Lenovo has just announced two new computers. One is a laptop called the ThinkPad P50s. The other is a desktop called the ThinkStation P310. Both are made for people who need strong machines but do not want to spend a lot.
What is the Lenovo ThinkPad P50s?
The ThinkPad P50s is a mobile workstation. It is built for engineers, designers and other power users. The laptop starts at $1,299, which is $300 less than the older ThinkPad P50.
Key features of the P50s include:
- Processor: Intel Core i7 Skylake
- Graphics: NVIDIA Quadro (same family as the P50)
- Memory: Up to 32 GB RAM
- Screen: 15.6‑inch 3K display with 2,880 × 1,620 pixels
- Weight: 2.2 kg (4.9 lb)
Lenovo calls the P50s a “thinner and lighter mobile workstation”. The lighter weight makes it easier to carry to meetings or client sites.
How does the P50s compare to the ThinkPad P50?
The older ThinkPad P50 is a bigger, more expensive machine. It starts at $1,599 and uses an Intel Xeon processor. The P50 also offers a 4K display, which is sharper than the 3K screen on the P50s.
Here is a quick side‑by‑side comparison:
- Price: P50 – $1,599; P50s – $1,299
- Processor: P50 – Intel Xeon; P50s – Intel Core i7
- Display: P50 – 4K; P50s – 3K (2,880 × 1,620)
- Weight: P50 – 3.18 kg (7.6 lb); P50s – 2.2 kg (4.9 lb)
- Memory limit: Both up to 32 GB
The P50s drops the Xeon CPU and the 4K screen to keep the cost down. It still keeps the professional NVIDIA Quadro graphics, so it can run CAD, 3D modelling and video editing software.
Who should consider the ThinkPad P50s?
The P50s is a good choice for people who need a strong laptop but also need to travel. It is lighter than the P50, so it fits in a backpack more easily.
Typical buyers include:
- Freelance designers who work on client sites
- Engineers who need to run simulation software while traveling
- Students in technical fields who want a durable machine
Pros of the P50s:
- Lower price than the P50
- Light weight (2.2 kg)
- Professional NVIDIA Quadro graphics
- Large 3K screen for detailed work
Cons to keep in mind:
- No 4K display, so a tiny bit less sharp
- Uses a Core i7 instead of a Xeon, which may affect some heavy‑duty apps
If you can live with a slightly lower screen resolution and a Core i7 CPU, the P50s gives great value.
Overview of the ThinkStation P310 desktop
The ThinkStation P310 is Lenovo’s entry‑level workstation desktop. It is aimed at small businesses and individual professionals who need a solid desktop without a huge price tag.
Key specifications:
- Price: Starts at $729
- Processor: Intel Xeon E3‑1200v5 series
- Graphics: NVIDIA Quadro (same family as the P50s)
- Memory: Up to 64 GB RAM – double the limit of previous entry‑level ThinkStations
- Storage options: Up to 4 TB HDD or 1 TB SSD (Samsung SSD mentioned)
The P310 will be available in the first quarter of 2016. Its price of $729 makes it one of the most affordable workstations in Lenovo’s line.
How the P310 fits into the ThinkStation line
ThinkStation workstations are known for reliability and long‑term support. The P310 sits at the bottom of the line, but it still offers professional‑grade components.
Compared with higher‑end ThinkStations, the P310 has:
- Less powerful CPUs (still Xeon, but lower‑tier models)
- Same NVIDIA Quadro graphics family, which is good for CAD and 3D work
- More memory capacity than older entry models (now up to 64 GB)
- Flexible storage choices – users can pick a big hard drive or a fast SSD
Because it is cheaper, the P310 is a good stepping stone for a small studio or a freelance engineer who wants a desktop that can grow with their needs.
FAQ
Is the ThinkPad P50s good for gaming?
The P50s uses NVIDIA Quadro graphics, which are made for professional work, not gaming. It can run some games, but you may not get the best performance.
Can I upgrade the RAM in the ThinkStation P310?
Yes. The P310 supports up to 64 GB of RAM. You can add more memory later if your projects need it.
Does the P50s have a touchscreen?
No. The P50s has a regular 3K display. If you need a touchscreen, Lenovo also released the ThinkPad P40 Yoga, which costs $1,399 and includes a touch screen and stylus.
What warranty does Lenovo offer on these machines?
Lenovo provides a standard one‑year warranty on both the P50s and the P310. You can buy extended support if you want longer coverage.
Conclusion
Lenovo’s ThinkPad P50s gives a lighter, cheaper way to own a professional workstation laptop. The ThinkStation P310 brings similar power to a desktop at an entry‑level price. Both devices let users do demanding work without breaking the bank.