Lenovo ThinkPad T480 review

Where the ThinkPad T480 stands

The Lenovo ThinkPad T480 is a 2017 business laptop positioned in the ultra-budget tier at roughly $256, below the category median of $297. As Lenovo's mainstream 14-inch ThinkPad from that year, it pairs a modest GPU surplus with a notably small battery — a trade-off that defines its position. The GPU score of 6.8 is 77% above the category median of 3.8; the battery capacity of 24 Wh is 47% below the median of 45 Wh.

Graphics: a steady above-median position

The T480's GPU score of 6.8 places it comfortably above office-class peers, enough to handle casual gaming, video playback, and light GPU-accelerated media work. For an ultra-budget business laptop from 2017, this is a meaningful differentiator. It is not a gaming machine, but the headroom is real and useful.

Battery: the binding constraint

The T480's defining trade-off is its small battery. At 24 Wh — 47% below the category median of 45 Wh — the battery capacity is small even by 2017 standards. In practice, this means shorter runtime away from an outlet, particularly under load. Buyers who plan to use the laptop on the go should expect to be near a charger frequently. For desk-bound workflows, the constraint is less impactful.

Price trajectory

From its launch price to $256 today, the T480 has depreciated to the flat tail of its curve. The projected price two years out represents a modest further decline. As a 2017 machine, the depreciation is essentially complete.

How it compares

In the $240-$280 refurbished business range, the T480 sits among several 2017-2018 alternatives. The Dell Latitude 7490 at $232 and the HP EliteBook 850 G6 at $259 are direct competitors from the same era. The T480's distinguishing factor is its combination of above-median GPU and below-median battery — a pairing that makes it a credible pick for desk-bound workflows with light gaming needs. Buyers who need portability should consider alternatives with larger batteries.

Bottom line

The ThinkPad T480 is a 2017 business laptop whose GPU surplus is offset by its small battery. At $256, it is priced below the category median and offers more graphics headroom than typical office alternatives. The trade-off is battery life — the 24 Wh capacity is small even by 2017 standards. For desk-bound workflows with light gaming needs, it earns its asking price; for portable workflows, buyers should look elsewhere.