Lenovo equips the new ThinkPad X13 G2 with 16:10 display and 5G connectivity

The new ThinkPad X13 G2 is a comparatively comprehensive update, because Lenovo uses a completely revised chassis for its compact business laptop. The design is still familiar, but the new model is a bit narrower and you can also get it in silver. The panel size is still 13.3 inches, but the aspect ratio is now 16:10, so it is a bit narrower than the previous 16:9 screen. The big "chin" underneath the display is now gone and the new model now looks much more modern.

Similar to the first generation of the ThinkPad X13, you will once again get Intel and AMD processors, but the Ryzen models will follow later. The Tiger Lake processor in the X13 G2 performs wenn and benefits from the high power limits. The fan is no annoying under load, but it is noticeably louder compared to the very quiet first generation. The chassis can also get pretty warm around the fan exhaust. The Intel CPU is not a bad choice by any means, but we are already eager to see the AMD Ryzen 5000 processor, which should be much faster at comparable power limits.

The X13 G2 is excellent in terms of connectivity: In addition to two modern USB-C ports including Thunderbolt 4 and USB 4, you also get regular USB-A ports and a full-size HDMI output. Contrary to many modern ultrabooks, this means you will not need any adapters. If you want to stay connected on the go, you can either get integrated LTE or even 5G connectivity.

The new standard display option (1920 x 1200 pixels) is decent and offers accurate colors, but it is not particularly bright at little more than 300 nits. We would definitely recommend the optional screen with 2560 x 1600 pixels, which does not really affect the battery runtime. Long-term ThinkPad users will have to make compromises in terms of the keyboard though, because the typing experience is noticeable worse compared to the previous model due to the reduced key travel and flatter keys. 

Looking at the price, you also have to compare the new X13 G2 with the ThinkPad X1 Carbon G9, which has a slightly larger footprint, but it is also lighter in return. You also get a better standard display and the two models are comparable in many other sections. Please see our comprehensive reviews for more information on these two models:

• Lenovo ThinkPad X13 G2
• Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon G9