This is how Lenovo transformed the ThinkPad X9-15 into the X9-15p

It would be easy to mistake the Lenovo ThinkPad X9-15p Gen 1 Aura Edition that we recently reviewed for the older ThinkPad X9-15. Both look extremely similar and their footprint in terms of size is identical. The few differences on the outside include the exposed user-facing speaker grills on the Lenovo laptop ThinkPad X9-15p, as well as some additional ports, like an SD card reader and a third Thunderbolt 4.

The true differences lie underneath. As Lenovo changed the CPU platform from Intel Lunar Lake to Intel Panther Lake, a much more powerful processor, some changes were necessary. To increase the TDP of the device, Lenovo has to put in a much more powerful cooling system. The fans are about doubled in size, and they are connected by a wider copper heat pipe.

To make this possible without increasing the size of the laptop, Lenovo changed the design of the battery - it takes up less space, but the capacity is still increased from 80 to 88 Whr. In short, the battery has a higher energy density. Also, the motherboard is less wide, but longer, allowing for more space for the fans.

It does not end there: Lenovo also changed the format of the SSD, adopting the bigger M.2 2280 format, instead of the more limited 2242 format the Lenovo ThinkPad X9-15 used.

Overall, the results of the redesign are convincing. The newer system is much faster, with a slightly longer battery life. The only real drawback is an increase in weight, from 1.4 to 1.53 kg - a fair price to pay for all the upgrades the ThinkPad X9-15p brings.