The A275’s and A475’s cases are based on the X270 and T470, respectively. The matte polycarbonate shell is MIL-STD-810G specified, which does not mean it is bullet- or shatterproof, but that the manufacturer has managed to pass at least one of the several dozens of tests. Whether that was contamination by liquids or fire remains unknown.

Accordingly, we have failed to notice any extraordinary capabilities. Instead, the first thing we did notice was the base unit’s noticeably rickety creaky structure: the entire tray into which the keyboard is set from above creaks enormously under torsion. And it does not take much to cause this; just picking the 12-inch notebook up by either corner is more than enough. Most of the creaking seems to originate from the area around the user-replaceable external battery.

The X270, in comparison, did no such thing. Despite the fact that the case was anything but perfect, it did not creak or twist when picked up and lifted by the corner. The palm rests are very firm and solid thanks to a magnesium insert.

Placed on the table the A275 seems very solid and premium. The lid and bottom are rubber-coated for a more secure grip, and they are not susceptible to fingerprints at all.

Just like the base the lid also twists quite easily. Fortunately, this does not result in visible distortions. The hinges are tight and firm and the display cannot be lifted one-handed. A maximum opening angle of 180° means that the display can be folded back all the way to rest on the table.

The A275 lacks a dedicated maintenance flap and features a removable top case instead. Top case and keyboard can be lifted and removed after undoing a few Philips screws at the bottom.