Alright, let’s dive into the Lenovo ThinkPad T470s. You’re looking for a deep dive, over 2500 words, no pictures needed, all for that sweet SEO juice to climb the Google ladder. And you want it in a casual, easy-to-read style, ending with a conclusion and five unique FAQs. Plus, you want those list items jazzed up as either `
` or `
` tags. Got it! Here we go:
Lenovo ThinkPad T470s: Still a Solid Workhorse in Today’s World?
Lenovo ThinkPad T470s: Still a Solid Workhorse in Today’s World?
The Lenovo ThinkPad. Just the name conjures up images of serious business folks, clacking away on keyboards in airports or boardrooms. For years, they’ve been the go-to laptop for professionals who need something reliable, durable, and just plain works. And within the ThinkPad family, the “s” models often strike a sweet spot – thinner and lighter than the standard T series, but still packing a punch. So, where does the ThinkPad T470s stand today? Even though it’s not the newest kid on the block anymore, it still holds a certain appeal, especially if you’re after a dependable machine without breaking the bank.
A Look Back at What Made the T470s Special
When the T470s first hit the scene, it was praised for a few key things. It managed to be relatively thin and light for a business laptop without sacrificing that legendary ThinkPad robustness. You could chuck it in your bag and not feel like you were lugging around a brick.
The Keyboard: Still a Typing Champion?
Let’s be honest, for many ThinkPad users, the keyboard is the main event. And the T470s generally lives up to the hype. You get that classic ThinkPad key travel, meaning there’s a satisfying depth when you press a key. This makes for a comfortable and accurate typing experience, especially during those marathon writing sessions you’re planning. The keys have a nice tactile feedback too, so you know when you’ve actually hit a key. While personal preference always plays a role, the T470s keyboard is often cited as one of the better ones out there.
Performance That Gets the Job Done
Under the hood, the T470s came with various Intel Core processors, typically ranging from i5 to i7. For everyday tasks like browsing, email, document editing, and even some more demanding work, these processors are generally up to the task. Paired with a decent amount of RAM (which could often be upgraded), the T470s could handle multitasking without too much fuss. Of course, it’s not a gaming powerhouse or a workstation for heavy video editing, but for productivity, it’s usually got enough grunt.
Display Options: Finding Your Sweet Spot
The T470s typically offered a few display options, usually a 14-inch screen with different resolutions. While it might not have the super-slim bezels of some modern laptops, the screen is generally crisp and clear, making it comfortable for long hours of work. Some configurations even came with IPS panels, which offer better viewing angles and color accuracy. Depending on the specific model you’re looking at, the display quality can vary, so it’s worth checking the specs if this is a big priority for you.
Ports Galore: Connectivity Without Dongle Drama
In a world where some laptops are ditching ports left and right, the T470s offers a refreshing amount of connectivity. You’ll typically find USB-A ports, USB-C ports, an HDMI port, an SD card reader, and an Ethernet port. This means you can usually plug in your peripherals and connect to networks without needing a bag full of dongles. For many professionals, this is a huge plus.
Battery Life: Enough to Get You Through?
Battery life on the T470s was generally considered pretty good for its class. Depending on your usage and the specific configuration, you could often expect to get a solid few hours of work done on a single charge. Some models even came with the Power Bridge technology, which allows you to hot-swap batteries without shutting down the laptop – a real lifesaver for those who are constantly on the move.
Build Quality and Durability: The ThinkPad Legacy
This is where ThinkPads really shine, and the T470s is no exception. It’s built to be tough. The materials used feel solid, and it can generally withstand the bumps and knocks of daily use. The reinforced hinges and spill-resistant keyboard add to that feeling of durability. If you need a laptop that can take a bit of a beating, the T470s is definitely worth considering.
Security Features: Protecting Your Precious Data
Being a business-focused laptop, the T470s often came with a range of security features. This could include a fingerprint reader for biometric login, a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip for hardware-based encryption, and various software security options. These features are crucial for keeping sensitive data safe.
Upgradability and Maintenance: A Plus for Longevity
Unlike some ultra-thin laptops where everything is soldered to the board, the T470s often offers some level of upgradability. You might be able to upgrade the RAM or the storage, which can extend the life of the laptop and improve its performance down the line. This also makes it potentially easier and cheaper to maintain.
The T470s in Today’s Market: Still Relevant?
So, in 2025, is a used Lenovo ThinkPad T470s still a viable option? For many people, the answer is a definite yes. While it might not have the latest and greatest processors or the most cutting-edge design, it offers a fantastic balance of performance, durability, a great keyboard, and a decent array of ports at a potentially very attractive price point on the second-hand market.
If you’re looking for a reliable workhorse for writing those long articles, browsing, email, and general productivity, and you don’t need the absolute fastest performance for demanding tasks like video editing or high-end gaming, the T470s can be a smart choice. Its excellent keyboard is a major plus for writers, and its robust build quality means it should last. Plus, the upgradability options can give it an extra lease on life.
However, it’s worth keeping in mind that it’s an older model. The battery life might not be as stellar as newer laptops, and the screen bezels will look a bit thicker compared to modern designs. The processor, while capable, won’t be as fast as the latest generations.
Who is the T470s good for in 2025?
The T470s could be a great fit for:
Students who need a reliable and durable laptop for note-taking and assignments.
Conclusion
The Lenovo ThinkPad T470s, while not the newest laptop on the block, remains a compelling option for those seeking a dependable and comfortable work machine, especially on the used market. Its legendary keyboard, robust build quality, and decent performance for everyday tasks make it a solid choice for writers, students, and professionals alike. While it might lack some of the sleekness and cutting-edge features of modern laptops, its core strengths in usability and durability ensure it still holds its own in 2025. If you prioritize function over the latest trends and value a fantastic typing experience, the T470s is definitely worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can the RAM on a Lenovo ThinkPad T470s be upgraded?
In many configurations, yes, the RAM on the Lenovo ThinkPad T470s can be upgraded. However, it’s crucial to check the specific model you’re considering, as some might have soldered RAM. Generally, there are usually one or two SODIMM slots available for upgrades.
Does the Lenovo ThinkPad T470s have a good keyboard for long writing sessions?
Absolutely! The ThinkPad keyboards are renowned for their comfortable typing experience, and the T470s is no exception. It typically offers good key travel and tactile feedback, which can significantly reduce fatigue during extended writing periods.
What operating systems are compatible with the Lenovo ThinkPad T470s?
The Lenovo ThinkPad T470s was originally shipped with Windows 10. However, it is also compatible with various Linux distributions. You might need to check driver availability for specific Linux versions.
Does the Lenovo ThinkPad T470s have a webcam?
Yes, the Lenovo ThinkPad T470s typically comes equipped with a built-in webcam, which is suitable for video conferencing and online meetings. The quality might vary depending on the specific configuration.
Is the Lenovo ThinkPad T470s suitable for gaming or video editing?
While the Lenovo ThinkPad T470s can handle basic multimedia tasks, it’s generally not recommended for serious gaming or professional video editing. Its integrated graphics (or sometimes a lower-end dedicated GPU in some configurations) and the age of the processors mean it will likely struggle with demanding games and video editing software. It’s primarily designed for productivity and business tasks.
