Connect 15: Laptop launches with removable battery, smart card reader and optional LTE

Schenker has introduced the new Connect 15 laptop. It is now available starting at €999, although that entry-level configuration naturally only includes 8GB of DDR5 RAM and a 500GB SSD. Regardless of the version selected, all models are powered by the Intel Core 5 120U. The display measures 15.6 inches diagonally and, at 60Hz, offers a refresh rate suited for office use rather than gaming. It is an IPS panel with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels that is said to cover more than 90 percent of the sRGB color space. Schenker lists a brightness of 400 nits.

The laptop measures 10.3 x 9.4 x 0.8 inches and weighs about 3.9 lb. It comes with a 55Wh battery that can be replaced quickly and without tools. At a brightness of 150 cd/m² while browsing over Wi-Fi, battery life is rated at around 6 hours. Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 are always included. The LTE module, available for €79, enables mobile connectivity without relying on a smartphone hotspot. The webcam offers Full-HD resolution.

One unusual detail is that the laptop can be charged over USB PD at 65 watts, making it faster than charging with the included power adapter, which weighs 9.5 oz and provides 45 watts through a barrel connector. Gigabit Ethernet is included. There is also not only a microSD card reader but also a SmartCard reader. USB 2.0 is present as well, along with one Thunderbolt 4 port, one USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port, one USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A port, HDMI 1.4b, and a combined 3.5 mm audio jack. For an additional €29, Schenker will activate the Secured-Core features that are sometimes highly important or even mandatory in regulated environments.