Key Specifications

Detailed Technical Specifications

• **Processor:** 8th Generation Intel Core i3/i5/i7 (Whiskey Lake-U) or 10th Generation Intel Core i5/i7 (Comet Lake-U) processors. Options include Intel Core i5-8265U, i7-8565U, i7-8665U, i5-10210U, i7-10510U, and i7-10710U (6-core option).
• **RAM:** Up to 32GB DDR4-2400MHz or DDR4-2666MHz, soldered to the motherboard.
• **Storage:** M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD, configurable up to 1TB. Supports M.2 2280 SSDs.
• **Graphics:** Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620.
• **Display:** 13.3-inch options including:
  • HD (1366×768) TN panel.
  • FHD (1920×1080) IPS anti-glare, non-touch (300 nits).
  • FHD (1920×1080) IPS anti-glare, multi-touch (300 nits).
  • FHD (1920×1080) IPS with PrivacyGuard (400 nits).
• **Ports:**
  • 1x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C (Power Delivery, DisplayPort, Data transfer).
  • 1x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C / Thunderbolt 3 (Power Delivery, DisplayPort, Data transfer).
  • 2x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A (one Always On).
  • 1x HDMI 1.4b.
  • 1x Headphone/microphone combo jack (3.5mm).
  • 1x Ethernet extension connector (requires adapter).
  • 1x Side docking connector.
  • Optional SmartCard reader.
  • MicroSD card reader (shared with nano-SIM slot on WWAN models).
• **Wireless Connectivity:** Intel Wireless-AC 9560 (802.11ac 2×2) + Bluetooth 5.0/5.1, or Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX200 (802.11ax 2×2) + Bluetooth 5.1. Optional WWAN (Fibocom L850-GL 4G LTE-A CAT9).
• **Battery:** 48Wh or 50Wh internal battery.
• **Dimensions & Weight:** Starting at 12.2″ x 8.6″ x 0.63″ (310.4 x 219 x 15.95 mm) and 2.85 lbs (1.29 kg).

The Lenovo ThinkPad X390 offers a robust set of technical specifications tailored for business users prioritizing portability and performance. The inclusion of 8th and 10th generation Intel Core U-series processors provides ample power for everyday productivity and moderately demanding tasks. The soldered RAM, while ensuring a compact design, limits future upgradeability, making the initial configuration choice critical. However, the M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD offers fast storage and is user-upgradeable, allowing for capacity expansion or performance enhancement. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 is suitable for business applications and light multimedia but is not designed for intensive graphical workloads or modern gaming. Display options cater to various needs, from cost-effective HD panels for bulk enterprise purchases to high-quality FHD IPS displays, including touch and PrivacyGuard options for enhanced security and viewing experience. The port selection is comprehensive for an ultrabook, featuring modern USB-C with Thunderbolt 3, traditional USB-A, HDMI, and an Ethernet extension connector, ensuring broad connectivity. Wireless options include Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6, along with optional 4G LTE, providing flexible connectivity on the go. The chassis, constructed from magnesium alloy and carbon fiber, emphasizes durability and a premium feel.

Support & Compatibility

• **Operating System Support:** Windows 10 Pro 64-bit, Windows 10 Home 64-bit, and Linux (including Ubuntu Linux).
• **End of Support Date:** Specific end-of-support dates are not explicitly listed but typically align with Lenovo’s general business product lifecycle and Microsoft’s Windows 10 support.
• **Available Drivers:** Drivers are available through Lenovo’s official support website, ensuring compatibility with supported operating systems.
• **Docking Compatibility:** Compatible with ThinkPad Docking Stations (e.g., ThinkPad Basic, Pro, and Ultra docking stations) via a side docking connector, offering expanded connectivity and charging.
• **Accessories:** Supports various Lenovo accessories, including Ethernet adapters for the extension connector.

The ThinkPad X390 demonstrates strong compatibility with mainstream operating systems, primarily Windows 10, and offers support for Linux distributions, which is beneficial for diverse enterprise environments. Lenovo maintains a comprehensive driver repository, facilitating system maintenance and ensuring optimal hardware performance. The laptop’s design integrates seamlessly with ThinkPad docking solutions, enhancing its utility as a desktop replacement by providing easy access to multiple peripherals and displays. While a specific end-of-support date is not readily available, ThinkPads generally receive extended support, reflecting their enterprise-grade positioning. The availability of optional accessories like Ethernet adapters further extends its compatibility and functionality in various professional settings.

Security Status

• **Physical Security:** Kensington lock slot.
• **Biometric Security:** Optional touch fingerprint reader (match-on-chip) and optional IR camera for Windows Hello facial recognition.
• **Privacy Features:** ThinkShutter physical webcam privacy cover. Optional ThinkPad PrivacyGuard display technology.
• **Data Security:** Discrete Trusted Platform Module (dTPM 2.0) for hardware-based encryption. Optional Intel vPro for enhanced manageability and security features.
• **BIOS Security:** Power-on password, supervisor password.
• **Anti-theft:** Computrace support.

The ThinkPad X390 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of security features, making it a strong choice for enterprise use. Hardware-level security is robust, including a dTPM 2.0 chip for secure boot and data encryption. Biometric options like the fingerprint reader and IR camera provide convenient and secure login methods compatible with Windows Hello. Privacy is addressed with the ThinkShutter webcam cover and the innovative PrivacyGuard display option, which limits viewing angles to prevent shoulder surfing. The optional SmartCard reader adds another layer of authentication for sensitive environments. While no system is entirely invulnerable, the X390’s integrated security measures, combined with BIOS-level protection and Computrace support, significantly mitigate common security risks for business users. Regular software and firmware updates from Lenovo are crucial for maintaining its security posture against evolving threats.

Performance & Benchmarks

• **Processor Performance:** 8th Gen Intel Core i5/i7 (Whiskey Lake) and 10th Gen Intel Core i5/i7 (Comet Lake) processors deliver strong performance for productivity tasks.
• **Benchmark Scores:**
  • PCMark 8: Achieves very decent scores, indicating good overall system performance for office work and everyday computing.
  • Geekbench 4: Shows very good multi-core and single-core scores for its class.
  • Internal Benchmarks: An i7-8565U with 16GB RAM model scored 83 in general benchmark tests, comparable to the HP Spectre x360 13.
• **Real-world Performance:** Handles video streaming, heavy web browsing with multiple tabs, word processing, and file sharing without significant slowdowns. CPU maintains 3GHz – 3.5GHz boost clock under extended workloads.
• **Graphics Performance:** Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 is suitable for basic 3D performance and low power usage, but not for demanding gaming or professional graphics applications.
• **Storage Performance:** PCIe NVMe SSDs provide fast read and write speeds.
• **Thermal Management:** Generally stays cool and quiet, even under load, though some users report minor heating around the display area during prolonged use.

The Lenovo ThinkPad X390 delivers solid performance for its target audience of mobile business professionals. The 8th and 10th generation Intel U-series processors provide sufficient power for multitasking and typical office applications, with benchmark results confirming its capability within the ultrabook category. The fast PCIe NVMe SSD significantly contributes to quick boot times and responsive application loading. However, the integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 means the device is not suited for graphically intensive tasks, which is a common trade-off for ultraportable business laptops. While the RAM is soldered, opting for 16GB or 32GB at purchase ensures adequate memory for most professional workflows. Thermal management is effective, keeping the device relatively cool and quiet during typical use. Compared to similar devices, the X390 offers competitive performance, balancing power with portability and battery efficiency.