
( Brand: Lenovo ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 5M11C85597 ), ( Type: Screen ), ( Screen Size: 11.6 ), ( Form Factor: Laptop Lcd Assembly ), ( Interface: Edp ), ( Resolution: 1366x768 ), ( Refresh Rate: 60hz ), ( Back Light: Led ), ( Country Of Origin: China )
The **Lenovo ThinkPad T490s (Model: 5M11C85597, FRU: TC, IPS, Mutto AUO)** is a premium mid-range business laptop designed to deliver a seamless blend of performance, portability, and professional-grade features, making it an ideal choice for professionals, students, and power users who demand reliability without sacrificing style. Engineered with Lenovo s signature ThinkPad precision, this model stands out with its **14-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS anti-glare display**, featuring a **16:9 aspect ratio** and **Mutto AUO panel technology**, which ensures vibrant colors, wide viewing angles, and reduced eye strain during extended use. The display is optimized for both productivity and multimedia, offering crisp text clarity for coding, spreadsheets, and documents while delivering rich visuals for presentations, video calls, or casual entertainment.
Under the hood, the **T490s is powered by an Intel Core i5 or i7 processor (depending on configuration)**, paired with up to **16GB of DDR4 RAM** and **512GB of PCIe NVMe SSD storage**, providing swift multitasking capabilities and near-instantaneous boot times. The **Intel UHD Graphics 620** handles everyday tasks effortlessly, while the **backlit keyboard with ThinkPad s iconic TrackPoint and TrackPad** ensures ergonomic typing and precise navigation, even for left-handed users. The **carbon fiber palm rest** and **durable 2.5mm-thick magnesium alloy chassis** contribute to the laptop s rugged yet lightweight design, weighing in at just **1.35 kg (2.98 lbs)**, making it easy to carry for long hours without compromising durability.
Connectivity options on the **T490s are comprehensive**, featuring **two USB 3.1 Type-A ports, one USB 3.1 Type-C port (with Thunderbolt 3 support for high-speed data transfer and external GPU connectivity), an HDMI 1.4 port, and a headphone/microphone combo jack**. Wireless connectivity includes **Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 4.2**, ensuring seamless integration with peripherals and networks. The **dedicated fingerprint reader** enhances security, allowing for quick and secure logins, while the **TJC (ThinkPad Just Charge) technology** enables the laptop to charge other devices via its USB ports. Battery life is a standout feature, with the **44Wh lithium-polymer battery** delivering up to **10 hours of mixed usage** (web browsing, email, video playback) on a single charge, though this can vary based on workload and settings.
Security and build quality are prioritized with **Lenovo s ThinkShield security suite**, which includes **TPM 2.0 chip, a privacy screen option (though not standard on this model), and a secure keyboard layout** that minimizes accidental key presses. The **ThinkPad T490s also supports Windows 10 Pro (or Windows 11 Pro with updates)**, offering enterprise-grade features like **BitLocker encryption, virtualization, and remote management tools**, making it a strong candidate for corporate environments. Whether used for **remote work, digital content creation, or on-the-go productivity**, this laptop strikes an excellent balance between **performance, portability, and professional-grade features**, all while maintaining Lenovo s reputation for durability and user-centric design.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Lenovo ThinkPad T490 (Model: 5M11C85597, D2 FRU, TC-IPS, Mutto AUO)**
#### **Pros**
1. **Reliability and Durability**
The Lenovo ThinkPad T490 is a well-known business-grade laptop built for longevity. It features a robust chassis with reinforced corners, a spill-resistant keyboard, and a durable trackpad. The model you re considering (D2 FRU) is a refurbished or open-box unit, which can be cost-effective while still maintaining high reliability.
2. **Strong Performance for Workloads**
The T490 typically comes with Intel Core i5 or i7 processors (depending on configuration), which handle everyday tasks, office software, light video editing, and multitasking efficiently. The included RAM (usually 8GB or 16GB) and storage (SSD, often 256GB or 512GB) are sufficient for professional use, though heavier workloads may require upgrades.
3. **Excellent Keyboard and Trackpad**
ThinkPads are famous for their **TrackPoint** (optional in some models) and **classic keyboard layout**, which are highly ergonomic and durable. The trackpad is smooth and responsive, making navigation efficient. The TC-IPS display (14-inch, 1920x1080 resolution) is sharp and provides good color accuracy for office work.
4. **Business-Focused Features**
- **Security:** ThinkPads include **TPM 2.0** (for encryption), **fingerprint reader** (if included), and **secure boot** options, making it ideal for corporate or sensitive work environments.
- **Connectivity:** Multiple USB ports (including USB-C with Thunderbolt 3 in some models), HDMI, and an SD card reader ensure compatibility with peripherals.
- **Battery Life:** While not exceptional (typically 6-8 hours of light use), it is adequate for a business laptop.
5. **Refurbished/TC-IPS Advantages**
- **Cost-Effective:** A refurbished or open-box unit (like the D2 FRU) is significantly cheaper than a new model while still being reliable.
- **IPS Display:** The TC-IPS screen (from Mutto/AUO) provides better viewing angles and color reproduction compared to standard TN panels, improving usability for extended work sessions.
6. **Good Resale Value**
ThinkPads retain their value well, so if you plan to upgrade later, you can likely sell or trade it in for a decent amount.
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#### **Cons**
1. **Outdated Hardware (for Some Users)**
The T490 is a **2018 model**, meaning it lacks modern features like:- **No USB-C with Thunderbolt 4** (only Thunderbolt 3 in some variants).
- **No Wi-Fi 6** (typically Wi-Fi 5 or older).
- **No USB 3.2 Gen 2x2** (slower than newer USB-C ports).
This may be a limitation if you work with cutting-edge peripherals or require high-speed data transfer.
2. **Display Limitations**
- The **14-inch 1080p IPS screen** is decent but not as vibrant or high-resolution as modern ultrabooks.
- Some users report **color accuracy issues** compared to professional-grade displays.
- **No touchscreen or high refresh rate**, which may be a drawback for content creators or gamers.
3. **Battery Life is Mediocre**
The T490 s battery (typically 45Wh) does not last as long as newer ultrabooks (e.g., 15 hours). Expect **6-8 hours of light use** (web browsing, documents) and significantly less under heavy workloads.
4. **Weight and Portability**
At **2.4-2.6 kg (5.3-5.7 lbs)**, the T490 is **heavier than modern ultrabooks** (e.g., MacBook Air, Dell XPS 13). While not overly bulky, it may feel cumbersome for frequent travelers.
5. **Limited Upgradeability**
- **RAM is soldered** in most configurations (though some models allow upgrades).
- **Storage is typically an M.2 SSD**, which can be replaced but may require technical skill.
- **No GPU upgrade options** (integrated graphics only).
6. **Refurbished Risks (If Applicable)**
- **Condition Variability:** Open-box or refurbished units may have **minor cosmetic flaws** (scratches, dents) or **previously used wear** (e.g., keyboard wear).
- **Warranty Limitations:** Refurbished units often come with **shortened or basic warranties** compared to new ones.
- **No Original Box/Accessories:** You may not receive the original packaging, manuals, or power adapter.
7. **Noisy Fan Under Load**
The T490 can get **loud when under heavy CPU/GPU load**, which may be annoying in quiet environments.
8. **Limited Software Support**
- **No Windows 11 out-of-the-box** (may require a clean install or downgrade from Windows 10).
- **Some drivers may not be fully optimized** for newer Windows versions.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Lenovo ThinkPad T490 (5M11C85597, D2 FRU, TC-IPS, Mutto AUO)** is a **solid, business-oriented laptop** that excels in **durability, keyboard quality, and security** making it ideal for **office work, programming, light content creation, and professional use**. Its **refurbished status and IPS display** add value without breaking the bank, while its **ThinkPad heritage** ensures reliability.
However, **its outdated hardware, mediocre battery life, and heavier weight** make it less suitable for **gaming, heavy multimedia work, or users who prioritize portability and modern connectivity**. If you need **long-term reliability, a great keyboard, and business-grade features on a budget**, this laptop is a **great choice**. If you require **high performance, long battery life, or cutting-edge features**, a newer model (e.g., ThinkPad T14, Dell XPS 13, or MacBook Pro) may be a better fit.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy this laptop if:**You need a **durable, business-class machine** for **office work, coding, or professional use**.
You want a **refurbished/affordable ThinkPad** with a **better-than-average IPS display**.
**Security and keyboard reliability** are your top priorities.
You **don t require the latest hardware** (e.g., Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 6, high refresh rate).
**Avoid this laptop if:**You need **high-performance computing** (heavy video editing, 3D rendering, gaming).
You require **long battery life (10 hours)** or **ultra-portability**.
You want **modern connectivity (Thunderbolt 4, USB4, USB-C with fast charging)**.
You **prioritize a premium display** (e.g., OLED, 4K, high refresh rate).
**Alternative Considerations:**- **For a newer ThinkPad:** Look at the **ThinkPad T14 (2022)** or **ThinkPad X1 Carbon (Gen 9)**.
- **For a premium ultrabook:** Consider the **Dell XPS 13, MacBook Air (M1/M2), or HP Spectre x360**.
- **For budget reliability:** A **refurbished Dell Latitude or HP EliteBook** could also be worth exploring.
**Final Verdict:**This **Lenovo ThinkPad T490 is a fantastic budget-friendly business laptop** that delivers **ThinkPad excellence at a lower cost**. If your needs align with its strengths, it remains a **smart purchase** despite its age. However, if you can stretch your budget slightly, a newer model may offer **better long-term value**.
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Brand: Lenovo. Part Number: 5M11C85597 - D2.: FRU ASM TC HD IPS Mutto AUO.