ThinkPad

ThinkPad is a line of business-oriented laptops and tablets that began with IBM in 1992. The ThinkPad lineage emphasized reliability, durable construction, and strong keyboards, establishing a reputation for enterprise-grade performance. In 2005 the ThinkPad brand and manufacturing were acquired by Lenovo, which has continued to develop and market ThinkPad devices while expanding the range to include premium ultrabooks, workstations, and convertibles. The name has remained closely associated with professional computing and a distinctive design ethos.

Design and features: ThinkPads are typically built with sturdy chassis using materials such as magnesium or carbon fiber and are often finished in a matte black aesthetic. A hallmark is the red TrackPoint pointing stick amid the keyboard, paired with a conventional touchpad. Keyboards are widely praised for their travel and tactility, making lengthy typing comfortable. Security features are a focus, with options such as trusted platform module (TPM), fingerprint readers, and infrared cameras for Windows Hello. Many models also carry durability credentials, including MIL-STD-810G certifications on select configurations, and some offer spill-resistant keyboards.

Product lines and impact: Lenovo maintains several ThinkPad sublines, including the T series for mainstream business use, the X series for ultraportables, the L series as a budget option, and the P series for mobile workstations, alongside 2-in-1 Yoga variants such as the X1 Yoga. The X1 Carbon has served as a flagship, combining light weight with high-end specifications. ThinkPads are widely deployed in corporate, educational, and government sectors for their reputed build quality, serviceability, and strong keyboard performance, contributing to the brand’s lasting status in enterprise computing.