Lenovo ThinkPad T14 vs T14s: Which Business Laptop Reigns Supreme?

If you’re deciding between the Lenovo ThinkPad T14 vs T14s, this article breaks down their key differences in price, design, and performance to help you choose the right laptop for your needs.

Key Takeaways

• The Lenovo ThinkPad T14s offers superior build quality and portability, featuring a lightweight design and premium materials, making it ideal for business travelers.

• Performance comparison shows that the T14s, especially with AMD processors, excels in multitasking and heavy workloads, while the T14 is better for single-core tasks with its Intel options.

• The T14s boasts longer battery life and advanced features like security options and AI tools, catering to professionals who need efficiency and enhanced functionality on the go.

Price and Availability

Price is a crucial factor in choosing a laptop. As of 2025, the starting price of the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 5 base model is $1,000 / £1,000, but if you’re eyeing the Gen 6 version, be prepared to shell out a premium starting at $2,699.

Significant price differences exist between the Intel and AMD models, with Intel versions generally priced higher, while AMD models may offer more affordability in some markets. Both the ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 and T14s Gen 5, launched in April 2024, can be purchased directly from Lenovo or third-party retailers like Amazon and Best Buy, although newer releases might affect their prices.

Current market prices

Current market conditions reveal that the ThinkPad T14s (Gen 5) can be found at a discounted price of $1,398, reflecting possible promotions and discounts. Scouting for ongoing deals can significantly lower acquisition costs. Comparing prices with the T14 reveals that it might be a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing performance.

Staying updated on market trends and new models is essential as prices fluctuate. The ThinkPad T14 and T14s reflect such changes, and you may notice price adjustments to stay competitive.

Understanding these price dynamics is key to making a well-informed decision, whether you’re looking for a cost-effective solution or willing to invest money in the latest model.

Design and Build Quality

Design and build quality greatly impact user experience. The Lenovo ThinkPad T14s is crafted with a combination of carbon fiber and aluminum, giving it a more premium feel compared to the rubberized texture of the T14. This high-quality construction not only enhances aesthetics but also ensures long-lasting durability.

Both two models have passed the rigorous MIL-STD-810H durability certification, meaning they have been tested to withstand tough conditions, making them reliable companions for business travelers who expect to use a device that is expected to perform well.

Port selection

Before: Port selection is a critical factor, especially for professionals who rely on various peripherals. The ThinkPad T14 offers a comprehensive range of ports, including two USB-A ports, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, an HDMI 2.1 port, and a wired Ethernet port. This extensive port selection ensures that users have all the connectivity options they need without requiring additional adapters.

After: The ThinkPad T14 offers a comprehensive range of ports, including:

• Two USB-A ports

• Two Thunderbolt 4 ports

• A 3.5mm audio jack

• An HDMI 2.1 port

• A wired Ethernet port

This extensive port selection ensures that users have all the connectivity options they need without requiring additional adapters.

The ThinkPad T14s features a smart card reader and two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports. It also includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI port, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a nano-sim slot. However, it lacks a wired Ethernet port, which might be a deal-breaker for some users who prefer direct wired connections.

Your choice will depend on specific port requirements and the value of having a built-in Ethernet port.

Weight and dimensions

Portability is a key consideration for business professionals on the go. The Lenovo ThinkPad T14s is designed to be more portable, weighing approximately 1.25 kg, which is around 0.2 kg lighter than the T14. This lighter weight makes the T14s an ideal choice for users who prioritize mobility without compromising on functionality.

In terms of dimensions, the T14s measures about 2.72 pounds (1.24 kg) and is 0.02 inches thinner than its Gen 5 predecessor. The lighter and more compact T14s reduces the strain of frequent travel or carrying.

For those who need more vertical space and can handle extra weight, the T14 remains a solid choice.

Display Options

Both the T14 and T14s offer impressive display options. The T14s Gen 5 stands out with a variety of display options, including a non-touch FHD+ variant and the innovative ThinkPad Privacy Guard feature, which reduces viewing angles to protect sensitive information. The T14s display’s standout feature is its maximum brightness of 410 nits, ensuring visibility in well-lit environments.

The T14s is ideal for professionals needing accurate color reproduction, covering 96% of the sRGB color space and achieving a color accuracy average (dE value) of 0.7. This makes it suitable for color-sensitive applications like graphic design and video editing. Additionally, the T14s boasts a contrast ratio of 2100:1, offering deep blacks and bright whites for a more immersive viewing experience.

Both models offer a 2.8K OLED screen with an anti-reflective finish, 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, a 120Hz refresh rate, and DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification. Opting for the OLED display incurs an additional cost of $343 compared to the baseline FHD+ non-touch display, but the enhanced visual experience may justify the expense for those demanding top graphics quality.

Performance

Performance is critical for business laptops. The ThinkPad T14s, powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 PRO 7840U, offers competitive performance for business applications. Intel options in the T14 handle lighter workloads well, while AMD models in the T14s deliver superior overall performance, especially in multitasking.

The T14s can be equipped with up to 32GB of soldered LPDDR5X RAM, though this limits future upgrades. The T14 offers more extensive faster ram upgrade options, enhancing its long-term usability.

The T14s supports SSD configurations of up to 2TB, ensuring ample storage capacity for demanding applications. Users can choose between Intel Iris Xe Graphics or AMD Radeon Graphics in the T14s, customizing it based on performance requirements.

Intel Core Ultra vs AMD Ryzen

For high-performance multitasking, the T14s with AMD Ryzen can significantly outperform the T14 with Intel, nearly doubling performance in heavy workloads. When comparing Intel Core Ultra chips in the T14 and AMD Ryzen options in the T14s, consider the specific workloads they will handle.

AMD processor in the T14s is advantageous for users performing resource-intensive tasks like video editing and data analysis.

Single core performance

Single-core performance is crucial for tasks requiring quick processing of lighter workloads in everyday business applications. The intel version of the T14 excels in single-core performance, making it ideal for basic office work scenarios.

Everyday business tasks like word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations benefit from the enhanced single-core capabilities of the Intel processors in the T14. Choosing a laptop based on single-core performance can improve efficiency in daily tasks, with the T14 Intel variant standing out.

Battery Life and Power Consumption

Battery life and power consumption are critical for business professionals needing their laptops to last through long workdays. Under typical usage, the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s consumes less power than the T14, making it more energy-efficient.

The T14s can achieve over 21 hours of battery life under typical use, ensuring it lasts through the longest workdays without needing a recharge.

Larger battery advantage

The ThinkPad T14s features a 57 watt-hour battery, approximately 14% larger than the 50 watt-hour battery found in the T14. This larger battery capacity translates to longer battery life, allowing the T14s to last up to 12 hours on a single charge.

This significant increase in battery power can greatly enhance productivity, especially when working remotely or traveling. The T14s’s larger battery and lower power consumption provide a compelling advantage for users prioritizing battery life and more power.

Additional Features

Additional features beyond the core specs can significantly enhance the user experience. The T14s’s keyboard, with its ergonomic design, provides a comfortable typing experience ideal for extended use. Security features like the smart card reader add an extra layer of protection, crucial for professionals handling sensitive information.

The T14s offers connectivity options including Wi-Fi 7, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and optional 5G capability, ensuring users stay connected.

AI and software tools

The ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 offers unique access to Copilot+ and local AI acceleration, enhancing its functionality for business applications. While the T14 Gen 5 includes essential AI capabilities like Windows Studio Effects, it doesn’t match the advanced AI tools in the T14s, which are slightly faster.

Both models integrate advanced AI tools and software enhancements to improve productivity and user experience. While the T14s benefits from cutting-edge AI tools, the T14 remains a strong contender with practical AI enhancements.

Which One Should You Buy?

Deciding between the ThinkPad T14 and T14s depends on your specific needs and preferences. The ThinkPad T14 is ideal for those needing a budget-friendly option with reliable connectivity, thanks to its lower cost and wired Ethernet connection.

The Lenovo ThinkPad T14s stands out for its speed, lightweight design, stylish appearance, excellent performance, and comfortable keyboard, ideal for professionals prioritizing mobility and aesthetics. However, it is worth noting that the T14s’s lack of upgradeability compared to prior models may limit its long-term usability for some.

For those prioritizing single-core performance for everyday business applications, the T14 intel model variant is a compelling choice.

Where to Buy Lenovo ThinkPad T14 and T14S in Singapore

Looking for a reliable source to purchase the Lenovo ThinkPad T14 or T14s? Get them from an authorised local reseller for peace of mind, full warranty, and expert support.

Visit SourceIT to request a quote for corporate special pricing. Otherwise, you may check out directly from the following product links:

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5:

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 U5-125U/16GB/512GB SSD (21MMSF5U00)

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 U7-155U/16GB/1TB SSD (21ML009SSG)

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 U7-155U/32GB/1TB SSD (21ML0061SG)

Lenovo ThinkPad T14S Gen 5:

Lenovo ThinkPad T14S Gen 5 U5-125U/16GB/512GB SSD (21LS004LSG)

Lenovo ThinkPad T14S Gen 5 U7-155U/16GB/1TB SSD (21LSCTO1WW)

Lenovo ThinkPad T14S Gen 5 U7-155U/32GB/1TB SSD (21LSCTO1WW)

Summary

In summary, both the Lenovo ThinkPad T14 and T14s offer impressive features and performance tailored to business professionals. The T14 is a cost-effective, reliable choice with extensive connectivity options, while the T14s excels in design, portability, and advanced features. Ultimately, your choice should be guided by your specific needs, whether it’s budget constraints, performance requirements, or the need for a lightweight, stylish device. Choose wisely, and you’ll find a trusty companion in your business endeavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting price of the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 5?

The starting price of the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 5 base model is $1,000.

How does the battery life of the T14s compare to the T14?

The Lenovo ThinkPad T14s outperforms the T14 with over 21 hours of battery life under typical use, making it a more energy-efficient choice.

What are the key differences in port selection between the T14 and T14s?

The key differences in port selection are that the T14 offers a wired Ethernet port while the T14s includes a smart card reader and a nano-sim slot but lacks the wired Ethernet port. Therefore, if wired connectivity is essential, the T14 is preferable.

Is the T14s suitable for color-sensitive applications?

The T14s is ideal for color-sensitive applications, covering 96% of the sRGB color space and achieving an impressive color accuracy average (dE value) of 0.7.

Does the T14s support AI tools and software enhancements?

Yes, the ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 supports AI tools like Copilot+ and features local AI acceleration, significantly enhancing its capabilities for business applications.