Lenovo adds sleek 14in model to ThinkPad Edge line

Lenovo has unwrapped an addition to its ThinkPad Edge laptop line aimed at small to medium businesses (SMBs), introducing some features from the new ultra-thin ThinkPad X1, but carrying a lower price tag.

Announced at the official UK launch of the high-end ThinkPad X1, the ThinkPad Edge E420s has a 14in 'Infinity' screen and boasts a choice of Intel Core i3, i5 or i7 processors, the latter of which can be also be configured with an optional AMD Radeon graphics chip.

The addition of a 14in Edge model rounds out Lenovo's ThinkPad line, according to Alain Raison, executive director of the company's SMB and Think products in western Europe.

"We now have a full range of laptops that address the large enterprise space and the SMB space," he said.

Like the ThinkPad X1, which has drawn much attention since its US launch earlier this week, the new Edge model has a spill-resistant keyboard, a high-definition web camera optimised for low-light conditions, and noise-cancelling software that removes the sound of typing during web conferencing sessions, according to Lenovo.

Another feature is Lenovo's Rapid Drive technology, which speeds up boot time by 30 per cent on selected models fitted with an SSD drive. A 250GB hard drive is the standard configuration, and the system supports up to 8GB of memory.

Despite its relatively slim dimensions, the Edge E420s fits in a slot-loading DVD drive and is built to be durable with a magnesium and aluminium chassis.

The laptop boasts the familiar ThinkPad black styling, and has a claimed battery life of up to seven hours with a 48.8 Whr battery pack.

Pricing for the ThinkPad Edge E420s starts at £758 + VAT.