Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black)
- No Longer Available
- B&H # LEW5208500I7
- Mfr# 42763JU
Product Highlights
- 2.4GHz Intel Core i7-2760QM Quad-Core
- 8GB of DDR3 RAM
- 500GB Hard Drive (7200rpm)
- nVIDIA Quadro 1000M Graphics (2GB)
- 15.6" HD Anti-Glare LED-Backlit Display
- 1920 x 1080 Native Resolution
- SuperMulti DVD Burner
- 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 3.0+HS
- Integrated Webcam, Microphone & Speakers
- Windows 7 Professional (64-bit)
The ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black) from Lenovo takes the no-nonsense, business-oriented side of Lenovo ThinkPad notebooks and adds a touch of personality for customer-facing roles in small- to medium-sized businesses. The result is a slimmed down 15.6-inch notebook computer that weighs just 5.75 pounds. This Lenovo notebook is also wrapped in a refined, soft matte coating with a sleek black finish.
The 15.6" Full HD widescreen display features LED lamps, which brighten faster, use less power and provide better image quality than their CCFL counterparts. The screen has a 16:9 aspect ratio, which is also the standard for HDTVs. The 1920 x 1080 native resolution is supported by a hybrid graphics system which has a nVIDIA Quadro 1000M graphics card with 2GB of dedicated memory and integrated Intel HD Graphics 3000. The anti-glare coating allows you to use this Lenovo notebook in bright rooms or outdoors in the sunlight.
The system is powered by a quad-core 2.4GHz Intel Core i7-2760QM processor. It also has 8GB of DDR3 RAM, a 500GB 7200rpm hard drive, a SuperMulti DVD burner, 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 3.0+HS, an integrated webcam and microphone as well as built-in stereo speakers. Windows 7 Professional (64-bit) is the installed operating system.
- 2nd Generation Intel Core i7 Performance
- This Lenovo notebook features a 2.4GHz Intel Core i7-2760QM processor. Its quad cores can reach a speed of 2.4GHz. The processor can also be overclocked up to 3.5GHz with Intel Turbo Boost 2.0 Technology. With 4GB of DDR3 RAM and a 6MB L3 cache, this Lenovo notebook allows you to multitask and stay productive without any lag time
- 15.6" Full HD Widescreen LED-Backlit Display
- The 15.6" Full HD widescreen display features LED backlight technology, which provide better energy efficiency and image quality than the older CCFL backlight technology. The screen has a 16:9 aspect ratio, which is the ideal standard for HDTVs, and is constructed out of Infinity Glass. The screen also has an anti-glare coating so you can use this Lenovo notebook in bright rooms or outdoors in sunlight
- Hybrid Graphics
- This Lenovo notebook features a hybrid graphics system to support its Full HD 1920 x 1080 native resolution. For graphics-intensive applications, the nVIDIA Quadro 1000M graphics card with 2GB of dedicated memory is used. When performing everyday tasks, this Lenovo notebook will switch over to integrated Intel HD Graphics 3000 to conserve battery life
- High Definition Audio
- This Lenovo notebook comes with high definition audio support for an optimal listening experience. The built-in stereo speakers work well with tandem with the high definition audio support or you can plug in external speakers as well as headphones into the 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack for a better audio experience
- Stay Connected
- Hold video conference calls with clients or video chat with friends and family with the integrated HD webcam. This webcam is designed to work even in low-lit conditions so you'll always be seen. The built-in microphone captures your voice in clear quality so the person receiving your video chat can hear you. Multiple audio modes ensure that individuals and groups can be heard distinctly when making audio or video calls. Talk uninterrupted with keyboard noise suppression technology on this Lenovo notebook
- Lenovo Rapid Boot Technology
- Time is money. That's why Lenovo Rapid Boot technology improves boot times by up to 30% so you have instant access to important documents and files on your Lenovo notebook when you need it
- Lenovo ThinkVantage Technology
- Lenovo ThinkVantage Active Protection System and Rescue and Recovery minimize data loss because of hardware corruption, enhancing critical data safety for all your important files
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Processor | 2.4GHz Intel Core i7-2760QM Quad-Core |
| Cache | L3: 6MB |
| Memory |
Slots: 4x SO-DIMM 204-Pin Type: PC3-10600 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM Installed: 8GB Capacity: 32GB |
| Graphics Card |
Type: Hybrid Graphics System Installed: NVIDIA Quadro 1000M with 2GB Dedicated; Intel Graphics System HD 3000Shared |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Type | Widescreen |
| Size | 15.6" |
| Backlight | LED |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| Finish | Antiglare |
| Native Resolution | 1920 x 1080 |
| Brightness | 220cd/m2 |
| Storage | |
|---|---|
| Hard Drive |
Installed: 500GB 7200rpm Type: SATA |
| Optical Drive | SuperMulti DVD Burner |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Ports |
2x USB 3.0 (A) 1x USB 2.0 (A) Powered 1x eSATA and USB 2.0 combo |
| Display |
1x DisplayPort 1x VGA |
| Audio |
Integrated Stereo Speakers Integrated Microphone |
| Flash Media Slot |
1x SD 1x MMC 1x SDHC 1x SDXC |
| Communications | |
|---|---|
| Network | 10/100/1000Mbps Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45) |
| Modem | None |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11b/g/n |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 3.0+HS |
| Mobile Broadband | None |
| GPS | None |
| Webcam | Yes |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 7 Professional (64-bit) |
| Security | HDD User Password Protection, Power-On Password, Infineon TPM Software Professional Package, Kensington Lock Slot, Fingerprint Reader |
| Keyboard |
Keys: 89 Type: Standard Notebook Keyboard |
| Pointing Device | TouchPad with Multi-Touch Control |
| Battery | 9-Cell Lithium-Ion Providing up to 10.8 Hours per Charge (94Wh) |
| Power Requirements | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 14.7 x 1.4 x 9.6" / 37.3 x 3.6 x 24.5 cm |
| Weight | 5.75 lb / 2.61 kg |
- Rescue and Recovery
- Access Connections
- Fingerprint Software
- Password Manager
- ThinkVantage System Update
- ThinkVantage Power Manager
- ThinkVantage Toolbox
- Norton Internet Security 2011 (30 Days of Virus Definitions)
- Adobe Reader
- Skype for Windows
- Windows Live Essentials
- Microsoft Office 2010 Preloaded (Purchase of a Product Key is Required for Activation)
- Corel WinDVD
- Corel Burn.Now Lenovo Edition
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 13 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Fast (11)
- Good power output (11)
- Comfortable keyboard (9)
- Long battery life (8)
- Quality display (7)
Cons
- Heavy (4)
Best Uses
- Business use (9)
- Graphics (9)
- Video (8)
- Web browsing (6)
- Word processing (6)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Tech savvy (7), Avid gamer (4), Multimedia professional (3), Technically challenged (3)
- Primary use:
- Personal (8), Business (4)
Most Liked Positive Review
Superb
I fall into the category of a laptop purchase every 4-5 years. The predecessor to this was a PowerPro build on a Compal base model. Unit had hardware issues from get-go, but eventually...Read complete review
I fall into the category of a laptop purchase every 4-5 years. The predecessor to this was a PowerPro build on a Compal base model. Unit had hardware issues from get-go, but eventually resolved, despite customer service that IMO was un-professional. I was not going that route again. Had been looking at the W520 for some time, and when the W530 came out, I was in a quandary. However, after studying the Reviews online, especially the W520 users Forum, I opted to get a W520 before they disappear. I am so glad I got this machine. Its performance is incredibly fast, stable. Easily get 8-9 hrs on battery before recharge is needed. I love the classic style KB, though I acknowledge that I have not tried the W530's chicklet style KB. My main uses are heavy multi-window editorial work, graphics & spreadsheets. Not a gamer, so I can't comment on that. Surprisingy, weight is almost half pound less than the 14" Power Pro that it replaces. Only downside is the bulge of the 9-cell battery, but for 8-9 hrs of life, I'll gladly accept. I use this ~70% home office & 30% office or on-the-go. Size is not optimal for let's say extended airline travels with work, but it's not a killer, either. If you need, or feel that you could/will need the power of the W520 at some point, I would recommend this without hesitation. I waited months, looking at price fluctuations. Lenovo quietly stopped selling these about 2 weeks ago, so when they are gone from retailers, they're gone. I got mine at B&H because they have been my go-to for optics and electronics for more years than I can remember. This is my second computer purchase from them, and I am a very happy camper. I got the missus an iPad here, and she is happy with that also.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
CHEAP QUALITY PARTS - 8 Gb HYNIX SODIMM
I bought last year my fourth Thinkpad W520 (4276-3LU) from B&H NY (I7-2860QM, 1920x1080 HD, 2x4 8Gb 1333MHz, 500gb 7200rpm). I upgraded with 2 DIMMs (2x4Gb Kingston 133...Read complete review
I bought last year my fourth Thinkpad W520 (4276-3LU) from B&H NY (I7-2860QM, 1920x1080 HD, 2x4 8Gb 1333MHz, 500gb 7200rpm). I upgraded with 2 DIMMs (2x4Gb Kingston 1333Mhz) to 16 gb and with a Crucial SSD M4 256gb(bought from B&H).
Despite one dead pixel on the new pristine screen, the upgraded machine worked excellent for more than half year until i received BLUE SCREEN. Putting the original configuration and recovering software to the factory state i received BLUE SCREEN again!
By filling each 4gb memory on DIMM 0 socket under the keyboard and checking with Thinkvantage diagnostics tool i discovered a dead memory DIMM (Hynix 4GB-1333MHz, 2Rx8 PC3-10600S-9-11-F3, HMT351S6CFR8C-H9 N0 AA, Korea). Cleaning pins, still dead under testing with Memtest x86 soft on another laptop.
Using 12gb (3x4gb DIMMs) now the machine works great.
Occasionally by playing in turbo mode NFS-The Run, i wonder if the soldering paste on the cheap quality Hynix memory was melted...or the heat sink processor could not taken the heat generated in DIMM (lenovo design error). Note that copper radiator on the left side has changed over time and became from copper color to black one due to heat generated.
Now i realized i bought a processor, a HD screen, a lenovo motherboard and a still lovely keyboard - nothing else!
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 13 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-13
Pros
- Comfortable Keyboard
- Fast
- Long Battery Life
- Powerful
- Quality Display
- Quiet
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Business Use
- Graphics
- Video
- Word Processing
Comments about Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black):
Powerful & silent.
Aweful trackpad. Adjusting the pointer speed in the control panel didn't help.
Can't upgrade to Windows 8 Pro when I try to download from Windows website. The only way to do so is to buy the CD & make a clean install otherwise you're wasting money & you'll get an error message.
Best for presentations, word processing (Word & Excel) & business people who aren't too much on the move as the weight can be cumbersome. Bought as a gift for my dad who is a business consultant & he loves it.
There is no backlight keyboard but there is a mini lamp on the screen that illuminates the keyboard. That's helpful too.
Lots of ports.
- Primary use:
- Personal
Pros
- Long Battery Life
- Powerful
- Quality Display
- Quiet
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Business Use
- Graphics
- Music
- Video
- Web Browsing
- Word Processing
Comments about Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black):
Won't boot & download to Windows 8.
Trackpad not as responsive as other laptops models
Keyboard keys are quite hard.
Heavy.
Lots of updates.
Excellent battery life is power saver mode.
- Primary use:
- Personal
Pros
- Comfortable Keyboard
- Fast
- Long Battery Life
- Powerful
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black):
I ordered the laptop for my personal use. It was one of the older Lenovo models.
- Primary use:
- Personal
Pros
- Fast
- Quality Display
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Graphics
- Music
- Video
- Web Browsing
Comments about Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black):
I am using this laptop for my SolidWorks hw and so far it has worked great and have no complains about it. I really recommend it to everyone.
- Primary use:
- Personal
Pros
- It's A Thinkpad
- Powerful
Cons
Best Uses
- Business Use
- Dual Booting With Linux
- Video
- Web Browsing
- Word Processing
Comments about Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black):
I was anxious to replace my aging T60 while Windows 7 was still available. The funny thing is when I purchased the T60 I was also in a rush to purchase so I could avoid Vista.
All things considered it's a good upgrade at a great price. This Thinkpad is solidly built, but the overall quality of materials seems to be reduced slightly. I'm still giving it five starts because Thinkpads still have the best quality-for-the-price.
- Primary use:
- Personal
Pros
- Comfortable Keyboard
- Fast
- Long Battery Life
- Powerful
Cons
- Freezes Up
- Too Hot
Best Uses
- Business Use
- Graphics
- Video
Comments about Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black):
I bought last year my fourth Thinkpad W520 (4276-3LU) from B&H NY (I7-2860QM, 1920x1080 HD, 2x4 8Gb 1333MHz, 500gb 7200rpm). I upgraded with 2 DIMMs (2x4Gb Kingston 1333Mhz) to 16 gb and with a Crucial SSD M4 256gb(bought from B&H).
Despite one dead pixel on the new pristine screen, the upgraded machine worked excellent for more than half year until i received BLUE SCREEN. Putting the original configuration and recovering software to the factory state i received BLUE SCREEN again!
By filling each 4gb memory on DIMM 0 socket under the keyboard and checking with Thinkvantage diagnostics tool i discovered a dead memory DIMM (Hynix 4GB-1333MHz, 2Rx8 PC3-10600S-9-11-F3, HMT351S6CFR8C-H9 N0 AA, Korea). Cleaning pins, still dead under testing with Memtest x86 soft on another laptop.
Using 12gb (3x4gb DIMMs) now the machine works great.
Occasionally by playing in turbo mode NFS-The Run, i wonder if the soldering paste on the cheap quality Hynix memory was melted...or the heat sink processor could not taken the heat generated in DIMM (lenovo design error). Note that copper radiator on the left side has changed over time and became from copper color to black one due to heat generated.
Now i realized i bought a processor, a HD screen, a lenovo motherboard and a still lovely keyboard - nothing else!
- Primary use:
- Personal
Pros
- Comfortable Keyboard
- Fast
- Powerful
- Quiet
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Business Use
- Graphics
- Video
- Web Browsing
Comments about Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black):
I've always used ThinkPad notebooks because they are durable and have the power I need to get the job done. I use mine for my internet business so I need one with lots of power rather than one that looks 'cute'. This ThinkPad fits the bill. If I wanted to use it for playing games, I could do that too as it has the power and the video to do it...but games are not my thing. It is a little heavy but I don't do a lot of traveling so I wasn't too concerned about the weight. I need a durable workhorse with lots of power, good video and ram and that is what this notebook has. I was also very surprised by how quiet it is.
- Primary use:
- Business
Pros
- Comfortable Keyboard
- Fast
- Long Battery Life
- Powerful
- Quality Display
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Business Use
- Word Processing
Comments about Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black):
I fall into the category of a laptop purchase every 4-5 years. The predecessor to this was a PowerPro build on a Compal base model. Unit had hardware issues from get-go, but eventually resolved, despite customer service that IMO was un-professional. I was not going that route again. Had been looking at the W520 for some time, and when the W530 came out, I was in a quandary. However, after studying the Reviews online, especially the W520 users Forum, I opted to get a W520 before they disappear. I am so glad I got this machine. Its performance is incredibly fast, stable. Easily get 8-9 hrs on battery before recharge is needed. I love the classic style KB, though I acknowledge that I have not tried the W530's chicklet style KB. My main uses are heavy multi-window editorial work, graphics & spreadsheets. Not a gamer, so I can't comment on that. Surprisingy, weight is almost half pound less than the 14" Power Pro that it replaces. Only downside is the bulge of the 9-cell battery, but for 8-9 hrs of life, I'll gladly accept. I use this ~70% home office & 30% office or on-the-go. Size is not optimal for let's say extended airline travels with work, but it's not a killer, either. If you need, or feel that you could/will need the power of the W520 at some point, I would recommend this without hesitation. I waited months, looking at price fluctuations. Lenovo quietly stopped selling these about 2 weeks ago, so when they are gone from retailers, they're gone. I got mine at B&H because they have been my go-to for optics and electronics for more years than I can remember. This is my second computer purchase from them, and I am a very happy camper. I got the missus an iPad here, and she is happy with that also.
Pros
- Fast
- Long Battery Life
- Powerful
Cons
Best Uses
- Graphics
- Video
Comments about Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black):
I use this PC to perform live production editing as well as the Adobe CS4 production suite programs. I have a second hard drive installed in the ultra bay and it performs great for a mobile work station.
- Primary use:
- Business
Pros
- Comfortable Keyboard
- Fast
- Long Battery Life
- Powerful
- Quality Display
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Business Use
- Graphics
- Music
- Video
- Web Browsing
- Word Processing
Comments about Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black):
Purchased this for personal use but bought this business class laptop since it's designed for toughness. Buy a less expensive laptop designed for home use and see how easy it breaks. Not worth losing priceless family photos and other data. Plus the screen is the perfect size and high quality. The Lenovo T420 has a screen that makes my eyes hurt. Not this screen. Some complain that this laptop is too thick and heavy. I don't get it. It's a lot thinner than my decktop computer and a lot lighter too! I've taken this sized laptop on planes before. It fits in my laptop bag without a problem and the weight is lite enough. The overall design is elegant, it's blazing fast, and can't beat B&H's price and return policy. I plan to get at least 5 years out of this machine. Very happy.
- Primary use:
- Personal
Pros
- Comfortable Keyboard
- Fast
- Lightweight
Cons
- Too Hot
Best Uses
- Business Use
Comments about Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black):
Great for businesses
- Primary use:
- Business
Pros
- Comfortable Keyboard
- Fast
- Long Battery Life
- Powerful
- Quality Display
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Graphics
- Web Browsing
- Word Processing
Comments about Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black):
I use this laptop every day. I love this functional product without any fancy design. Go get top line of W520 better display 1920x1280.
- Primary use:
- Personal
Pros
- Comfortable Keyboard
- Fast
- Lightweight
- Powerful
- Quality Display
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Business Use
- Graphics
Comments about Lenovo ThinkPad W520 15.6" Notebook Computer (Black):
I'm an architect and does a lot of high graphic 3d. It does the job. works as advertised.
- Primary use:
- Business
Displaying reviews 1-13
Cases
Show more >Carry and protect your notebook in a padded sleeve or case.
- Price: $13.95
Memory
Additional memory will enhance your computer's performance and speed processing times.
- Price: $37.95
Security & Protection
Show more >Protect your computer against viruses and discourage theft with this wide range of applications.
- Price: $22.50
- Limited supply at this price
Drives & Storage
Show more >Store data safely and free up system resources to run complex programs or backups.
- Price: $76.95
- Price: $89.00
Software
Show more >Track your finances, manage your business, or add new utilities to maximize convenience.
- Price: $94.98
Networking
Show more >Share your internet connection with other computers either at home, school or the office.
- Price: $24.95
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