Black is beautiful. The first impression shows clearly: color, overall presentation and recognizability are typical for a ThinkPad. The very reserved exterior is appealing as always and it benefits from the prestigious ThinkPad label. Just like in the Edge and S series the dot on top of the i lights up when the computer is on. The label is now upside down and can be read from behind as well as when the laptop is open. In comparison to its predecessor, the Lenovo ThinkPad T430s, there were even more changes in detail. The surface is smoothly textured and the haptic is a bit more pleasing than the rough plastic material of the older members of the series.

The case seems more like an all in one piece and also shows much less clearance. Manufacturing is top for this test device and the stability of the case has also been increased. Only the display cover can be bent quite easily especially between the hinges. Furthermore, with pressure on the cover one can disturb the picture on the screen. When treating the laptop normally and with care these should not pose any problems though. The clamshell design that was still included in part in the ThinkPad T430s has now disappeared entirely, the speakers on the side were replaced by more space for the keyboard, the track point and touchpad buttons are integrated into the 5 button clickpad, there is no more double hook closure and the separate audio buttons are now placed classically together with the other keys. The two display hinges hold the screen fixed in place, and a minimal bouncing only occurs in case of strong movements.

Lenovo was able to reduce the weight a bit through the appliance of magnesium and carbon. With a test weight of only 1.56 kg this is a very light 14-inch notebook. It is even about 200 grams lighter than our T430s test models. However, not only the weight, but also the small size of the 14-inch screen are both pleasing. In comparison to the Dell Latitude E7240 that is equipped with a 12.5-inch screen, one must accept only little more in terms of width and depth of the case size.