti-glare finish being a welcome improvement in newer models. Battery life receives widespread acclaim, with many users reporting that it easily lasts a full workday or more. The keyboard is generally considered comfortable for typing, often featuring a numpad, though some find the key travel a bit heavy or the layout slightly off-centered due to the numpad. The touchpad is described as large, smooth, and responsive. Performance is deemed more than adequate for general productivity, web browsing, and office applications, with newer models handling light creative tasks well. However, a recurring point of feedback concerns the build quality, with some users noting chassis flex in the keyboard deck and lid, which can make it feel less premium or sturdy compared to heavier, all-metal laptops, despite its military-grade durability. Speakers are generally considered average, suitable for casual listening but lacking in bass or true spatial audio. Some users express frustration with LG's driver support and update frequency, particularly for specific components or when installing operating systems independently. The brightness of the display, while generally good indoors, can be insufficient for bright outdoor conditions.

Summary

The LG Gram 16 Business stands out as a highly compelling ultraportable laptop, primarily defined by its remarkably lightweight design and expansive 16-inch display. It targets professionals who demand a large screen and long battery life without compromising on portability. Key strengths include its stunning WQXGA (2560x1600) IPS display, which offers excellent color accuracy, a productivity-friendly 16:10 aspect ratio, and an anti-glare finish, making it suitable for detailed work and extended use. The battery life is consistently exceptional, often providing over 15 hours of use, ensuring all-day productivity away from a power outlet. Performance, driven by Intel Core Ultra or 13th/12th Gen Intel Core processors and fast NVMe Gen4 SSDs, is robust for general business applications, multitasking, and even light creative workloads. The comprehensive port selection, including Thunderbolt 4, enhances its versatility for connectivity and peripherals. Security features like facial recognition, a fingerprint reader, and the LG Glance by Mirametrix® suite provide strong protection for user data and privacy.

However, the LG Gram 16 Business does have some weaknesses. The ultra-light magnesium alloy chassis, while contributing to its portability, can exhibit noticeable flex in the lid and keyboard deck, which some users perceive as a lack of premium feel or sturdiness, despite its MIL-STD-810H durability certification. While performance is good for its class, it may experience thermal throttling under sustained heavy loads, meaning it is not designed for continuous, intensive workstation tasks. User feedback also points to potential inconsistencies in LG's driver and BIOS update support, which could be a long-term concern for security and compatibility. The display brightness, while adequate indoors, might struggle in very bright outdoor environments.

Recommendations: The LG Gram 16 Business is highly recommended for mobile professionals, executives, and students who prioritize extreme portability, a large high-quality display, and exceptional battery life for productivity and light creative work. It is an excellent choice for those who frequently travel or work remotely and need a reliable, lightweight companion. Users should be mindful of the chassis flex and manage expectations regarding sustained heavy workload performance. It is advisable to utilize LG's update tools and regularly check for driver and BIOS updates to maintain optimal security and compatibility. For users requiring a dedicated GPU for more intensive graphics tasks, specific configurations with the optional NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 should be considered.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.