Lenovo ThinkPad P 14 Gen 1

Basic Information

• Model: Lenovo ThinkPad P14s Gen 1 (available in Intel and AMD variants)
• Version: Gen 1
• Release Date: The Intel variant was released around May 2020, and the AMD variant in late 2020.
• Minimum Requirements: Not explicitly stated, but typically aligns with the preloaded operating systems and hardware configurations.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10 Pro, Windows 10 Home, Ubuntu Linux LTS, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux (certified only).
• Latest Stable Version: The "Gen 1" itself represents the initial stable release.
• End of Support Date: Specific end-of-support dates are not explicitly detailed in the provided information. However, PSREF documents for the Intel variant are dated May 23, 2022, and for the AMD variant, January 25, 2024, which may indicate the end of active product information updates or sales periods.
• End of Life Date: Not explicitly stated.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not explicitly stated.
• License Type: Typically comes with a preloaded Windows 10 Pro license.
• Deployment Model: Mobile Workstation.

Technical Specifications

• Processor:
  • Intel variants feature 10th Gen Intel Core i5/i7 processors (e.g., i5-10210U, i5-10310U, i7-10510U, i7-10610U, i7-10710U, i7-10810U) with 4 to 6 cores and base frequencies from 1.1GHz to 1.8GHz, boosting up to 4.9GHz.
  • AMD variants feature AMD Ryzen PRO 4000 series processors (e.g., Ryzen 7 PRO 4750U) with up to 8 cores and base frequencies from 1.7GHz, boosting up to 4.1GHz.
• RAM: Up to 48GB DDR4. Configurations include 8GB or 16GB soldered to the system board, with one SO-DIMM slot supporting up to 32GB. Memory speed is DDR4-2666 for Intel models and DDR4-3200 for AMD models, though Intel models may run at 2666MHz due to processor limitations.
• Storage: Up to 2TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD. Some configurations include Intel Optane Memory integrated with the SSD.
• Display: 14.0-inch displays with various options:
  • Full HD (1920x1080) IPS with brightness ranging from 250 nits to 500 nits, some with touch, low power, or ThinkPad Privacy Guard technology.
  • 4K UHD (3840x2160) IPS with Dolby Vision HDR, 500 nits brightness, 100% Adobe RGB, and X-Rite Pantone factory color calibration.
• Graphics:
  • Intel variants typically include NVIDIA Quadro P520 with 2GB GDDR5 discrete graphics, alongside integrated Intel UHD Graphics.
  • AMD variants feature integrated AMD Radeon Graphics (e.g., Radeon RX Vega 7).
• Ports:
  • 2x USB 3.1 Gen 1 (or USB 3.2 Gen 1, one Always On).
  • USB-C ports: Intel models include 1x USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 (Power Delivery, DisplayPort) and 2x USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 / Thunderbolt 3 (Power Delivery, DisplayPort). AMD models include 2x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (Power Delivery, DisplayPort).
  • 1x HDMI (1.4b for Intel, 2.0 for AMD).
  • 1x microSD card reader.
  • 1x Ethernet (RJ-45).
  • 1x Headphone/microphone combo jack (3.5mm).
  • Side docking connector.
  • Optional Smart Card Reader.
  • Optional nano-SIM card slot for WWAN.
• Operating System: Windows 10 Pro (64-bit) is commonly preloaded.
• Dimensions (WxDxH): 329 x 227 x 17.9 mm (12.95 x 8.94 x 0.70 inches).
• Weight: Starting from 1.47 kg (3.24 lbs) to 1.61 kg (3.56 lbs), depending on configuration.

Analysis of Technical Specifications: The ThinkPad P14s Gen 1 is designed as a compact mobile workstation, offering a balance of power and portability. The availability of both Intel and AMD processor options provides flexibility, with Intel models featuring discrete NVIDIA Quadro graphics for professional applications like CAD, and AMD models leveraging powerful integrated Radeon graphics. The memory is expandable up to 48GB, combining soldered RAM with a SO-DIMM slot, which is a common approach for thin and light workstations. Storage options are robust with high-speed PCIe NVMe SSDs. The display options cater to various professional needs, from standard FHD to high-resolution 4K UHD with color calibration and privacy features. The extensive array of ports ensures broad connectivity and peripheral support, including Thunderbolt 3 on Intel models. The dimensions and weight reinforce its mobile workstation classification, making it suitable for users who require performance on the go. The inclusion of ISV certifications further validates its suitability for professional software.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: The Lenovo ThinkPad P14s Gen 1 is the specific model version.
• OS Support: Officially supports Windows 10 Pro, Windows 10 Home, Ubuntu Linux LTS, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux. It may also support Windows 11.
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly defined for the product line. PSREF documents were last updated in May 2022 for Intel and January 2024 for AMD, suggesting active support information was available up to these dates.
• Localization: Available globally, implying support for various regional keyboard layouts and power adapters.
• Available Drivers: Drivers are provided by Lenovo through their support website, specific to the operating system and hardware configuration.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: The ThinkPad P14s Gen 1 demonstrates strong compatibility with major operating systems, including professional Linux distributions, which is crucial for its target audience of engineers and designers. Lenovo's commitment to providing drivers and support for its ThinkPad line is generally good, ensuring long-term usability. The availability of various display and processor configurations indicates broad compatibility with different software and workflows. While explicit end-of-support dates are not publicly detailed, the regular updates to product specification references suggest ongoing support during its active sales period. The military-grade testing also implies a robust design intended for longevity and reliability.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • Discrete Trusted Platform Module (dTPM 2.0) and Firmware TPM 2.0 (integrated in SoC).
  • ThinkShutter camera cover for privacy.
  • Optional IR camera for Windows Hello facial recognition.
  • Optional Touch-style Fingerprint Reader with match-on-chip technology.
  • BIOS Security: Power-on password, Supervisor password.
  • Kensington Security Slot for physical security.
  • Fast Identity Online (FIDO) authentication capabilities.
  • Optional Smart Card Reader.
• Known Vulnerabilities: Not explicitly detailed in the provided information.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable.
• Certifications:
  • MIL-STD-810G military testing for durability.
  • EPEAT Gold, Energy Star 8.0 for environmental certifications.
  • ISV certifications for professional software compatibility.
• Encryption Support: Discrete TPM 2.0 encrypts business-critical data.
• Authentication Methods: Fingerprint reader, IR camera for Windows Hello, traditional passwords, and Smart Card Reader (optional).
• General Recommendations: Lenovo emphasizes the "ThinkShield" suite of security features, recommending the P14s Gen 1 for its comprehensive protection.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating: The Lenovo ThinkPad P14s Gen 1 offers a robust suite of security features, typical of an enterprise-grade mobile workstation. The presence of both discrete and firmware TPM 2.0 ensures strong hardware-level encryption and security. Biometric authentication options like fingerprint and IR facial recognition, combined with the physical ThinkShutter and Kensington lock slot, provide multiple layers of protection against unauthorized access and privacy breaches. Military-grade testing further underscores its resilience in challenging environments. The comprehensive security measures make it a reliable choice for handling sensitive data and operating in secure corporate environments.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • MobileMark 2014: Up to 15.1 hours battery life.
  • MobileMark 2018: Up to 10.96 hours battery life (Intel), 10.5 hours (AMD).
  • Passmark, Cinebench R15/R20, 3DMark, PCMark 10, Crystal Disk Mark, Geekbench, and Spec ViewPerf benchmarks are typically performed, with results varying by configuration.
• Real-world Performance Metrics:
  • Designed for fast and responsive performance, especially for data computing and video rendering.
  • The NVIDIA Quadro P520 graphics are suitable for professional applications like CAD.
  • AMD Ryzen PRO processors can offer significantly faster multi-core performance compared to Intel U-series CPUs in some scenarios.
• Power Consumption:
  • Equipped with an integrated 50Wh or 51Wh Li-Polymer battery.
  • Supports Rapid Charge, achieving up to 80% battery life in one hour with a 65W USB-C AC adapter.
• Carbon Footprint: Not explicitly detailed in the provided information.
• Comparison with Similar Assets:
  • Often compared to the HP ZBook Firefly 14 G7.
  • Shares the same chassis and design as the Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 1, with the key difference being the inclusion of an ISV-certified Quadro GPU in the P14s.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status: The ThinkPad P14s Gen 1 is positioned as a capable mobile workstation, particularly for entry-level professional tasks such as CAD and engineering applications. Its performance varies between the Intel and AMD configurations, with the Intel models offering discrete NVIDIA Quadro graphics for specialized workloads and the AMD models excelling in multi-core CPU performance. While some user feedback suggests it might "lag a little" or that the Quadro P520's performance can be limited, it generally delivers on its promise of being a lightweight yet powerful device for mobile professionals. Battery life is competitive, offering all-day productivity with rapid charging capabilities. The design, shared with the T14, indicates a focus on reliability and a proven form factor.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback highlight the Lenovo ThinkPad P14s Gen 1 as a solid choice for professionals needing a portable workstation.

• Strengths:
  • Portability: Praised for being a lightweight and compact 14-inch mobile workstation, making it ideal for users on the go.
  • Professional Graphics: The inclusion of NVIDIA Quadro P520 graphics (in Intel models) is a significant advantage for engineers, students, and designers working with professional applications like CAD.
  • Build Quality: Users appreciate the sturdy and durable ThinkPad chassis, which has undergone MIL-STD-810G military testing.
  • Keyboard: The spill-resistant keyboard with optional backlighting and a comfortable typing experience is a recurring positive point.
  • Battery Life: Offers good all-day battery life, with up to 15.1 hours on MobileMark 2014, and supports rapid charging.
  • Connectivity: The wide array of ports, including Thunderbolt 3 (on Intel models), USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, Ethernet, and a microSD card reader, is well-received.
• Weaknesses:
  • Performance Limitations: Some users note that the performance of the Quadro P520, while professional, can be limited, especially in demanding scenarios, and that the system might "lag a little" in certain benchmarks.
  • Heat Development: The Intel variant has been noted for high heat development under load.
  • Display Brightness: In some configurations, the actual screen brightness might not reach the advertised values.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Highly mobile power users, including students, engineers, and designers.
  • Applications requiring ISV-certified professional graphics, such as CAD software.
  • Professionals who need a balance between power and mobility.

Summary

The Lenovo ThinkPad P14s Gen 1 is a compact and lightweight mobile workstation designed for professionals and students requiring performance on the go. It offers a choice between 10th Gen Intel Core processors with discrete NVIDIA Quadro P520 graphics or AMD Ryzen PRO 4000 series processors with integrated Radeon graphics, catering to diverse professional workloads like CAD and data processing. The device supports up to 48GB of DDR4 RAM and up to 2TB of PCIe NVMe SSD storage, providing ample memory and high-speed storage for demanding applications. Display options range from various Full HD panels, including touch and privacy features, to a high-resolution 4K UHD display with Dolby Vision HDR and factory color calibration.

Strengths: Its primary strengths lie in its portability, robust build quality (MIL-STD-810G tested), and comprehensive security features, including dTPM 2.0, fingerprint reader, IR camera, and ThinkShutter. The extensive port selection ensures broad connectivity, and the long battery life with rapid charge support enhances its utility for mobile users.

Weaknesses: Some users have noted that the NVIDIA Quadro P520's performance might not always meet high expectations for intensive tasks, and the Intel variant can experience significant heat development. Additionally, certain display configurations may not achieve their advertised brightness levels.

Recommendations: The ThinkPad P14s Gen 1 is highly recommended for professionals, engineers, and students who require a durable, secure, and portable workstation capable of running specialized software. It is an excellent choice for CAD and other professional applications that benefit from ISV-certified graphics. Users prioritizing multi-core CPU performance might lean towards the AMD variant, while those needing discrete GPU acceleration for specific software will find the Intel/Quadro combination suitable.

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.