Modular Design Makes Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 Tablet a Standout at CES

The modular design of Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 Tablet allows users to mix and match different features depending on their needs.

Lenovo has done a fine job of pitching the ThinkPad X1 as a versatile mobile device that can perform all sorts of functions, but first and foremost, the ThinkPad X1 Tablet is a tablet. It’s equipped with a touch screen, works with multitouch gestures and functions at the same level as competing tablets such as the iPad Pro.

The ThinkPad X1 Tablet is highly modular. The device comes with several ports that allows users to plug in the features they care about. For instance, if they want to use it as an entertainment center for watching movies, they can get a module that will allow for that. If they want to get some 3D renderings, another module makes that possible. Best of all, it can be a full-fledged notebook, complete with a keyboard. The ThinkPad X1 Tablet can be just about whatever owners want.

There aren’t that many surprises with the display built into the ThinkPad X1 Tablet. It comes with a 12-inch screen featuring a 2K resolution that’s broad enough to enable a wide viewing angle.

The ThinkPad X1 comes with optional LTE mobile connectivity as well as WiFi. That option is a major selling point for enterprise users. Not being able to connect to the Internet while on the road is a deal breaker for business users and any user who is worried about the security of public WiFi services.

The ThinkPad X1 runs on an Intel Core m7 processor and Windows 10 Pro. While it can run for about 10 hours on a single battery charge, users can plug in an additional module to get 5 more hours of power. In addition, the keyboard comes with both a track pad and track pointer for those who prefer those input options. Users can also adjust the keyboard typing for their personal comfort. And it doesn’t hurt that the device weighs just 2.4 pounds.

Following its competitors in the market, Lenovo has decided to go with stylus support in the ThinkPad X1 Tablet. Users will therefore be able to write on the screen, draw and even edit documents. The stylus works with Lenovo’s WriteIt platform, which allows users to fill out data fields via handwriting that is automatically corrected, if text is misspelled. Lenovo hasn’t provided many details about the stylus, but it will be a welcome add-on for many corporate customers.

The ThinkPad X1 Tablet comes with a neat add-on called the Productivity Module. The module is essentially a docking device that provides additional USB 3.0 ports, as well as a full-sized HDMI port to plug in optional components such as displays, storage disks, printers or scanners. The Productivity Module also tacks on a battery pack to boost battery life to 15 hours.

Lenovo has built 3D features into the ThinkPad X1. The optional 3D Imaging Module comes with the rear-facing Intel RealSense 3D camera. With this module, users can photograph an object and see it in 3D on the device. The module prints 3D copies, and it can also scan buildings or objects to compare their dimensions with blueprints. It’s flanked by another module, called the Presenter Module, that lets people project images on a screen.

Security is important in the corporate world. So it’s no surprise that Lenovo has built several security features into the ThinkPad X1 Tablet. The device includes a fingerprint sensor, Discrete Trusted Platform Module (dTPM) encryption and more. There are also remote device management features, including Intel vPro and Active Management Technology.

According to Lenovo, the ThinkPad X1 Tablet will be available starting in February. Prices start $899, but will increase quickly as users add modules and other options. Still, it seems like a reasonable price for a well-rounded tablet.