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Review Lenovo ThinkPad T530 2429-5XG Notebook

Old acquaintance? The latest member of the ThinkPad T Series, the T530, features one major change from its ThinkPad heritage – a chiclet-style keyboard. Aside from some hardware updates and the implementation of an Intel Ivy Bridge processor, the familiar ThinkPad style and quality have been maintained.

At first glance, the ThinkPad T530 shows no apparent change from its predecessor. The case is very similar and its massive hinges and display latch evoke a certain air of familiarity. The traditional black matte finish is also present and defies scratches and fingerprints. Opening the notebook, however, leads to a surprise. The ThinkPad T530 now features a chiclet-style keyboard and special keys, such as the Enter key, are now black instead of blue. Only the red TrackPoint and corresponding buttons remind the user of the ThinkPad tradition.

Apart from the keyboard, the only significant modifications are the internal components. For the T530, Lenovo continues to use familiar ThinkPad features. The base model is available for just under 1000 Euro ($1225 USD). This configuration includes a second-generation Sandy Bridge Core i3 processor, has no dedicated graphics card, and has a 1366x768 WXGA display. The most expensive configuration that includes a Core i7-3720QM processor, Nvidia NVS 5400M graphics card, and a bright Full HD display costs 2500 Euro ($3060 USD). This price quickly inflates to 3700 Euro ($4525 USD) when adding various pre-installed software, an extended warranty, and an additional battery.

Competing notebooks include the HP EliteBook 8570p and Dell Latitude E6530. As with the Lenovo ThinkPad T530, both balance performance and mobility while maintaining a business-oriented focus. The EliteBook can also be equipped with a more powerful quad-core Core i7-3720QM but uses the AMD Radeon HD 7570M. The Radeon HD 7570M is more or less comparable to the Nvidia NVS 5400M in terms of performance. The Dell Latitude uses the weaker Nvidia NVS 5200M.

Our test sample features the Intel's Core i7-3520M dual-core processorNvidia NVS 5400M dedicated graphics card, 1 GB memory, and a 1600x900 HD+ screen. The price for this configuration is 1500 Euro ($1830 USD).

Case

Lenovo ThinkPad T530
Lenovo ThinkPad T530

The ThinkPad T530 uses the tried and true traditional ThinkPad case. The only observed differences are the side-mounted ports which have changed a bit. Lenovo still uses a combination of black matte plastic and magnesium as materials for the case. On the other hand, both competing notebooks from Dell and HP use metal cases. The preferred surface material is a matter of personal taste.

In terms of stability, the T530 is comparable to its predecessor, the Lenovo ThinkPad T520. Once again, the ThinkPad uses a massive display lid, a latch to secure the display, and the rigid base unit. The wrist rest and area above the optical drive can be marginally depressed but are still significantly superior to most other notebooks. The hinges have a firm grip on the display lid and keep the screen in position. The maximum 180o opening angle is once again present.

Our major point of complaint for the ThinkPad T530 is the battery latch which we found to be worse than in the previous T520. The 9-cell battery protrudes from the rear end, making it a logical place to hold the ThinkPad. However, in the ThinkPad T530, the battery wobbles a bit, giving one the impression that it may easily detach from the notebook. The battery removal latch also feels a bit loose and does not provide clear feedback about when the battery is secured.

Connectivity

The ThinkPad T530 shows a few slight changes in connectivity. As with the T520, the front is free of ports. The power port and a single powered USB 2.0 port are located on the rear. The ThinkPad T530 now lacks a modem port.

The right side is identical to the previous ThinkPad T520. The ExpressCard34 slot and 4-in-1 card reader for SD, SDHC, SDXC, and MMC formats are still found toward the front. A combination audio jack follows. The Gigabit LAN port is located at the rear end of the right side. An ultra-bay slot for an optical drive or second battery takes up the most space and is found between the LAN port and the audio jack. A DVD writer comes standard in the ultra-bay and those who want an additional battery or Blu-ray drive will need to buy these separately.

On the left side, a number of changes have been made and everything has been updated. The eSATA/USB combination port has been replaced by a standard USB 2.0 port. In addition, the two USB ports carried over from the T520 now support the USB 3.0 specification. The DisplayPort connector has been reduced to a mini DisplayPort, a change that is illogical in light of the available space for connectors. The VGA connector and its securing screw holes as well as the four-pin FireWire 400 port remain unmoved from their previous positions.

For right-handed users, only the audio cable could potentially get in the way of an external mouse as almost all remaining cables are connected on the left side. As a result, left-handed users may find the Dell Latitude E6530 more comfortable as that notebook has few ports on front left side. A corresponding docking station may prove helpful when multiple ports are used extensively.

Front: No interfaces
Front: No interfaces
Left: Mini display port, VGA, 2x USB 3.0, USB 2.0, FireWire 400
Left: Mini display port, VGA, 2x USB 3.0, USB 2.0, FireWire 400
Rear: Powered USB 2.0, AC-in
Rear: Powered USB 2.0, AC-in
Right: ExpressCard34, card reader (SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC), audio, ultra-bay, Gigabit LAN
Right: ExpressCard34, card reader (SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC), audio, ultra-bay, Gigabit LAN

Communication

While the modem connector on the rear has been removed, it remains easy to connect to the Internet and other devices easily using the included wireless technologies. An optional Ericsson H5321gw HSPA+ (Evolved High-Speed Packet Access) card is available for an additional 80 Euro ($99 USD). The Intel 82579LM Gigabit Ethernet controller allows the ThinkPad T530 to connect to a wired LAN. Bluetooth 4.0 is also available.

For the Wi-Fi card, the buyer can select one of three options. The standard option is Lenovo’s ThinkPad b/g/n adapter that supports the IEEE 802.11b/g/n protocols. The second option costs 15 Euro ($19 USD) and equips the ThinkPad T530 with the Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 and two antennae. The third option is the Intel Centrino Ultimate-N 6300 which has three antennae and adds a 40 Euro ($49 USD) premium.

Security

The ThinkPad T530 includes typical security features. A BIOS password, Trusted Platform Module (TPM), and fingerprint reader protect against data theft and are standard features for most business notebooks.

Docking station
Docking station

Accessories

The ThinkPad T530 does not include any accessories and only comes with the power supply and battery. Nonetheless, a wide array of optional accessories is available from Lenovo and we will describe them here.

Virtually all parts from the previous T520 series are compatible with the new ThinkPad T530 due to the similar case. Other USB 3.0 accessories may be required. The ThinkPad T530 can be connected to two different docking stations via the built-in docking port on the underside. The Series 3 port replicator has USB 3.0 support and is available for 110 Euro ($135 USD). This docking station does not add many additional ports and only offers three USB 2.0 ports, one USB 3.0 port, a VGA port, and a Gigabit LAN port for desktop use. The Series 3 Mini Dock Plus is available as well for just under 230 Euro ($280 USD) and also has USB 3.0 support. This docking station provides the same as the port replicator as well as an additional three USB 2.0 ports, two DVI ports, two DisplayPort connectors, and two audio jacks for simultaneous headphone/speaker and microphone use.

Beyond the docking stations, a mini DisplayPort-to-VGA adapter is available. Considering the built-in VGA port on the notebook, its usefulness seems quite limited. Third-party adapters may be required for other connectors such as DVI, HDMI, and DisplayPort. While third-party adapters may not match in style, they could be considerably cheaper.

Maintenance

The ThinkPad T530 has two maintenance covers on the underside. The hard disk is underneath the first cover and the second RAM slot is found under the second. Lenovo allows the user to exchange or replace the following parts without voiding the warranty: Wi-Fi Card, WAN card, hard drive, keyboard, TrackPoint, and RAM.

Warranty

The ThinkPad T530 comes with a standard three-year carry-in warranty. This warranty can be expanded to include on-site next business day service including accidental damage protection for 200 Euro ($245 USD).

Input Devices

Keyboard

The most noticeable change in the ThinkPad T530 is the keyboard. Both the design and layout have been adjusted. In terms of design, the keyboard is now a chiclet-style interface and the keys are separated by a crosspiece. According to Lenovo’s advertising information, this style is known as “island style”. The keys of the top row and the arrow keys are flat but the space bar is convex and curved outward. All other keys are concave and curved inward. As a result, fingers tend to hit key centers accurately. The color of the keyboard has also been changed to an extent. The blue that once highlighted special keys such as the Enter key has now been replaced by a consistent black and these keys no longer stand out.

The keyboard layout has also been revised. Although the Fn key and Ctrl key remain reversed when compared to other notebooks, the right front area has been significantly modified. The Print key has replaced the context menu key which has now been completely removed. The PgUp and PgDn keys are now above the left and right arrow keys. The Esc key is now only half-sized and the Del key has been moved to the upper right corner. The Ins, End, and Pos1 keys are located beside the Del key. The Scroll Lock and Pause keys have also been removed. Unfortunately, there is still no number pad, something that would be useful for data entry.

The ThinkLight, a small LED light beside the webcam, is again available. A backlit keyboard is also optionally available. The keyboard remains splash proof.

Touchpad and TrackPoint

The Touchpad and TrackPoint have remained unmodified since the ThinkPad T510. As a result, the Touchpad is no longer standard sized but is considerably smaller than other current notebooks. While it supports multi-finger gestures, the HP EliteBook 8570p features a much larger touchpad by comparison.

Keyboard
Keyboard
FN and CRTL are swapped as usual
FN and CRTL are swapped as usual
Level function keys
Level function keys
PG keys by the arrow keys
PG keys by the arrow keys
Water outlet on the bottom
Water outlet on the bottom
Small touchpad
Small touchpad
TrackPoint
TrackPoint

Display

For the ThinkPad T530 family, one can choose between three 15.6-inch matte screens. The cheapest screen uses an HD WXGA resolution of 1366x768. The two more expensive screens offer higher 1600x900 HD+ and 1920x1080 Full HD resolutions. The latter has a higher brightness and larger reproducible color spectrum. A review of this brighter Full HD display will be included in the upcoming ThinkPad W530 review.

Our test sample uses the AU Optronics B156RW01 1600x900 HD+ screen. In the specification sheets, Lenovo specifies that this display has a screen brightness of 220 cd/m2. We measured an average brightness of 219.9 cd/m2, virtually identical to the advertised specification. The maximum measured brightness of 230 cd/m2 was found on the right. The darkest measured spot of 207 cd/m2 was found in the upper right corner. An overall illumination of 90 percent was measured and is far above average. Full brightness is available on battery power.

226
cd/m²
218
cd/m²
207
cd/m²
219
cd/m²
222
cd/m²
230
cd/m²
215
cd/m²
225
cd/m²
217
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
AU Optronics B156RW01 tested with Gossen Mavo-Monitor
Maximum: 230 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 219.9 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 90 %
Center on Battery: 222 cd/m²
Contrast: 673:1 (Black: 0.33 cd/m²)52.4% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
75.4% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
50.8% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)

We measured a very low black value of 0.33 cd/m2, better than those of most competitors. Combined with the good measured brightness, we determined a contrast ratio of 673:1. This not only reproduces saturated, vivid pictures and movies but also increases the legibility of text. The previous ThinkPad T520‘s screen had a similar contrast but the illumination was much worse and the screen itself was overall darker.

We observed that neither the sRGB nor AdobeRGB color spectrum was close to being covered. For those seeking better color reproduction, we recommend the Full HD screen that is capable of significantly more color. More about this screen can be found in the review of the ThinkPad W530.

ThinkPad T530 vs. sRGB
ThinkPad T530 vs. sRGB
ThinkPad T530 vs. AdobeRGB
ThinkPad T530 vs. AdobeRGB

The matte screen serves the ThinkPad T530 well in outdoor situations. While glare-type screens typically reflect their surroundings in bright sunlight, the T530 avoids annoying reflections. With its sufficient brightness, the T530 allows users to work well even in bright surroundings.

The ThinkPad T530 in the shade...
The ThinkPad T530 in the shade...
...and in the sun
...and in the sun

The observed viewing angles are close to the limit for the target price. Most content remains well-rendered at horizontal deviations from head-on albeit with significant brightness reduction. On the other hand, when viewing the display from below head-on, text remains legible but color distortion is significant and dark colors turn to black or dark gray. When viewing from above head-on, colors appear a bit worse and darker but the display’s contents remain recognizable.

Viewing angles: Lenovo ThinkPad T530
Viewing angles: Lenovo ThinkPad T530

Performance

The ThinkPad T530 can be configured in innumerable ways via the online Lenovo store. Merely the choice of processors is already enormous. The weakest option is the second generation Sandy Bridge Core i3-2370M. An equally clocked third generation Ivy Bridge Core i3-3110M is also an option. Three Ivy Bridge Core i5 CPUs are also options – the i5-3210Mi5-3320M, and i5-3360M. Lastly, three Ivy Bridge Core i7 CPUs are also available – the i7-3520Mi7-3610QM, and i7-3720QM. If none of these processors are sufficient for the task at hand, the ThinkPad W series allows one to choose Intel’s flagship mobile processor, the Core i7-3920XM Extreme Edition.

Depending on the choice of CPU, the ThinkPad T530 will have either the Intel HD Graphics 3000 GPU for the Sandy Bridge CPU or the Intel HD Graphics 4000 for Ivy Bridge processors. For those seeking the power of a dedicated graphics card, it is possible to include the Nvidia NVS 5400M. The NVS 5400M features 1 GB of dedicated VRAM and takes over for the HD Graphics GPU in real-time thanks to Nvidia Optimus technology.

Another configurable option is memory, which allows the buyer to select 4, 6, or 8 GB of RAM. Upgrading the memory pool to 16 GB is easily achievable by the buyer. In terms of storage devices, the buyer can choose hard drives in both 5400 and 7200 RPM (rotations per minute) speeds and with capacities of up to 500 GB. Faster solid state drives (SSDs) are available in 128, 180, and 256 GB capacities.

HWiNFO
HWiNFO
CPUZ CPU
CPUZ CPU
CPUZ Cache
CPUZ Cache
CPUZ Mainboard
CPUZ Mainboard
CPUZ RAM
CPUZ RAM
CPUZ RAM SPD
CPUZ RAM SPD
GPUZ Intel
GPUZ Intel
GPUZ NVIDIA
GPUZ NVIDIA
DPC Latency
DPC Latency
 
System Information: Lenovo ThinkPad T530 2429-5XG

Processor

Our test sample features the third generation Ivy Bridge dual-core Core i7-3520M processor, built using the 22 nm fabrication process. This processor has a base clock speed of 2.9 GHz but can reach single core Turbo Boost speeds of up to 3.6 GHz.

To test the CPU’s performance, we used the Cinebench R11.5 64-bit Multi-CPU test and rendered a 3D scene. Our ThinkPad T530 reached 3.36 points as the Core i7-3520M bridges the gap between the weaker dual-core Core i7-2640M’s 3.15 points and the much stronger quad-core Core i7-2630QM‘s 4.40 points.

Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
4408
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
9112
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
5647
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
3.36 Points
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
28.12 fps
Help

System Performance

We assessed the notebook’s overall performance using PCMark 7. This suite of tests runs multiple applications and determines a score based on the average performance achieved in each test. Due to the strong dual-core CPU and dedicated graphics card, our test sample managed quite a bit of performance and placed itself in the upper midfield. The lack of an SSD prevented the system from reaching a higher tier of performance.

5.1
Windows 7 Experience Index
Processor
Calculations per second
7.2
Memory (RAM)
Memory operations per second
5.9
Graphics
Desktop performance for Windows Aero
5.1
Gaming graphics
3D business and gaming graphics
6.7
Primary hard disk
Disk data transfer rate
5.9
PCMark Vantage Result
8295 points
PCMark 7 Score
2442 points
Help

Storage Devices

Our test sample uses a 7200 RPM Hitachi Z7K500 500 GB hard drive which only has one platter. Due to its 7200 RPM speed, this class of drive typically requires more power and is louder but also provides a higher data throughput. Although the ThinkPad T530 has room for a larger hard disk, Lenovo chose to install a 2.5-inch drive with a build height of only 7 mm (0.28 in).

In our tests, the hard drive achieved almost 120 MB/s in sequential reads and 115 MB/s in sequential writes, demonstrating the disk’s good read and write speeds. These results place the drive in the neighborhood of low-priced SSDs for larger file access. Naturally, a physical disk cannot achieve the very short access times of any flash-based SSD, regardless of the price.

Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
Transfer Rate Minimum:
Transfer Rate Maximum: 123.2 MB/s
Transfer Rate Average: 82.4 MB/s
Access Time: 18.5 ms
Burst Rate: 177.8 MB/s

Graphics Card

For graphics, our ThinkPad T530 features two GPUs. The weaker, processor-integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 is more than sufficient for less demanding tasks and can handle HD video playback. Due to its energy-efficiency, the HD Graphics 4000 allows the system to run on battery power for longer than a dedicated graphics card would. When graphical demand increases, the ThinkPad T530 can automatically switch to the dedicated Nvidia NVS 5400M using Nvidia Optimus. As a business graphics solution based on the GeForce GT 630M chip, business applications such as  CAD/CAM (computer-aided design, computer-aided manufacturing) run particularly stably due to special drivers.

In 3DMark11, we found that the NVS 5400M is approximately comparable to the AMD Radeon HD 6650M and a bit weaker than the Nvidia GeForce GT 630M. The latter outperforms our NVS 5400M despite being based on the same chip as the drivers for the GT 630M are optimized for gaming instead of business.

3DMark 03 Standard
22955 points
3DMark 05 Standard
18251 points
3DMark 06 Standard Score
9215 points
3DMark Vantage P Result
5190 points
3DMark 11 Performance
1258 points
Help

Nonetheless, the ThinkPad T530’s suitability for CAD applications remains limited. Those seeking serious construction or design tasks should consider the ThinkPad W Series.

Lenovo ThinkPad T530 2429-5XG
NVS 5400M, 3520M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
Lenovo Thinkpad T520 4240-4CG
NVS 4200M, 2410M, Hitachi Travelstar 7K500 HTS725050A9A
Lenovo ThinkPad W520
Quadro 2000M, 2820QM, Seagate Momentus 7200.4 ST9500420AS
SPECviewperf 11
-16%
640%
1920x1080 Siemens NX
2.32
3.29
42%
19.28
731%
1920x1080 Tcvis
0.91
0.97
7%
22.13
2332%
1920x1080 SolidWorks
8.53
6.68
-22%
32.8
285%
1920x1080 Pro/ENGINEER
1.2
1.02
-15%
9.45
688%
1920x1080 Maya
9.99
6.27
-37%
45.28
353%
1920x1080 Lightwave
14.77
8.97
-39%
40.8
176%
1920x1080 Ensight
11.28
6.36
-44%
17.84
58%
1920x1080 Catia
4.54
3.71
-18%
27.08
496%

Gaming Performance

The ThinkPad T530 is not designed for gaming. We were able to play all current games in low or occasionally medium settings, but the low graphics quality ruined the experience. As the GPU is not optimized for computer games, the NVS 5400M has a slightly lower ranking than the GeForce GT 630M that is based on the same chip.

low med. high ultra
F1 2011 (2011) 79 46 44 16
Batman: Arkham City (2011) 45 40 21
Battlefield 3 (2011) 40 27 21 8
CoD: Modern Warfare 3 (2011) 157 80 43 25
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011) 53 36 28 14
Anno 2070 (2011) 96 37 24 12
Mass Effect 3 (2012) 60 41 25
Risen 2: Dark Waters (2012) 36 24 19 9
Diablo III (2012) 103 67 58 35
Dirt Showdown (2012) 83 60 35 12
Max Payne 3 (2012) 40 37 13

Emissions

System Noise

Similar to the previous ThinkPad T520, the ThinkPad T530 remains pleasantly quiet. While idle, the system emitted a barely audible 31.4 dB(A). During office use, the hard disk, which is a bit louder than the fan, was occasionally heard with a noise level of 32.6 dB(A). In this scenario, the T530 is more or less unobtrusive. The DVD drive was a bit louder, but still very quiet with a noise level of 33.9 dB(A). During load, the fan speed increased and the ThinkPad became clearly audible at 37 dB(A) but we felt this level was not disturbing due the fan’s consistent speed.

Noise Level

Idle
31.4 / 31.4 / 31.4 dB(A)
HDD
32.6 dB(A)
DVD
33.9 / dB(A)
Load
34.7 / 37 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Voltcraft sl-320 (15 cm distance)

Temperature

In terms of temperatures, the ThinkPad T530 did not score as well. While idle, the underside of the T530 reached nearly 40oC (104oF). This is very close to the feasible limit for lap-top use. The top of the notebook stayed within an acceptable range with a maximum temperature of 35oC (95oF). During the extreme load of our simultaneous CPU/GPU stress test, the ThinkPad heated up particularly in the vent area on the left side and both the top and bottom of the unit reached a high 53oC (127oF). The left wrist rest did not remain particularly cool with a measured temperature of 39oC (102oF). The previous ThinkPad T520 did much better in terms of heat management and did not even reach 40°C (104oF) during load.

Max. Load
 53 °C
127 F
35.5 °C
96 F
29.5 °C
85 F
 
 41.5 °C
107 F
37.3 °C
99 F
30.5 °C
87 F
 
 38.7 °C
102 F
31.8 °C
89 F
29.2 °C
85 F
 
Maximum: 53 °C = 127 F
Average: 36.3 °C = 97 F
31.3 °C
88 F
44.8 °C
113 F
49.5 °C
121 F
31 °C
88 F
43 °C
109 F
47.2 °C
117 F
30.2 °C
86 F
32.2 °C
90 F
53.3 °C
128 F
Maximum: 53.3 °C = 128 F
Average: 40.3 °C = 105 F
Power Supply (max.)  56.2 °C = 133 F | Room Temperature 27.1 °C = 81 F | Voltcraft IR-360
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 36.3 °C / 97 F, compared to the average of 29.5 °C / 85 F for the devices in the class Office.
(-) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 53 °C / 127 F, compared to the average of 34.2 °C / 94 F, ranging from 21.2 to 62.5 °C for the class Office.
(-) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 53.3 °C / 128 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(±) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 32.7 °C / 91 F, compared to the device average of 29.5 °C / 85 F.
(±) The palmrests and touchpad can get very hot to the touch with a maximum of 38.7 °C / 101.7 F.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 27.7 °C / 81.9 F (-11 °C / -19.8 F).
Stress test
Stress test

In our stress test, we checked to see if CPU and GPU performance remained available over longer periods of full load. At first, it seemed that the T530 coped well as it was able to run at its full 3.4 GHz Turbo Boosted speed for the first hour. Once the CPU temperature climbed to over 100oC (212oF), the CPU clock immediately dropped to 1.2 GHz and remained there until the core temperature dropped to below 80oC (176oF). In 3DMark06, the ThinkPad was able to reach full power, suggesting that overheating is very unlikely in normal use.

Speakers
Speakers

Speakers

While the ThinkPad’s speakers take up a lot of space in this implementation, the speakers themselves do nothing beyond the typical quality of business notebooks. They have an adequate volume, but music sounds hollow due to the complete lack of bass.

Battery Life

Power Consumption

We observed highly variable power consumption depending on application. While idle in energy saving mode with the Wi-Fi module disabled and the screen dimmed to minimum brightness, the ThinkPad T530 consumed 9.5 Watts. This result is 2 Watts higher than its preceding T520. With Wi-Fi enabled and maximum screen brightness, the ThinkPad T530 consumed 14.1 Watts while idle in high-performance mode. This is exactly 2 Watts less than the previous T520.

However, during load the ThinkPad T530 once again consumed more power than its predecessor. The T530 consumed approximately 5 Watts more during the stress test due to the T520’s weaker components – Core i5-2410M versus Core i7-3520M and NVS 4200M versus NVS 5400M. The measured maximum consumption of 82 Watts is acceptable for a workstation. The included 90 Watt power supply should be capable of handling this consumption, but we observed battery drain during our CPU / GPU load test.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.2 / 0.3 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 9.5 / 13.4 / 14.1 Watt
Load midlight 69.7 / 81.9 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Voltcraft VC 940
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.
Classic Test
Classic Test
Charging
Charging

Battery Runtime

As with other aspects of the ThinkPad’s configuration, several options are available for the battery. The 6 cell battery lays flush with the ThinkPad’s case. For a 20 Euro ($25 USD) premium, the 9 cell battery clearly extends out of the rear. There is also the option of using another 9 cell battery that connects to the ThinkPad’s underside via the docking port.

Our test device uses a 9 cell battery with a rated capacity of 94 Wh. In the Battery Eater Reader test, with minimum screen brightness and Wi-Fi disabled, we achieved a maximum runtime of 10.5 hours.

The more realistic Wi-Fi surfing test, with a screen brightness of 150 cd/m2 and Wi-Fi enabled, uses Internet surfing as the load and our ThinkPad sample lasted a remarkable 8 hours in this test.

We tested the ThinkPad’s endurance by watching DVD movies and measured a runtime of 5.5 hours, more than enough for even two extended cut movies.

In the Battery Eater Classic test, we rendered a moving 3D scene with Wi-Fi enabled and maximum screen brightness, representing a worst case scenario. In this test, our notebook only lasted about 2 hours. The processor’s performance remained at the same level as on AC power. The GPU was a bit weaker and only scored 9033 points in 3DMark06 as compared to the 9215 points on AC power.

The ThinkPad T530 demonstrated a 3 hour recharge time.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
10h 48min
WiFi Surfing
8h 06min
DVD
5h 35min
Load (maximum brightness)
2h 17min

Verdict

Lenovo ThinkPad T530
Lenovo ThinkPad T530

Lenovo clearly wants its ThinkPad line to take a step forward. While the notebook’s basic design was left untouched, the very familiar keyboard was completely revised and adapted to current trends. Regular Lenovo customers will need a while to get used to the new layout. Both the touchpad and TrackPoint were unchanged. On the positive side, the keyboard now has a backlight.

Otherwise, most things remain unrevised. The black plastic and magnesium case is rigid. Unfortunately, the battery is a bit loose in its compartment. Since the design has not been modified, almost all accessories can still be used. One area of upgrade is the two USB 3.0 ports that the ThinkPad 520 did not have. However, Lenovo should not have reduced the total number of ports and should have installed two more USB ports. For those requiring more interfaces, a docking station can be connected via the docking port on the underside.

Communication is once again state-of-the-art. The notebook can connect to other devices and the Internet via IEEE 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, optional HSPA+, and Bluetooth 4.0. The only reduction in this regard is the removal of the modem port. Lenovo continues to give customers many possibilities for maintenance and upgrades for the ThinkPad. Lenovo also clearly specifies what the user is allowed to modify without voiding the warranty.

The 1600x900 HD+ screen on our test device had a good average brightness of 220 cd/m2 and very good contrast. These allowed the notebook to be used outdoors when combined with the screen’s anti-reflective coating. The reproducible color spectrum remains on a consumer level and viewing angles could also be a bit better.

Our device uses the currently fastest Intel dual-core processor. It is supported by the Nvidia business graphics cardNVS 5400M. With the fast 500 GB hard disk in our system, our ThinkPad T530 was capable of good everyday performance. However, the system is too weak for games and sophisticated CAD.

The ThinkPad stayed pleasantly quiet, but became very warm. Despite a CPU temperature of up to 100°C (212oF), full performance can maintained for a long time. The battery life was good thanks to the large battery and is beneficial for a work device.

Overall, Lenovo has created a good business notebook for 1500 Euro ($1830 USD). A few point deductions were made due to heat issues and the wobbly battery, but the ThinkPad T530 is a worthy successor for the T Series. However, each user will have to decide if he or she likes the new keyboard.

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Under Review: Lenovo ThinkPad T530 2429-5XG
Under Review: Lenovo ThinkPad T530 2429-5XG, courtesy of:

Specifications

Lenovo ThinkPad T530 2429-5XG (ThinkPad T530 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i7-3520M 2 x 2.9 - 3.6 GHz (Intel Core i7)
Graphics adapter
NVIDIA NVS 5400M - 1024 MB VRAM, Core: 660 MHz, Memory: 900 MHz, Nvidia Optimus mit Intel HD Graphics 4000
Memory
8 GB 
, 2x 4 GB DDR3-RAM
Display
15.60 inch 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixel, AU Optronics B156RW01, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel QM77 (Panther Point)
Storage
Soundcard
Realtek ALC269
Connections
1 Express Card 34mm, 2 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 Firewire, 1 VGA, 1 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, 1 Docking Station Port, Audio Connections: headphone/microphone combo, Card Reader: SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC, 1 Fingerprint Reader
Networking
Intel 82579LM Gigabit Network Connection (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/), Bluetooth 4.0
Optical drive
HL-DT-ST DVDRAM GT50N
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 42 x 373 x 268 ( = 1.65 x 14.69 x 10.55 in)
Battery
94 Wh Lithium-Ion, 9 cell
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 7 Professional 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: 720p HD
Additional features
Keyboard Light: no, 36 Months Warranty
Weight
2.7 kg ( = 95.24 oz / 5.95 pounds), Power Supply: 300 g ( = 10.58 oz / 0.66 pounds)
Price
1500 Euro

 

and clearly juts out of the rear.
and clearly juts out of the rear.
The battery has a capacity of 94 Wh...
The battery has a capacity of 94 Wh...
although not sufficient for games or CAD.
although not sufficient for games or CAD.
Performance is quite impressive...
Performance is quite impressive...
The docking port is on the underside.
The docking port is on the underside.
FireWire 400 is still supported.
FireWire 400 is still supported.
USB 3.0 is new for the ThinkPad line. Unfortunately, there are only two.
USB 3.0 is new for the ThinkPad line. Unfortunately, there are only two.
External monitors can be connected via mini DisplayPort or VGA.
External monitors can be connected via mini DisplayPort or VGA.
The power supply port is next to the big battery.
The power supply port is next to the big battery.
The latch is unfortunately a bit loose.
The latch is unfortunately a bit loose.
Should the 9 cell, lithium ion battery not be enough...
Should the 9 cell, lithium ion battery not be enough...
The 90 Watt power supply is barely enough.
The 90 Watt power supply is barely enough.
One RAM slot is still empty.
One RAM slot is still empty.
A fast, 500 GB Hitachi hard disk is installed.
A fast, 500 GB Hitachi hard disk is installed.
but is fastened by only two rubber caps.
but is fastened by only two rubber caps.
It is not secured with screws,...
It is not secured with screws,...
The hard disk has its own slot.
The hard disk has its own slot.
Maintaining the ThinkPad is fairly simple.
Maintaining the ThinkPad is fairly simple.
Windows' license sticker is underneath the battery.
Windows' license sticker is underneath the battery.
an additional one can be connected to the notebook's underside.
an additional one can be connected to the notebook's underside.
One USB 2.0 is permanently powered.
One USB 2.0 is permanently powered.
Gigabit LAN is on the rear right.
Gigabit LAN is on the rear right.
ExpressCard 34 and card reader are still found on the right.
ExpressCard 34 and card reader are still found on the right.
Lenovo has dared to make one major modification.
Lenovo has dared to make one major modification.
The ThinkLight lights up in the dark.
The ThinkLight lights up in the dark.
and the hinges are stable.
and the hinges are stable.
The opening angle is also the same...
The opening angle is also the same...
The familiar hooks secure the display lid during transportation.
The familiar hooks secure the display lid during transportation.
At first glance, everything appears unchanged.
At first glance, everything appears unchanged.
the NVX 5400M.
the NVX 5400M.
and an Nvidia business graphics card...
and an Nvidia business graphics card...
comes with a current dual-core processor...
comes with a current dual-core processor...
The familiar keyboard has been replaced.
The familiar keyboard has been replaced.
The user can log in via password...
The user can log in via password...
Slight changes are found in connectivity.
Slight changes are found in connectivity.
and replaced by something else.
and replaced by something else.
and can be easily removed...
and can be easily removed...
The optical drive is again designed as an ultra-bay...
The optical drive is again designed as an ultra-bay...
Most features remain unchanged.
Most features remain unchanged.
A webcam can be built in for 10 Euro ($12 USD).
A webcam can be built in for 10 Euro ($12 USD).
The warranty covers a three year period.
The warranty covers a three year period.
The matte HD+ screen is bright and has a good contrast.
The matte HD+ screen is bright and has a good contrast.
or fingerprint.
or fingerprint.
The new ThinkPad T530...
The new ThinkPad T530...

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Links

  • Manufacturer's information

Compare Prices

Pros

+Stable case
+USB 3.0, docking port and ultra-bay
+3 year warranty
+Keyboard also with backlight
+Matte, bright screen
+Extensive configuration options
+Low system noise
+Extremely long battery life possible
 

Cons

-Wobbly battery
-Keyboard needs getting used to
-High temperature development

Shortcut

What we like

The good workmanship and the quiet, restrained impression.

What we'd like to see

A better fitting battery and more USB 3.0 ports.

What surprises us

The dual-core processor's high performance.

The competition

HP EliteBook 8570p, Dell Latitude E6530, Lenovo ThinkPad W530

Rating

Lenovo ThinkPad T530 2429-5XG - 07/06/2012 v3(old)
Jonas Adams

Chassis
83%
Keyboard
87%
Pointing Device
88%
Connectivity
85%
Weight
78%
Battery
93%
Display
86%
Games Performance
82%
Application Performance
90%
Temperature
69%
Noise
91%
Add Points
87%
Average
85%
85%
Office - Weighted Average
Jonas Adams, 2012-07-13 (Update: 2019-04-30)