Lenovo ThinkPad T495s

Technical Specifications

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 3500U or Ryzen 7 Pro 3700U (2nd Gen AMD Ryzen Pro CPU)
• Graphics: Integrated AMD Radeon Vega 8 or Vega 10 Graphics
• RAM: 8GB or 16GB DDR4 2400MHz, soldered to systemboard (not upgradable)
• Storage: PCIe NVMe SSD, up to 1TB (M.2 2280)
• Display: 14.0-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS, anti-glare, with options for 250 nits, 300 nits touchscreen, 400 nits Low Power, or 400 nits PrivacyGuard
• Ports:
  • 2x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C (supports data transfer, Power Delivery, DisplayPort 1.4)
  • 1x USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Always On)
  • 1x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A
  • 1x HDMI 2.0
  • 1x Ethernet extension connector (requires adapter)
  • 1x Headphone/microphone combo jack (3.5mm)
  • Optional Smart card reader
  • Optional microSD card slot (WLAN models) or Nano-SIM + microSD card slot (WWAN models)
  • Side docking connector
• Connectivity: Intel Wireless-AC 9260 (802.11ac 2x2) & Bluetooth 5.1 (hardware ready for BT 5.2), Optional WWAN (4G LTE CAT9)
• Camera: 720p HD with ThinkShutter privacy cover, optional IR camera
• Battery: 57Wh, up to 14 hours, with Rapid Charge technology
• Dimensions: 12.95" x 8.9" x 0.6" / 329 x 225.8 x 16.1 mm
• Weight: Starting at 2.81 lbs (1.27 kg)

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The Lenovo ThinkPad T495s is a slim and lightweight business laptop, prioritizing portability and robust build quality. Its core strength lies in its AMD Ryzen Pro processors, offering a balance of CPU frequency and integrated GPU performance with Radeon Vega graphics. The memory is soldered, limiting future upgrades, with configurations available in 8GB or 16GB DDR4 2400MHz. While the 16GB version supports dual-channel memory, the 8GB version may be single-channel, potentially bottlenecking the AMD APU's performance. Storage is ample with PCIe NVMe SSDs up to 1TB, providing fast data access. The 14-inch FHD IPS display offers anti-glare properties and various brightness options, including a 400-nit Low Power panel and a PrivacyGuard option for enhanced security. Connectivity is comprehensive, featuring multiple USB-C and USB-A ports, HDMI 2.0, and optional WWAN, though it lacks Thunderbolt 3 found in its Intel counterparts. The inclusion of an Ethernet extension connector requires an adapter for wired network access. The 57Wh battery provides good all-day endurance with rapid-charging capabilities. The chassis is MIL-SPEC tested for durability.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Windows 10 Pro 64-bit, Windows 10 Home 64-bit, Windows 11 (64-bit), Windows 8.1 (64-bit), and Linux (Ubuntu Linux)
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly stated, but drivers and support are available through Lenovo's official support pages.
• Available Drivers: Comprehensive drivers for Audio, BIOS/UEFI, Bluetooth, Camera, Card Reader, Display, Ethernet, Fingerprint Reader, Mouse/Touchpad/Keyboard, Power Management, Security, Storage, and Wireless LAN/WAN are available from Lenovo's support website.
• Compatibility: Supports up to 3 independent displays via native display and 2 external monitors (HDMI up to 4096x2160@24Hz, USB-C up to 4096x2160@60Hz). FreeSync technology is supported for stutter-free visuals. Compatible with side docking solutions.

Analysis of Support & Compatibility Status

The ThinkPad T495s offers broad operating system compatibility, supporting various Windows versions including Windows 10 and 11, as well as Linux distributions. Lenovo provides a robust support ecosystem with readily available drivers and firmware updates through its support website and the Lenovo Vantage software. This ensures the asset remains functional and optimized over time. The laptop's ability to support multiple external displays enhances productivity for professional users. The inclusion of FreeSync technology is a notable benefit for users who might engage in light gaming or require smoother visual experiences. Compatibility with mechanical docking solutions further integrates it into enterprise environments. While an explicit "end of support" date is not provided, Lenovo's commitment to driver updates and enterprise-grade support suggests a reasonable lifecycle for a business-class device.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • Discrete TPM 2.0 (TCG Certified)
  • dTPM 2.0
  • Smart card reader (optional)
  • Touch style match-on-chip fingerprint reader (optional)
  • ThinkShutter physical webcam privacy cover
  • Optional IR camera for Windows Hello biometric login
  • Optional PrivacyGuard display filter to prevent "shoulder surfing"
  • Power-on password, hard disk password, supervisor password
  • Security keyhole (Kensington lock slot)
  • AMD Ryzen Pro CPUs offer additional security and administrative functions
  • FIDO (Fast Online Identity) authentication capabilities
• Vulnerabilities: No specific widespread vulnerabilities are identified in the provided data.
• Recommendations:
  • Utilize all available hardware security features like dTPM, fingerprint reader, and ThinkShutter.
  • Enable PrivacyGuard display for sensitive work in public spaces.
  • Keep BIOS/UEFI and drivers updated via Lenovo Vantage and official support channels.
  • Implement strong password policies for power-on, hard disk, and supervisor access.

Analysis on the Security Status

The Lenovo ThinkPad T495s boasts a comprehensive suite of security features, making it well-suited for enterprise environments. The presence of a discrete TPM 2.0 chip ensures hardware-level encryption and secure boot capabilities. Biometric authentication options, including an optional touch fingerprint reader and IR camera for Windows Hello, provide convenient and strong login security. The ThinkShutter physical webcam cover addresses privacy concerns by physically blocking the camera when not in use. For visual privacy, the optional PrivacyGuard display actively prevents "shoulder surfing," a critical feature for professionals handling sensitive information in public. The AMD Ryzen Pro processors themselves integrate enhanced security and administrative functions, comparable to Intel's vPro technology. Standard ThinkPad security features like power-on, hard disk, and supervisor passwords, along with a Kensington lock slot, further protect the device from unauthorized access and physical theft. No specific vulnerabilities are highlighted, suggesting a generally secure platform, especially when kept updated.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Processor Performance:
  • AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 3500U: Geekbench 5 CPU scores of 887 (single-core) and 2958 (multi-core).
  • AMD Ryzen 7 Pro 3700U: Fastest model, but performance is limited by TDP configuration (25W for minutes, then 18W).
• Graphics Performance:
  • Integrated AMD Radeon Vega 8 Graphics: Geekbench 5 Compute score of 9980. Cinebench R15 score of 35.4fps.
  • Integrated AMD Radeon Vega 10 Graphics: Significantly more graphics power than Intel UHD Graphics 620.
• Storage Performance: SSD read speeds of 3Gbps and write speeds of 1.6Gbps.
• Real-world Performance Metrics:
  • Sufficient for office software, email, and web browsing.
  • Handles multiple open browser windows and processes spreadsheets quickly.
  • Capable of light gaming (e.g., Euro Truck Simulator 2, Cities Skylines).
  • Good for C++ and HTML development, and local compiling.
  • Battery life: Up to 14 hours (MobileMark 2014: 16.4 hours). Wi-Fi test (150 nits) yields over 11 hours. Real-world usage around 6-7 hours with Wi-Fi and streaming.
• Comparison with Similar Devices:
  • Generally more affordable than Intel-based counterparts like the T490s.
  • Offers better integrated graphics performance compared to Intel UHD Graphics 620 in the T490s.
  • CPU performance of Ryzen 7 Pro 3700U is limited by TDP compared to consumer Ryzen 7 3700U in other models.
  • Battery life is comparable to or slightly better than the Intel T490s in some tests.

Analysis of the Performance Status

The ThinkPad T495s, powered by AMD Ryzen Pro processors and integrated Radeon Vega graphics, delivers solid performance for typical business and productivity tasks. While not a powerhouse for raw computing horsepower, the Ryzen 5 Pro 3500U and Ryzen 7 Pro 3700U provide sufficient CPU performance for office applications, web browsing, and even some development work. The integrated Radeon Vega graphics are a significant advantage over Intel's integrated graphics, offering better performance for tasks requiring more graphical power, including light gaming. However, the Ryzen 7 Pro 3700U's full potential can be limited by thermal design power (TDP) configurations, which can throttle performance under sustained heavy loads. The SSD performance is strong, with fast read and write speeds contributing to a responsive user experience. Battery life is a notable strength, offering all-day usage and rapid-charging capabilities, often outperforming its Intel counterpart in endurance tests. Overall, the T495s provides a compelling performance package, especially considering its affordability relative to Intel-based alternatives, with a strong emphasis on integrated graphics capabilities.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews for the Lenovo ThinkPad T495s generally highlight its strong points in performance, portability, and battery life. Users praise its high-quality build, excellent keyboard, trackpad, and TrackPoint. The display, especially the 400-nit Low Power IPS panel, receives positive feedback for being bright, vibrant, and comfortable to use due to its matte finish. Many find it fast and reliable for business use, handling multiple applications and spreadsheets efficiently. The AMD Ryzen Pro processors are appreciated for their performance, with some users noting the integrated Vega graphics' capability for light gaming. The laptop's slim and light design is frequently mentioned as a significant advantage for portability.

However, some common criticisms emerge. A recurring issue is fan noise, with some users finding it annoying or having a high-frequency sound, although BIOS updates have reportedly improved this for some. The soldered RAM, with no upgrade slots, is a point of concern for users desiring future memory expansion. The maximum display resolution being limited to Full HD is a disappointment for those accustomed to higher-resolution options available on some Intel models. The lack of Thunderbolt 3 support is also noted as a drawback compared to its Intel equivalent, the T490s. Despite these points, the overall sentiment is positive, with many recommending the product for its value and functionality.

Vulnerabilities

• CVE-2020-8334
  Published: 2020-06-09 - Updated: 2021-07-21 - CVSS: 6.8 - EPSS: 0.06%
  The BIOS tamper detection mechanism was not triggered in Lenovo ThinkPad T495s, X395, T495, A485, A285, A475, A275 which may allow for unauthorized access.
• CVE-2020-8323
  Published: 2020-06-09 - Updated: 2020-06-22 - CVSS: 6.7 - EPSS: 0.05%
  A potential vulnerability in the SMI callback function used in the Legacy SD driver in some Lenovo ThinkPad, ThinkStation, and Lenovo Notebook models may allow arbitrary code execution.
• CVE-2020-8320
  Published: 2020-06-09 - Updated: 2020-06-17 - CVSS: 6.8 - EPSS: 0.05%
  An internal shell was included in BIOS image in some ThinkPad models that could allow escalation of privilege.
• CVE-2020-8335
  Published: 2020-09-01 - Updated: 2020-09-10 - CVSS: 6.8 - EPSS: 0.07%
  The BIOS tamper detection mechanism was not triggered in Lenovo ThinkPad A285, BIOS versions up to r0xuj70w; A485, BIOS versions up to r0wuj65w; T495 BIOS versions up to r12uj55w; T495s/X395, BIOS versions up to r13uj47w, while the emergency-reset button is pressed which may allow for unauthorized access.

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Summary

The Lenovo ThinkPad T495s stands out as a robust and portable business laptop, effectively leveraging AMD's Ryzen Pro processors and integrated Radeon Vega graphics. Its strengths include a durable, MIL-SPEC tested chassis, excellent input devices, and a comprehensive suite of enterprise-grade security features such as dTPM 2.0, optional biometric authentication, ThinkShutter, and PrivacyGuard display options. Performance is well-suited for daily productivity, light content creation, and even some casual gaming, with the integrated AMD graphics offering a notable advantage over Intel's counterparts. Battery life is impressive, providing all-day endurance and rapid-charging capabilities. The laptop offers broad compatibility with various operating systems and benefits from strong driver support from Lenovo.

However, the T495s has some limitations. The RAM is soldered and not upgradable, meaning users must choose their memory configuration carefully at purchase. While the display quality is good, the absence of higher-resolution options found in some competing models is a drawback for certain users. Fan noise can be an issue for some, although software updates have aimed to mitigate this. The lack of Thunderbolt 3, a feature present in its Intel sibling, might be a consideration for users relying on high-bandwidth external peripherals.

In conclusion, the ThinkPad T495s is an excellent choice for business professionals seeking a secure, durable, and portable laptop with strong integrated graphics performance and long battery life at a competitive price point. It is particularly recommended for users who prioritize value and integrated graphics over raw CPU power or Thunderbolt connectivity. For those needing memory upgradability or higher display resolutions, alternative models might be more 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.