How to open Lenovo ThinkPad L16 Gen 1 – disassembly and upgrade options

LaptopMedia.com Guides How to open Lenovo ThinkPad L16 Gen 1 - disassembly and upgrade options

From: Severin Kolakov 29 September 2024 / 11:16 0

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Lenovo ThinkPad L16 Gen 1

Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 155U
VideoCard: Intel Graphics (4-Cores)
RAM: 64GB RAM
STORAGE: 2000GB SSD

Detailed review

Lenovo ThinkPad L16 Gen 1

Processor: Intel Core Ultra 5 135U
VideoCard: Intel Graphics (4-Cores)
RAM: 64GB RAM
STORAGE: 1000GB SSD

Detailed review

Lenovo ThinkPad L16 Gen 1

Processor: Intel Core Ultra 5 135U
VideoCard: Intel Graphics (4-Cores)
RAM: 64GB RAM
STORAGE: 4000GB SSD

Detailed review

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Opening the Device

Undo the ten captive Phillips-head screws securing the bottom panel.
Remove the SIM card tray.
Use a thin plastic tool to pry the top two corners.
Next, pry the sides and the back, and then pop the front to remove the panel.

More info: Here’s how the bottom panel looks on the inside.

Battery Removal

Detach the battery connector from the mainboard.
Undo the three Phillips-head screws securing the battery to the chassis.
Lift the battery to remove it from the device.

Note: This laptop comes with an optional 57Wh battery, while the base model has a 46.5Wh battery. The optional battery provides around 12 hours of video playback.

Memory Information

A mylar film is placed over the RAM zone for protection.
The two SODIMMs support up to 64GB of DDR5-5600MHz RAM in dual-channel mode, though the CPU can support up to 96GB, allowing for potential future upgrades.

You can buy compatible RAM modules here: Buy from Amazon.com (#CommissionsEarned)

Storage Upgrade

Locate the single M.2 slot compatible with 2280 Gen 4 SSDs.
The NVMe drive is covered in foil, with a thermal pad on the bottom for heat management.

Hint: Don’t forget to check out our Top M.2 SSDs Performance Rankings for insights on the best storage options available.

You can buy compatible SSDs here: Buy from Amazon.com (#CommissionsEarned)

WWAN Slot and Wi-Fi Card

The WWAN slot is located on the right side and is used for optional 4G connectivity.
Unfortunately, the Wi-Fi card is soldered and cannot be upgraded.

Cooling System Overview

The cooling system is basic, featuring one fan, a single heat pipe, a heat sink, and a heat spreader.
Ensure all cooling components are clean and free of dust for optimal performance.

Lenovo ThinkPad L16 Gen 1 (Intel) in-depth review

Most business laptops that offer up-to-date hardware and features are expensive. Of course, you can find devices in this segment that don't cost an arm and a leg. Just like the Intel version of the ThinkPad L16 Gen 1 which is powered by Intel Meteor Lake processors. If you care about battery life, a 15W U-series chip is the better choice and you can also find this machine with 28W CPUs that are more suitable for heavy workloads.You also get decent upgradability alongside a modern port selection. The base security features seem good for the class, including a privacy shutter, a Kensington N[...]

Read the full review

Pros

Rigid build
Good overall performance
The fan is quiet during max CPU stress in "Best Performance" mode
PWM-free panel (LEN41B5)
Comfortable viewing angles (LEN41B5)
360 nits of max brightness (LEN41B5)
Good audio quality
Web camera with a privacy shutter
Modern port selection with two Type-C ports
The CPU can sustain high P-core and E-core clocks in long loads (~3.50 GHz / 3.00 GHz)
Comfortable keyboard + smooth touchpad
2x SODIMMs
The bottom panel is easy to open
4G, NFC, Smart Card reader, vPro CPU, 5MP IR Web camera, and fingerprint reader (all are optional)