Fujitsu Lifebook 728 G4

Basic Information

• Model: Fujitsu Lifebook U728 (Notebook) and Fujitsu Lifebook P728 (2-in-1 Tablet/Notebook)
• Version: Not applicable (hardware model)
• Release Date: Late 2017 to early 2018 (based on data sheet dates and review publication dates)
• Minimum Requirements: Intel 8th generation Core processor, 4GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Windows 10 Pro 64-bit.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10 Pro (64-bit) and Windows 10 Home (64-bit). Certified for SUSE Enterprise Desktop.
• Latest Stable Version: Refers to the operating system, Windows 10.
• End of Support Date: Fujitsu provides Windows 10 support for a period of up to 5 years after the end of product life, depending on available hardware service extensions.
• End of Life: Not explicitly stated, but product pages are often marked as "archived content" indicating end of active sales/production.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Dependent on the supported Windows 10 lifecycle. Fujitsu supports Windows 10 releases covered by Microsoft Lifecycle Support.
• License Type: Typically OEM license for Windows 10 Pro.
• Deployment Model: Enterprise/Business, designed for mobile professionals, supporting common port replicators for workplace sharing.

The Fujitsu Lifebook 728 series, comprising the U728 notebook and P728 2-in-1, launched in late 2017/early 2018, targeting business professionals with a focus on mobility and security. Both models primarily support Windows 10 Pro (64-bit), with Fujitsu committing to support Windows 10 releases for up to five years post-product life, aligning with Microsoft's lifecycle. The deployment model emphasizes enterprise use, facilitated by shared docking solutions across the Lifebook U family.

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Intel Core i3 (7th Gen) up to Intel Core i7 (8th Gen) processors. Options include Intel Core i5-8250U, i5-8350U, i7-8550U, and i7-8650U (Kaby Lake Refresh).
• RAM: Up to 32 GB DDR4-2400 MHz (U728) or up to 16 GB DDR4-2400 MHz (P728) across two SO-DIMM slots (U728) or one SO-DIMM slot (P728). Some third-party vendors suggest up to 64GB for U728.
• Storage: M.2 SATA SSDs, available in capacities such as 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB. Options include Self-Encrypting Drive (SED) with TCG Opal 2.0 encryption.
• Display: 12.5-inch (31.8 cm) LED-backlit anti-glare display. Resolutions include HD (1366x768) or Full HD (1920x1080). The P728 model offers an optional Full HD touchscreen with Wacom Digitizer and 10-finger multi-touch. Brightness typically 260-300 cd/m², with some U728 units reaching higher.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 (8th Gen Intel).
• Ports:
  • Lifebook U728: 3x USB 3.0/3.1 Gen1, 1x VGA, 2x DisplayPort, 1x Kensington Lock, 1x Docking Station Port, combined headphone/microphone jack, 3-in-1 SD card reader, 1x SmartCard reader, 1x USB Type-C (supports DisplayPort and Power Delivery).
  • Lifebook P728: 1x USB Type-C (with power delivery), full-size LAN connector, full-size VGA port, full-size HDMI port, USB 3.0 ports.
• Operating System: Windows 10 Pro (64-bit) pre-installed.
• Dimensions (W x D x H):
  • Lifebook U728: 302 x 209 x 19 mm (0.75 x 11.89 x 8.23 inches).
  • Lifebook P728: Not explicitly stated, but similar to U728 and described as compact.
• Weight:
  • Lifebook U728: Starting from 1.11 kg (2.44 lbs) to 1.15 kg (2.54 lbs).
  • Lifebook P728: Starting from 1.2 kg (2.65 lbs).

The Fujitsu Lifebook 728 series offers robust specifications for mobile business use. Both the U728 and P728 are powered by 8th generation Intel Core processors, providing efficient performance. Memory configurations are generous, with the U728 supporting up to 32GB (and potentially 64GB via third-party upgrades) and the P728 up to 16GB of DDR4 RAM. Storage is fast and secure with M.2 SATA SSDs, including self-encrypting options. The 12.5-inch Full HD displays provide clear visuals, with the P728 adding versatile 2-in-1 touchscreen functionality. Connectivity is comprehensive, featuring modern USB-C alongside legacy ports like VGA, catering to diverse peripheral needs. The compact dimensions and lightweight design underscore their portability, making them suitable for professionals on the go.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: Refers to the hardware model (U728/P728) and the pre-installed operating system, Windows 10.
• OS Support: Primarily Windows 10 Pro (64-bit) and Windows 10 Home (64-bit). Certified for SUSE Enterprise Desktop. Fujitsu supports Windows 10 releases covered by Microsoft's lifecycle.
• End of Support Date: Fujitsu provides Windows 10 support for up to 5 years after the product's end of life, contingent on hardware service extensions.
• Localization: Drivers and software support multiple languages, with specific regional availability for certain display options.
• Available Drivers: Drivers are available for Windows 10 (64-bit) via Fujitsu's support portal and SCCM driver packages. These include drivers for Intel components (Wireless, Ethernet, Chipset), graphics, audio, and security features like fingerprint sensors.
• Cartridge and Ink Codes: Not applicable (laptop).

The Fujitsu Lifebook 728 series demonstrates strong support and compatibility, especially within an enterprise Windows 10 environment. Fujitsu actively provides drivers and SCCM packages for Windows 10 (64-bit), ensuring smooth integration and management. The commitment to supporting Windows 10 releases for an extended period post-product life, tied to Microsoft's lifecycle, offers long-term viability for businesses. Localization is broad, with drivers supporting various languages. The availability of comprehensive driver packages simplifies deployment and maintenance for IT departments.

Security Status

• Security Features: Embedded palm vein sensor (optional), fingerprint sensor, Trusted Platform Module (TPM 2.0), integrated SmartCard reader, hard disk password, user and supervisor BIOS password, Kensington Lock support, Absolute Persistence® technology capable BIOS, EraseDisk (optional).
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific widespread vulnerabilities are highlighted in the provided data, but general security recommendations apply.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable.
• Certifications: ENERGY STAR, EPEAT Gold (depending on configuration), MIL-STD-810G (selected tests passed).
• Encryption Support: TCG Opal 2.0 for Self-Encrypting Drives (SED), TPM 2.0 for hardware-based encryption.
• Authentication Methods: Fingerprint sensor, optional palm vein sensor (PalmSecure®), SmartCard reader, BIOS password, Windows Hello (via biometric sensors).
• General Recommendations: Utilize strong passwords, enable biometric authentication, ensure TPM is active, and keep the operating system and drivers updated.

The Fujitsu Lifebook 728 series boasts an excellent security rating, integrating multiple layers of protection crucial for enterprise environments. Key features include TPM 2.0, fingerprint and optional palm vein sensors, and SmartCard readers, providing robust authentication and data encryption capabilities. The support for TCG Opal 2.0 SEDs ensures data at rest is secure. Compliance with MIL-STD-810G (selected tests) and certifications like EPEAT Gold and ENERGY STAR further attest to its reliability and responsible design. These comprehensive security measures aim to protect sensitive business data from unauthorized access.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • System Performance (U728): Subjectively smooth in daily use, with adequate scores in PCMark benchmarks.
  • GPU Performance (U728 with i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620): Geekbench 5 OpenCL scores show a GPU score of 4137. Specific task scores include Background Blur (1971), Face Detection (1406), Horizon Detection (4973), Edge Detection (6051), Gaussian Blur (3537), Feature Matching (1348), Stereo Matching (16522), Particle Physics (13053).
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Designed for business professionals, handling typical office productivity tasks, web browsing, and light multimedia consumption efficiently. The 8th Gen Intel Core processors provide a noticeable performance uplift over previous generations.
• Power Consumption: Not explicitly detailed, but designed for mobile use with efficient processors.
• Carbon Footprint: Not explicitly detailed, but Fujitsu mentions its "Green Policy Innovation" project aimed at reducing environmental burdens.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: The Lifebook U728 is compared to competitors like the HP EliteBook 830 G5, Lenovo ThinkPad X280, and Dell Latitude 7280/7390, often performing comparably or excelling in display brightness.

The Fujitsu Lifebook 728 series delivers solid performance for its target audience of business professionals. Equipped with 8th generation Intel Core processors, it provides smooth system performance for daily tasks, as indicated by PCMark benchmarks. While not a gaming machine, the integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 handles general graphical workloads adequately, with specific Geekbench scores available for the U728. Battery life is a strong point, with the U728 offering up to 13 hours and 10 minutes, and the P728 up to 10 hours, based on MobileMark 2014, ensuring all-day productivity. The series competes well against similar ultra-mobile business notebooks from other major manufacturers.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback generally highlights the Fujitsu Lifebook 728 series as reliable and portable devices well-suited for professional use. Strengths frequently mentioned include the compact and lightweight design, making them ideal for travel and mobile work. The robust security features, such as fingerprint and palm vein sensors, are highly appreciated for protecting sensitive data. Users also value the comprehensive connectivity options, including legacy ports, which reduce the need for adapters. The P728's 2-in-1 functionality and long battery life are often cited as significant advantages for versatile working styles.

Potential weaknesses or areas for improvement sometimes include the absence of an HDMI port on some U728 configurations (though USB-C with DisplayPort is available) and the use of a proprietary docking port. Wireless performance on some U728 units was noted as slower compared to competitors in specific tests. The P728's maximum RAM capacity is lower than the U728.

Recommended use cases for the Lifebook 728 series primarily revolve around mobile business professionals, executives, and users requiring a secure, portable, and versatile computing solution for office productivity, presentations, and light content creation. The P728, with its 2-in-1 design, is particularly recommended for roles benefiting from tablet functionality and pen input.

Summary

The Fujitsu Lifebook 728 series, encompassing the U728 notebook and P728 2-in-1, stands out as a highly capable and secure solution for enterprise asset management. Its core strengths lie in its exceptional portability, robust security features, and reliable performance driven by 8th generation Intel Core processors. Both models offer a compact 12.5-inch Full HD display, with the P728 adding the versatility of a touchscreen and 2-in-1 form factor. Comprehensive connectivity, including modern USB-C and essential legacy ports, ensures broad compatibility in diverse work environments. Long battery life, up to 13 hours for the U728 and 10 hours for the P728, supports all-day productivity for mobile professionals.

The series excels in security, featuring TPM 2.0, fingerprint and optional palm vein authentication, SmartCard readers, and self-encrypting drive options, making it a strong choice for protecting sensitive corporate data. Fujitsu's commitment to extended Windows 10 support further enhances its appeal for long-term enterprise deployment. While some configurations of the U728 might lack an HDMI port or exhibit slightly slower wireless performance compared to some rivals, these are minor considerations against the overall package of mobility, security, and functionality.

In conclusion, the Fujitsu Lifebook 728 series is an excellent choice for organizations seeking a secure, highly portable, and dependable computing asset for their mobile workforce. Its blend of performance, advanced security, and user-friendly design makes it a strong contender in the ultra-mobile business notebook segment.

Please note: 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.