Lenovo ThinkPad E480 · Intel Core i5 (7th Gen) · 14" HD · 8 GB / 256 GB SSD

If you want ThinkPad E-series quality without paying new-laptop prices, this is the one to look at. The E-series is the entry point to ThinkPad — the one small businesses buy when they want the ThinkPad keyboard and reliability without paying T-series prices. The E480 is an entry ThinkPad with a clean aluminium-look lid; a good first business laptop.

The Core i5 is the sweet spot for most people — quick enough for multitasking, Office, coding and online classes, without the extra cost of an i7. The 7th-generation chip is a refinement of the 6th — slightly faster, better at video playback, and very comfortable for office work and study. 8 GB of RAM is comfortable for everyday multitasking — browser, Office, music and a video call. A 256 GB SSD keeps everything snappy — no waiting around for the hard drive. The 14-inch HD screen is fine for documents, browsing and video.

Build and everyday use

Aluminium lid on most versions, around 1.7 kg, with a simple no-nonsense design. A good keyboard, though a touch shallower than the T-series. It comes with genuine Windows 11 Pro installed and activated.

Upgrades

Usually two RAM slots and room for extra storage — easy to grow.

Who it suits

Small businesses, students and first-time laptop buyers. It sits in our picks for students, schools, small businesses.

Condition and what's in the box

Grade A- means it may have light scuffs or small marks on the lid or base, nothing that affects use. Every unit is tested on our checklist, securely wiped, cleaned and shipped with a compatible charger, a GST invoice and 12-month warranty.