The ThinkPad T-series is Lenovo's bread and butter business notebook. This 14-inch T430 is a refreshed version of the popular T420. Read on to find out what we like and dislike about this laptop
Build and Design
The ThinkPad T430 continues Lenovo's tradition of nondescript all-business designs valuing form over function. The exterior is covered in strong carbon-fiber reinforced plastic which doesn't flex. It has a finely textured surface while the back of the lid is slightly rubberized. There's not a hint of glossy plastic to be found; remember, the T430 doesn't have to look good on a display shelf at Best Buy.
Ports and Features
One way to tell a true business class notebook from an entry level or consumer model is by the variety of ports included. This ThinkPad T430 is a true business class notebook; it includes the expected USB ports but also has DisplayPort (albeit a mini version), a SmartCard reader , an ExpressCard/34 slot (good for adding 3G cards) and a pair of fast USB 3.0 ports. It's not missing much - eSATA, whose purpose has been largely eclipsed by USB 3.0, and HDMI, which isn't usually found in the business world.