In the competitive world of mobile workstations, Lenovo’s ThinkPad P1 Gen 8 stands out as a model that strikes a delicate balance between performance and portability. Released with a starting price of $1,979, and $2,349 as tested, this 16-inch laptop promises professional-grade capabilities within a sleek design that offers enough battery life to keep users unplugged throughout the day. Its Tandem OLED display is particularly noteworthy, delivering some of the most impressive visuals seen on a laptop. Combined with robust build quality and superior input devices, the ThinkPad P1 Gen 8 is a formidable contender in the realm of entry-level mobile workstations, earning it the Editors’ Choice award.
Configurations: Balancing Mobility, Power, and Pro-Grade Options
Lenovo’s ThinkPad P1 Gen 8 is built on Intel’s Core Ultra 2-series H-class processors and Nvidia’s “Blackwell” RTX Pro graphics, offering a blend of mobility and workstation-class power. While entry-level models with Intel Core Ultra 5 235H and Arc integrated graphics were initially available, current configurations include the more advanced Core Ultra 7 255H or 265H, paired with Nvidia’s RTX Pro 1000 or 2000 GPUs. Users can also choose up to 64GB of memory and 2TB of SSD storage, with the highest-end model priced at $5,329.
Lenovo’s adoption of the CAMM2 memory standard allows for higher bandwidth and greater capacity than traditional SODIMMs, supporting up to 64GB. Storage flexibility is also a highlight, with dual M.2 slots that can be configured in RAID 0/1 and support PCI Express 5.0.
Compared to competitors like HP’s ZBook X G1i 16 and Dell’s Pro Max 16 Premium, the P1’s components are closely aligned, though these rivals offer the more powerful RTX Pro 3000.
Design: A Modern Take on the Classic ThinkPad Formula
While no 16-inch laptop can truly be considered ultraportable, the ThinkPad P1 makes a credible effort. Its dimensions of 0.62-by-14-by-9.5 inches make it only slightly larger than its display, and it weighs in at a competitive 4.06 pounds, lighter than Apple’s MacBook Pro 16-inch. The P1 maintains the classic all-black ThinkPad aesthetic, which has aged gracefully over the years.
Build quality is exceptional, with rigid aluminum panels providing a solid feel. Lenovo claims that more than half of the materials used are recycled, and the laptop has passed MIL-STD-810H testing, ensuring durability. User-replaceable components like the speakers and battery further enhance its appeal.
Connectivity options are comprehensive, featuring Thunderbolt 5 and 4 ports, HDMI, USB-A, and a full-size SD-card reader. Wireless connectivity is cutting-edge, with support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, and optional WWAN for mobile data. Security features include Intel vPro Enterprise and Lenovo’s ThinkShield suite, with a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button and a 5MP webcam with a privacy shutter.
Screen, Inputs, and Audio: A Refined Workstation for Everyday Demands
The standout feature of the ThinkPad P1 is its display. The 3,200-by-2,000-pixel Tandem OLED panel offers exceptional brightness and color accuracy, with inky black levels typical of OLED technology. Two IPS alternatives are available, but the OLED’s superior quality justifies its $299 premium.
Typing on the P1 is a pleasure, thanks to generous key travel and a flex-free deck. The layout is productivity-focused, and the touchpad offers customizable haptic feedback. The Dolby Atmos-tuned speakers produce impressive sound quality, despite their placement under the palmrest.
Additional thoughtful features include a fold-flat hinge for collaboration and a cooling system that operates quietly. Despite its size, the P1 is a capable travel companion, fitting comfortably in a backpack and offering excellent battery life.
Performance Testing: Solid Speed, Exceptional Stamina
The ThinkPad P1 Gen 8, tested in a midrange configuration, features Intel’s Core Ultra 7 255H processor, Nvidia’s RTX Pro 2000 GPU, 32GB of memory, and a 1TB SSD. This setup competes with powerful laptops like Apple’s MacBook Pro 16-Inch, Dell’s 16 Premium, and HP’s ZBook Ultra G1a 14.
In CPU-focused tests, the P1 kept pace with Dell’s similar configuration and the AMD-powered Framework Laptop 16, though it couldn’t match Apple’s M4 Pro. The P1’s professional-grade GPU gives it an edge in pro-app stability and GPU-accelerated workflows.
Graphics and Workstation Tests
The P1’s RTX Pro 2000 GPU focuses on stability and rendering precision, outperforming consumer GPUs in professional applications. In SPECviewperf and Blender tests, the P1’s professional RTX card excelled, particularly in GPU-accelerated tasks.
Battery life testing revealed impressive endurance, with the P1 lasting over 16 hours on a single charge, outperforming many competitors. The OLED display’s brightness and color accuracy were unmatched, making it one of the brightest OLED laptops tested.
Overall, the Lenovo ThinkPad P1 Gen 8 offers a compelling combination of performance, design, and features, making it a top choice for professionals seeking a mobile workstation that doesn’t compromise on power or portability.
