ThinkPad R series

ThinkPad R Series
Company type	Product line
Industry	Computer hardware
Predecessor	ThinkPad 300 Series, ThinkPad A Series
Founded	2001
Defunct	2010 (original series)
Fate	Discontinued in favor of Lenovo L, SL, and E series; reintroduced in 2017 for China market
Key people	IBM, Lenovo
Products	Notebook computers

The ThinkPad R Series represents a range of budget-friendly to mid-tier notebook computers introduced as the follow-up to the ThinkPad 300 Series and ThinkPad A Series. Initially engineered by IBM between 2001 and 2005, Lenovo took over production until 2010, after which the series was phased out to prioritize distinct product lines aimed at targeted market niches.

IBM marketed the ThinkPad R Series, beginning with the R30, as a mid-level option tailored for business professionals desiring cost-effective solutions—a "road warrior" requiring dependable office connectivity and essential productivity applications. Positioned as a more affordable alternative to the T series, the R models incorporated cost-cutting design choices, such as eliminating the magnesium alloy midframe and rubberized metal cover characteristic of premium models. These adjustments enabled IBM to offer configurations with reduced specifications at a more competitive price.

Despite its budget-conscious construction, the R Series garnered favorable critiques. For instance, CNET awarded the ThinkPad R40 an 8.2 rating, highlighting its performance, aesthetic design, and battery endurance as well-suited for both mobile users and stationary work environments. Starting with the R50 generation, the lineup was entirely based on the T series architecture but retained its economical design compromises. Interestingly, the R Series adopted FireWire connectivity ahead of the T Series, which only integrated it with the ThinkPad T61.

In 2010, the R Series was discontinued in favor of Lenovo’s L, SL, and E series. The brand was reintroduced in 2017 exclusively for China as a premium offshoot of the ThinkPad E Series, incorporating upgrades such as aluminum lids and fingerprint scanners.

T Series Derived Models

ThinkPad R series (2001–2010)
Case Size	Screen	Category	R3x (2001–2002)			R4x (2003)	R5x (2003–2006)			R6x (2006–2008)		Rx00 (2008–2010)
4:3 aspect ratio displays
14.1"	13.3"	Mainstream	R30	R31	R32	R40	merged into 14" lineup					Available only in 16:10 ratio
	13.3"	Economy				R40e	merged into 14" lineup
	14.1"	Mainstream	R30	R31	R32	R40	R50	R51	R52	R60	R61
		Performance					R50p
		Mid-Range								R60i	Exclusive to 16:10 format
		Economy				R40e	R50e	R51e		Only available in 15"
15"		Mainstream				R40	R50	R51	R52	R60	R61
		Performance					R50p
		Mid-Range								R60i	R61i
		Economy					R50e	R51e		R60e
16:10 aspect ratio displays
14.1"		Mainstream									R61	R400
		Mid-Range									R61i	Superseded by Edge/E series models
		Education									R61u^[1]

R30

The ThinkPad R30 was equipped with XGA screens available in either 13.3" or 14.1" sizes. It introduced distinctive design features such as a beveled left rear corner and visible metal hinges, which became a design benchmark for subsequent ThinkPad models.

R31

Retaining the same display choices, the ThinkPad R31 incorporated socketed processors, a new chipset that enabled upgrading to a newer CPU generation, and included the IBM Embedded Security Subsystem. These improvements resulted in a slight increase in overall weight.

R32

Although considered a minor update, the ThinkPad R32 brought substantial internal enhancements. These included replacing the Pentium 3-M CPUs with Mobile Pentium 4-M processors, upgrading memory from PC-133 SDRAM to DDR-266 RAM, and redesigning the motherboard to feature UltraBay battery connectors.

Model	Release (US)	Dimensions ^{(w, d, h)}	Weight ^(min)	CPU	Chipset	Memory ^(max)	Graphics	Storage	Networking	Audio	Screen	Battery
R30	Oct 2001	313 x 254 x 36 mm (12.3 x 10 x 1.4")	Template:LaptopWeight	Intel Mobile Celeron or Mobile Pentium 3 ^(Coppermine) FSB: 100MT/s	ALi CyberBLADE ALADDiN i1	1GB ^{(2x PC133 SDR SO-DIMM)}	Trident CyberBLADE ALADDiN i1 ^{(8MB shared)}	One Ultrabay Plus, One 2.5" IDE	Intel 82550GY ^{10/100 Ethernet} Optional IBM High Rate Wireless LAN with Modem in Mini-PCI slot Optional Agere LU97 Scorpio AC'97 modem card in CDC slot (exclusive)	Intel AC'97 2.2 Audio with Realtek ALC200	CCFL backlit 1024x768 (XGA) TN TFT LCD for both sizes	M(8) NiMH battery option No UltraBay battery terminals
R31 ^[2]	Feb 2002	313 x 254 x 36 mm (12.3 x 10 x 1.4")	Template:LaptopWeight	Intel Mobile Celeron or Mobile Pentium 3-M ^(Tutalin) FSB: 133MT/s	Intel 830MG	1GB (2x PC133 SDR SO-DIMM)	Intel Extreme Graphics ^{(32MB shared)}	Ultrabay Plus, One 2.5" IDE	Intel 82562ET ^{10/100 Ethernet} Optional IBM High Rate Wireless LAN with Modem or Cisco Aironet Wireless 802.11b in Mini-PCI slot Optional Agere LU97 Scorpio AC'97 modem card in CDC slot (exclusive)	Intel AC'97 2.1 Audio with Analog Devices AD1881A SoundMAX	CCFL backlit XGA TN TFT LCD (both sizes)	M(8) NiMH battery option No UltraBay battery terminals
R32 ^[3]	Jun 2002	313 x 254 x 38 mm (12.3 x 10 x 1.5")	Template:LaptopWeight	Intel Mobile Celeron or Pentium 4-M ^(Northwood) FSB: 400MT/s	Intel 845MP	1GB DDR-266 SO-DIMM max memory	ATI Mobility Radeon 7000 ^(8/16MB)	Ultrabay Plus, One 2.5" IDE drive bay	Intel 82562ET ^{10/100 Ethernet} Optional IBM High Rate Wireless LAN with Modem I or II or Cisco Aironet Wireless in Mini-PCI slot Optional Agere LU97 Scorpio AC'97 modem card in CDC slot (exclusive)	CCFL backlit XGA TN TFT LCD (both sizes)	M(6), U batteries available

R40

The ThinkPad R40 came with four screen choices and two chassis sizes: a 13.3" or 14.1" XGA panel within the 14" frame, and either an XGA or SXGA+ 15.0" display housed in the 15" case. Serving as an updated version of the R32, it preserved the fundamental design while incorporating significant improvements. Notably, the R40 marked the debut of the UltraNav trackpad in the R series, introduced a higher-resolution 1400x1050 SXGA+ display on the 15" model, and added Bluetooth connectivity, USB 2.0 ports, along with a hot-swappable UltraBay.

R40e

The ThinkPad R40e represented a cost-effective model featuring two display options: 13.3" or 14.1" XGA screens. To reduce expenses, this variant omitted the UltraBay (equipped instead with a fixed optical drive), docking port, S-Video output, FireWire connection, IrDA interface, and the secondary speaker. It did not include Bluetooth support, lacked 15" screen variants, did not offer Pentium M processors, and did not support trackpads.

Model	US Launch	Dimensions ^{(width × depth × height)}	Minimum Weight	CPU	Chipset	Maximum Memory	Graphics	Storage	Network	Display	Battery	Additional Features
R40 (14")	January 2003	313mm × 254mm × 38mm (12.3" × 10" × 1.5")	Template:LaptopWeight	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;"\| Intel Mobile Celeron, Pentium 4-M (Northwood), or Pentium M (Banias) FSB: 400MT/s	Intel 855PM^{[lower-alpha 1]} or 845MP	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Up to 2GB ^{(2× DDR-266 SO-DIMM)}	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| ATI Mobility Radeon 7000 (16MB) or Radeon 7500 (32MB)	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| One UltraBay Plus; One 2.5" IDE hard drive	Intel 82562EZ Ethernet (10/100), Agere LU97 modem Optional Bluetooth 1.1 and 802.11b Wireless LAN	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| CCFL-backlit XGA (1024×768) TN TFT for both 13" and 14"	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| M(6) / U battery options	White ThinkLight; Optional Trackpad; Compatible with ThinkPad Port Replicator II and Mini-Dock
R40 (15")	January 2003	330mm × 268mm × 41mm (13" × 10.6" × 1.6")	Template:LaptopWeight		Intel 855PM^{[lower-alpha 1]} or 845MP	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| CCFL-backlit XGA (1024×768) or SXGA+ (1400×1050) TN TFT
R40e	March 2003	313mm × 254mm × 39mm (12.3" × 10" × 1.5")	Template:LaptopWeight	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel Mobile Celeron or Pentium 4-M FSB:400MT/s	ATI RS200M	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Up to 1GB ^{(2× DDR-266 SO-DIMM)}	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| ATI Mobility Radeon 330M IGP	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Single fixed 2.5" IDE hard drive	Broadcom BCM5901 Ethernet (10/100), Agere LU97 modem Optional Wireless LAN (802.11b)	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| CCFL-backlit XGA (1024×768) TN TFT for both display sizes	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| M(6) battery exclusively; no UltraBay support	White ThinkLight

R50

The R50 utilized an updated T series framework, eliminating the magnesium midframe found in the T40 and increasing structural thickness to enhance rigidity, alongside subtle design adjustments. It was available with three display configurations: a 14.1" XGA TN panel, a 15" XGA TN panel, or a 15" SXGA+ IPS screen.

R50p

Serving as a successor in spirit to the Axxp lineup, the R50p was equipped with either a 15" UXGA IPS or QXGA IPS display, addressing the void left by the lack of a 15" T40/T41 variant.

R50e

The R50e came with two display size options: 14.1" or 15", both featuring XGA TN panels.

R51

Continuing the business-oriented tradition, the R51 was offered with either a 14.1" XGA TN, or a 15" XGA TN or SXGA+ IPS display.

R51e

Marking Lenovo’s initial branding on the R series in September 2005, the R51e provided choices between 14.1" and 15" XGA TN screens.

R52

Introducing DDR2 memory technology, the R52 discontinued IPS display options until they reappeared in subsequent E series models. Display options included 14.1" XGA TN, 15" XGA TN, or 15" SXGA+ TN panels.

Model	US Release	Dimensions ^{(width, depth, height)}	Minimum Weight	CPU	Chipset	Maximum Memory	Graphics	Storage	Networking	Audio	Screen	Battery	Additional Features
R50 (14")	October 2003	314 x 260 x 37 mm (12.4 x 10.2 x 1.46")	Template:LaptopWeight	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel Pentium M ^(Banias) FSB: 400 MT/s	Intel 855PM	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Up to 2GB ^{(2x DDR-333 SO-DIMM)}	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| ATI Mobility Radeon 7500 or 9000 ^32MB	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| One UltraBay Enhanced slot, One IDE 2.5" drive bay	Intel 82540EP Gigabit or Intel 82562EZ 10/100 Ethernet Agere LU97 Scorpio modem with optional Bluetooth Optional Mini PCI slot for 802.11b/g WLAN	Intel AC'97 Audio featuring Analog Devices AD1981B SoundMAX	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| CCFL backlit 1024x768 (XGA) TN TFT display	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| M(9) U	Single Amber ThinkLight Compatible with ThinkPad Port Replicator II, Mini-Dock, Dock II
R50 (15")	October 2003	332 x 269 x 40 mm (13.1 x 10.6 x 1.58")	Template:LaptopWeight	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| CCFL backlit XGA (1024x768) TN or SXGA+ (1400x1050) IPS TFT LCD						Intel AC'97 Audio featuring Analog Devices AD1981B SoundMAX
R50p	November 2003	332 x 269 x 40 mm (13.1 x 10.6 x 1.58")	Template:LaptopWeight	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel Pentium M ^(Banias) FSB: 400 MT/s		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Up to 2GB ^{(2x DDR-333 SO-DIMM)}	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| ATI Mobility Radeon FireGL T2 ^128MB	One UltraBay Enhanced slot, One IDE bay for a 2.5" drive	Intel Gigabit Ethernet, Agere modem with Bluetooth support, 802.11b/g WLAN via Mini PCI slot		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| CCFL backlit UXGA (1600x1200) or QXGA (2048x1536) IPS TFT panels	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| M(9) U	Single Amber ThinkLight Standard Trackpad Supports Port Replicators and Docking Stations
R50e (14")	April 2004	314 x 260 x 37 mm (12.4 x 10.2 x 1.46")	Template:LaptopWeight	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel Celeron M or Pentium M ^{(Banias/Dothan)} FSB: 400 MT/s	Intel 855GM	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Up to 2GB ^{(2x DDR-266 SO-DIMM)}	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel Extreme Graphics 2 (64MB shared memory)	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Single IDE bay for a 2.5" drive	Intel 82562EZ Ethernet, Conexant SmartV.92 modem in CDC slot, 802.11b/g WLAN via Mini PCI slot		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| CCFL backlit XGA (1024x768) TN TFT panel	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| M(9)	Single Amber ThinkLight
R50e (15")	April 2004	332 x 269 x 40 mm (13.1 x10.6 x1.58")	Template:LaptopWeight		Intel 855GM	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| CCFL backlit XGA (1024x768) TN TFT panel							Single Amber ThinkLight
R51 (14")	April 2004	314 x260 x37 mm (12.4 x10.2 x1.46")	Template:LaptopWeight	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel Celeron or Pentium M (Banias/Dothan) FSB:400 MT/s	Intel855GME	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Up to 2GB (DDR-333 SO-DIMM)	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel Extreme Graphics 2 (64MB shared), ATI Mobility Radeon7500/9000 (32MB)	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| One UltraBay Enhanced slot, One IDE drive bay	Intel Gigabit or10/100 Ethernet, Conexant SmartV.92 modem with optional Bluetooth, 802.11b/g WLAN optional via Mini PCI slot		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| CCFL backlit XGA (1024x768) TN TFT panel	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| M(9) U	Single Amber ThinkLight Optional Trackpad Compatible with Port Replicators and Docking Stations
R51 (15")	April 2004	"332 x269 x40 mm (13.1 x10.6 x1.58") "\| Template:LaptopWeight kg=3.0		"CCFL backlit XGA(1024x768) TN or SXGA+(1400x1050) IPS TFT panel"	Intel855GME
R51e (14")	"September2005"	"314 x260 x37 mm (12.4 x10.2 x1.46")"	"Template:LaptopWeight kg=2.8"	"Intel Celeron M or Pentium M(Dothan) FSB:533 MT/s"	"ATI RC410MD"	"Up to 2GB DDR2-533 SO-DIMM"	"ATI Radeon Xpress200M(64MB shared)"	"One IDE drive bay"	"Broadcom BCM5751F Ethernet, Conexant SmartV.92 modem, Optional Bluetooth, 802.11b/g WLAN via Mini PCI slot"	"CCFL backlit XGA TN TFT panel"	"M(9)"	"Single Amber ThinkLight"
R51e (15")	"332 x269 x40 mm (13.1 x10.6 x1.58")"	"Template:LaptopWeight kg=3.0"		"CCFL backlit XGA TN TFT panel"
R52 (14")	"March2005"	"314 x260 x37 mm (12.4 x10.2 x1.46")"	"Template:LaptopWeight kg=2.8"	"Intel Celeron M or Pentium M(Dothan) FSB:533 MT/s"	"Intel915PM/910GML/915GM chipsets"	"Up to 2GB DDR2-533 SO-DIMM"	"ATI Mobility Radeon X300(32/64MB), Intel GMA900(128MB shared)"	"One UltraBay Enhanced slot, One IDE drive bay"	"Broadcom BCM5751M Gigabit Ethernet, Conexant SmartV.92 modem with optional Bluetooth, 802.11b/g WLAN optional via Mini PCI slot"	"CCFL backlit XGA TN TFT panel"	"M(9) U"	"Single Amber ThinkLight Optional Trackpad Supports Port Replicators and Docking Stations"
R52 (15")	"332 x269 x40 mm (13.1 x10.6 x1.58")"	"Template:LaptopWeight kg=3.0"		"CCFL backlit XGA or SXGA+ TN TFT panels"

R60

The R60 introduced four display variants, featuring XGA or SXGA+ TN panels available in 14.1" and 15" sizes. It marked the R series' initial adoption of SATA hard drives, moving away from IDE drives used in earlier models like the R52, which had employed SATA-to-IDE bridging for compatibility and cost reasons. Its design was modeled after the T60, launched two months prior.

R60i

Exclusively sold in the Chinese market, the R60i presented four screen options: XGA or SXGA+ TN panels in both 14.1" and 15" configurations.

R60e

The R60e was offered with a single display choice—a 15" XGA TN panel.

R61

Representing a shift in the R series from the traditional 4:3 to a 16:10 aspect ratio, the R61 provided between six and eight display options. These included 15" XGA or SXGA+ panels in 4:3 format (limited to Europe and Asia), WXGA and WXGA+ panels at 14.1" or 15.4" sizes with a 16:10 ratio, as well as a WSXGA+ 15.4" 16:10 panel. Some reports also mention additional 14" 4:3 options. This generation featured a magnesium rollcage similar to that of the T series, which also incorporated a 4-pin FireWire port, further harmonizing features between the T and R lines.

R61i

The budget-friendly R61i came with seven display selections: 15" XGA or SXGA+ TN panels (not sold in the US), WXGA TN screens in 14.1" or 15.4" sizes (both with glossy options), and a WXGA+ TN panel at 14.1". It omitted premium features such as discrete graphics cards and WWAN connectivity and uniquely offered an option without a touchpad.

R61e

This model was equipped with one display option—a 15.4" WXGA TN panel.

R61u

The R61u provided four screen choices: WXGA TN at either 14.1" or 15.4", WXGA+ TN at 14.1", and WSXGA+ TN at 15.4". Despite its designation, it was not a slimmer variant of the R61 but rather a version specifically designed for educational use.

Model	Release (US)	Dimensions ^{(w, d, h)}	Weight ^(min)	CPU	Chipset	Memory ^(max)	Graphics	Storage	Networking	Audio	Screen	Battery	Other
R60 (14")	May 2006	314mm x 260mm x 37.2mm (12.4" x 10.2" x 1.46")	Template:LaptopWeight	Intel Celeron M or Core Solo/Duo ^(Yonah) or Core 2 Duo ^(Merom) FSB: 667MT/s	Intel 945GM	Up to 3GB ^{(2x DDR2-667 SO-DIMM)}	Intel GMA 950 or ATI Mobility Radeon X1300 ^(64MB) or X1400 ^{(128MB; up to 512MB shared)}	One Ultrabay Enhanced, One 2.5" SATA I	Intel 82573 or Broadcom BCM5751M ^{Gigabit Ethernet} Conexant CSM92-SP modem card in CDC Slot Optional Wireless LAN/WAN Mini-PCIe Slot Optional Bluetooth on Display Cable	Intel HD Audio with AD1981HD	CCFL backlit XGA (1024x768) or SXGA+ (1400x1050) TN TFT LCD	M(9) U	One Amber ThinkLight Trackpad optional Compatible with Essential Port Replicator, Advanced Mini-Dock, Advanced Dock
R60 (15")	May 2006	332 x 269 x 40 mm (13.1 x 10.6 x 1.58")	Template:LaptopWeight		Intel 945GM	Up to 3GB ^{(2x DDR2-667 SO-DIMM)}		One Ultrabay Enhanced, One 2.5" SATA I			CCFL backlit XGA (1024x768) or SXGA+ (1400x1050) TN TFT LCD	M(9) U
R60i (14")	Not available in US ^{(Nov 2006 China release)}	314 x 260 x 37.2 mm (12.4 x10.2 x1.46")	Template:LaptopWeight	Intel Pentium Dual Core or Core Duo ^(Yonah) or Core 2 Duo ^(Merom) FSB:667MT/s	Intel 945GM	Up to 3GB ^{(2x DDR2-667 SO-DIMM)}	Intel GMA950 or ATI Mobility Radeon X1300 ^(64MB) or X1400 ^{(128MB; up to512MB shared)}	One Ultrabay Enhanced, One SATA I	Broadcom BCM5751M Gigabit Ethernet Conexant CSM92-SP modem card in CDC Slot Optional WLAN/WAN and Bluetooth as above		CCFL backlit XGA (1024x768) or SXGA+ (1400x1050) TN TFT LCD	M(9) U	One Amber ThinkLight Trackpad optional Supports Essential Port Replicator, Advanced Mini-Dock, Advanced Dock
R60i (15")	Not available in US ^{(Nov 2006 China release)}	332 x269 x40 mm (13.1 x10.6 x1.58")	Template:LaptopWeight		Intel 945GM	Up to 3GB ^{(2x DDR2-667 SO-DIMM)}		One Ultrabay Enhanced, One SATA I			CCFL backlit XGA (1024x768) or SXGA+ (1400x1050) TN TFT LCD	M(9) U
R60e	May 2006	332 x269 x40.2 mm (13.1 x10.6 x1.58")	Template:LaptopWeight	Intel Celeron M or Core Solo/Duo ^(Yonah) or Core 2 Duo ^(Merom) FSB:667MT/s	Intel 940GML or 945GM	Up to 3GB (940GML max:2GB) ^{DDR2-533/667 SO-DIMM}	Intel GMA950 Speed: ^{940GML:166MHz;945GM:250MHz}	One SATA I drive bay	Broadcom BCM5751M Gigabit Ethernet Conexant CSM92-SP modem card in CDC Slot Optional Wireless LAN as above		CCFL backlit XGA (1024x768) TN TFT LCD	M(9)	One Amber ThinkLight
R61 (14" Wide)	May 2007	335.5 x237 x34.9 mm (13.2 x9.3 x1.37")	Template:LaptopWeight	Intel Celeron (Merom) or Core 2 Duo (Merom/Penryn) FSB:800MT/s	" rowspan=3 "Intel GM965 or PM965"	Up to 8GB DDR2-667 SO-DIMM	Intel GMA X3100 or nVidia Quadro NVS 140M (128MB)	One Ultrabay Enhanced, One SATA I drive bay	" rowspan=3 "Intel 82566M or Broadcom BCM5787M Gigabit Ethernet, Conexant CSM92-SP modem card in CDC Slot,Optional WLAN/WAN and Bluetooth as above"		CCFL backlit WXGA (1280×800) or WXGA+ (1440×900) TN TFT LCD	M(9) U	" rowspan=3 "One Amber ThinkLight, Standard Trackpad, Optional 1.3MP Camera, Compatible with Essential Port Replicator, Advanced Mini-Dock, Advanced Dock"
R61 (15")		"332 x269 x40 mm (13.1×10.6×1.58")"	"Template:LaptopWeight kg=2.8"						CCFL backlit XGA (1024×768) or SXGA+ (1400×1050) TN TFT LCD
R61 (15″ Wide)		"358.5 ×260 ×38.5 mm (14.1 ×10.2 ×1.4")"	"Template:LaptopWeight kg=2.9"						CCFL backlit WXGA (1280×800) or WSXGA+ (1680×1050) TN TFT LCD
R61i (14″ Wide)	"rowspan=3 Jul 2007"	"335.5 ×237 ×34.9 mm (13.2 ×9.3 ×1.37")"	"Template:LaptopWeight kg=2.4"	Intel Pentium Dual Core (Merom) or Core 2 Duo (Merom/Penryn) FSB:800MT/s"	"rowspan=3 Intel GM965"	Up to 8GB DDR2-667 SO-DIMM"	Intel GMA X3100"	One Ultrabay Enhanced, One SATA I drive bay	"rowspan=3 Intel 82566M or Broadcom BCM5787M Gigabit Ethernet, Conexant CSM92-SP modem card in CDC Slot,Optional WLAN and Bluetooth as above"		CCFL backlit WXGA (1280×800) Glossy option available or WXGA+ (1440×900) TN TFT LCD"	M(9) U"	"rowspan=3 One Amber ThinkLight, Trackpad optional, Optional 1.3MP Camera, Supports Essential Port Replicator, Advanced Mini-Dock, Advanced Dock"
R61i (15")	"332 ×269 ×40 mm (13.1 ×10.6 ×1.58")"	"Template:LaptopWeight kg=2.8"		CCFL backlit WXGA or SXGA+ TN TFT LCD
R61i (15″ Wide)	"358.5 ×260 ×38.5 mm (14.1 ×10.2 ×1.4")"	"Template:LaptopWeight kg=2.9"		CCFL backlit WXGA TN TFT LCD Glossy option available"
R61e	"Jul 2007"	"358.5 ×260 ×38.5 mm (14.1 ×10.2 ×1.4")"	"Template:LaptopWeight kg=2.9"	Intel Celeron or Core 2 Duo (Merom) FSB:800MT/s"	"Intel GM965"	Up to 8GB DDR2-667 SO-DIMM"	Intel GMA X3100"	One SATA I drive bay	"Broadcom BCM5787M Gigabit Ethernet, Conexant CSM92-SP modem card in CDC Slot,Optional WLAN as above"		CCFL backlit WXGA TN TFT LCD"	M(9)"	"One Amber ThinkLight"
R61u (14″ wide)	"Feb 2008"	"335 ×261 ×34.9 mm (13.2 ×10.2 ×1.37")"	"Template:LaptopWeight kg=2.5"	Intel Core 2 Duo (Penryn) FSB:800MT/s"	"rowspan=2 Intel GM965 or PM965"	Up to 8GB DDR2-667 SO-DIMM"	Intel GMA X3100 or nVidia Quadro NVS 140M (128MB)"	One Ultrabay Enhanced, One SATA I drive bay	"rowspan=3 Intel 82566M or Broadcom BCM5787M Gigabit Ethernet, Conexant CSM92-SP modem card in CDC Slot,Optional WLAN and Bluetooth as above"		CCFL backlit WXGA or WXGA+ TN TFT LCD"	M(9) U"	"rowspan=2 One Amber ThinkLight, Standard Trackpad, Optional 1.3MP Camera, Supports Essential Port Replicator, Advanced Mini-Dock, Advanced Dock"
R61u (15″ wide)	"Jan 2008"	"358.5 ×260 ×38.5 mm (14.1 ×10.2 ×1.4")"	"Template:LaptopWeight kg=2.9"		CCFL backlit WXGA or WSXGA+ TN TFT LCD"

R400

The R400 provided two display configurations: a 14.1" WXGA or WXGA+ TN screen. Its fundamental design was derived from the 14" widescreen R61, with the primary distinction being the repositioning of ports. This model introduced a SATA-based Serial UltraBay Enhanced, replacing the previous PATA/IDE UltraBay Enhanced, while still supporting earlier UltraBay devices. Both internally and externally, the R400 bore a strong resemblance to the T400 and even utilized the same Hardware Maintenance Manual. This close similarity likely influenced the decision to discontinue the R series in 2010.

R500

The R500 came with two screen options: a 15.4" WXGA or WSXGA+ TN display. It maintained the core design of the 15" widescreen R61, featuring only slight modifications to port locations.

Model	Release (US)	Dimensions ^{(w, d, h)}	Weight ^(min)	CPU	Chipset	Memory ^(max)	Graphics	Storage	Networking	Audio	Screen	Battery	Other	Operating System
R400	Aug 2008	335.5 x 238mm x 35mm (13.2" x 9.4" x 1.4")	Template:LaptopWeight	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel Celeron ^{(Merom L)} or Core 2 Duo ^{(Merom or Penryn)} FSB: 1066MT/s	Intel GM45	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| 8GB ^{(2x DDR3-1066 SO-DIMM)}	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X4500 or ATI Mobility Radeon HD3570 ^{(128MB or 256MB)}	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| One Serial Ultrabay Enhanced, One 2.5" SATA II	Broadcom BCM5787M Gigabit Ethernet, Conexant CSM92-SP modem in CDC Slot, 802.11n Wireless LAN in Mini-PCIe Slot; optional Wireless WAN, Wireless USB, and Bluetooth 2.1		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| CCFL backlit 1280x800(WXGA) or 1440x900(WXGA+) TN TFT LCD	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| M(9) and U battery options	One Amber ThinkLight; UltraNav Trackpad; optional 1.3MP Camera; supports ThinkPad Essential Port Replicator, Advanced Mini-Dock, Advanced Dock
R500	Aug 2008	358.6mm x 260mm x 39mm (14.1" x 10.2" x 1.5")	Template:LaptopWeight		Intel GM45	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| CCFL backlit 1280x800(WXGA) or 1680x1050(WSXGA+) TN TFT LCD

2010-2017

Following its discontinuation in 2010, the R series was absent for seven years until it resurfaced in China in 2017 as the high-end R480 model based on the E480 platform.

E series Based Models

ThinkPad R series (2017–Present)
Screen	Type	Rx80 (2017)	Rx90 (2018)	2019	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024
14"	Mainstream	R480	R490	R14 Gen 1	R14 Gen 2	R14 Gen 3	R14 Gen 4	R14 Gen 5	R14 Gen 6
15"	Mainstream	R580	R590	R15 Gen 1	R15 Gen 2

R480

Introduced in China during 2017, the ThinkPad R480 served as a premium alternative to the E480, maintaining most specifications but distinguished by a lid crafted from aluminum. This approach of offering upscale variants within the E Series continued with later models.

R580

The ThinkPad R580 debuted in 2017 as the larger counterpart to the R480, paralleling the relationship between the E580 and E480, and was constructed on the E580 framework.

Model	Release (China)	Dimensions ^{(w, d, h)}	Weight ^(min)	CPU	Chipset	Memory ^(max)	Graphics	Storage	Networking	Audio	Screen	Battery	Other	Operating System
R480	Nov 2017	329mm x 242mm x 19.9mm (12.9" x 9.5" x 0.78")	Template:LaptopWeight	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 U series processors from the 7th ^{(Kaby Lake)} or 8th generation ^{(Kaby Lake R)}	Kaby Lake Intel SoC Chipset	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Up to 32GB ^{(2x DDR4-2400 SO-DIMM)}	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Integrated Intel HD Graphics 620 or UHD Graphics 620 with optional discrete AMD Radeon 540 ^{(2GB GDDR5)}	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| One 2.5" SATA III bay and one M.2 x2 slot	Realtek RTL8111GUS Gigabit Ethernet 802.11ac Wireless LAN with Bluetooth 4.1 combo card in M.2 slot		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| LED Backlit display options: 1366x768 (HD) TN or 1920x1080 (FHD) IPS TFT LCD	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| m(3) 45Wh battery capacity	720p webcam Keyboard with 1.8mm key travel
R580 ^{[lower-alpha 2]}	Nov 2017	369mm x 252mm x 19.95mm (14.53" x 9.92" x 0.78")	Template:LaptopWeight		Kaby Lake Intel SoC Chipset	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| LED Backlit panel options include 1366x768 (HD) TN or 1920x1080 (FHD) IPS							720p webcam Keyboard with 1.8mm key travel

R490

Following the precedent set by the R480, the R490 was derived from the E490 platform and introduced only in China. Its design changed little aside from featuring an aluminum lid and adopting a new model name. It incorporated Whiskey Lake Intel U series processors.

R590

Serving as the larger version of the R490, the R590 was based on the E590 chassis. Unlike the R490, all variants of the E590 were equipped with aluminum lids, providing a noticeable physical differentiation.

Model	Release (China)	Dimensions ^{(w, d, h)}	Weight ^(min)	CPU	Chipset	Memory ^(max)	Graphics	Storage	Networking	Audio	Screen	Battery	Other	Operating System
R490	Dec 2018	329.3 mm x 242.8 mm x 19.9 mm (12.96" x 9.56" x 0.78")	Template:LaptopWeight	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 U series processors from the 8th generation ^{(Whiskey Lake)}	Intel SoC Platform Chipset	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Maximum memory of 64GB ^{(2x DDR4-2400 SO-DIMM)}	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 with optional AMD Radeon 540X discrete GPU ^{(2GB GDDR5)}	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Storage includes one 2.5" SATA III drive bay plus one M.2 x2 slot	Realtek RTL8111GUS Gigabit Ethernet 802.11ac Wireless LAN combined with Bluetooth versions 4.1 or 5.1 in M.2 combo card		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| LED Backlit screens available in either 1366x768 (HD) TN or 1920x1080 (FHD) IPS TFT LCD	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| m(3) 45Wh battery pack	Webcam at 720p resolution Keyboard with key travel of 1.8mm
R590	Dec 2018	369mm x 252.5mm x 19.9mm (14.53" x 9.94" x 0.78")	Template:LaptopWeight		Intel SoC Platform Chipset	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| LED Backlit display choices include either HD (1366x768) TN or FHD (1920x1080) IPS panels

R14 Gen 1

In 2019, Lenovo introduced a revised naming convention for the R series, combining the model letter, screen dimension, and generation number. The R14 Gen 1 marked the debut of a 14-inch display within the R Series ThinkPads and was essentially a premium configuration variant of the E14. Unlike the E14, which offers both aluminum lids and chassis options, the R14 is designed with an aluminum lid paired with a plastic chassis.

R15 Gen 1

The R15 Gen 1 represented the first 15-inch model in the R series lineup, deriving its design from the E15 Gen 1.

Model	Release (China)	Dimensions ^{(w, d, h)}	Weight ^(min)	CPU	Chipset	Memory ^(max)	Graphics	Storage	Networking	Audio	Screen	Battery	Other	Operating System
R14 Gen 1	Oct 2019	325 x 232 x 18.9 mm (12.8" x 9.13" x 0.74")	Template:LaptopWeight	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel 10th generation ^{(Comet Lake)} U-series Core i3, i5, or i7	Intel SoC Platform Chipset	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Up to 32GB DDR4-2666 SO-DIMM	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel UHD Graphics 620 with Optional AMD Radeon 625 (2GB GDDR5)	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| One 2.5" SATA III bay plus one M.2 x4 slot	Realtek RTL8111GUS Gigabit Ethernet 802.11ac/ax Wi-Fi + Bluetooth 5.0/5.1 combo card		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| LED-backlit 1920x1080 (FHD) TN or IPS panel	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| m(3) 45Wh	720p webcam with optional ThinkShutter Keyboard with 1.8 mm key travel
R15 Gen 1	Oct 2019	368 x 245 x 18.9 mm (14.49" x 9.65" x 0.74")	Template:LaptopWeight		Intel SoC Platform Chipset	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| LED-backlit 1920x1080 (FHD) TN or IPS panel

R14 Gen 2

The second iteration of the ThinkPad R14 preserved the original design but incorporated upgrades including Intel’s 11th generation processors and replaced the previous single M.2 slot and 2.5" SATA bay with dual M.2 PCIe slots. Additionally, USB-C and USB-A ports were enhanced to Thunderbolt 4 capability. This model, built on the ThinkPad E14 Gen 2 platform, featured an aluminum lid as well as an aluminum chassis base.

R15 Gen 2

Released simultaneously with the R14 Gen 2, the final version of the ThinkPad R15 was based on the ThinkPad E15 Gen 2 design.

Model	Release (China)	Dimensions ^{(w, d, h)}	Weight ^(min)	CPU	Chipset	Memory ^(max)	Graphics	Storage	Networking	Audio	Screen	Battery	Other	Operating System
R14 Gen 2	November 2020	324 x 220 x 17.9 mm (12.76" x 8.66" x 0.7")	Template:LaptopWeight	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel 11th generation ^{(Tiger Lake)} G4/G7 Core i3, i5, or i7 processors	Intel SoC Platform Chipset	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Up to 32GB DDR4-3200 SO-DIMM (single module)	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel UHD Graphics Xe or Iris Xe with Optional NVIDIA GeForce MX350 or MX450 ^{(2GB GDDR5)}	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Dual M.2 x4 slots	Realtek RTL8111GUS Gigabit Ethernet 802.11ac/ax Wi-Fi + Bluetooth 5.0/5.1 (soldered)		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| LED-backlit Full HD (1920x1080) TN or IPS display Touchscreen optional	rowspan="2" style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| m(3) 45Wh battery capacity	Integrated 720p camera with optional ThinkShutter Equipped with one Thunderbolt 4 port Keyboard featuring a key travel distance of 1.8 mm
R15 Gen 2	November 2020		368 x 245 x 18.9 mm (14.49" x 9.65" x 0.74")	Template:LaptopWeight	Intel SoC Platform Chipset		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| LED-backlit Full HD (1920x1080) TN or IPS panel Touchscreen available as an option

R14 Gen 3

The third iteration of the ThinkPad R14, which is derived from the ThinkPad E14 Gen 3, incorporates AMD Ryzen 5000 series processors (Zen 3 architecture). This edition is offered exclusively as a 14-inch model, with no availability of a 15-inch version or additional R series variants following it.

Model	Launch (China)	Dimensions ^{(width, depth, height)}	Minimum Weight	Processor	Chipset	Maximum Memory	Graphics	Storage Options	Connectivity	Audio	Display	Battery Capacity	Additional Features	Operating System
R14 Gen 3	April 2021	324 x 220.7 x 17.9 mm (12.76" x 8.69" x 0.7")	Template:LaptopWeight	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| AMD Ryzen 5000 Series ^{(Zen 3)} U-series Ryzen 3, 5, 5 Pro, and 7	AMD SoC Platform Chipset	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Up to 36/40GB ^{(1x DDR4-3200 SODIMM plus 4/8GB soldered)}	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| AMD Radeon Graphics Ryzen 3: Vega 6 Ryzen 5: Vega 7 Ryzen 7: Vega 8	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Dual M.2 x4 slots	Realtek RTL8111GUS ^{Gigabit Ethernet} 802.11ac or ax Wi-Fi + Bluetooth 5.1 ^soldered		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| LED-backlit Full HD (1920x1080) TN or IPS panels	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| m(3) 45Wh or 57Wh options	Integrated 720p webcam with optional ThinkShutter Keyboard with 1.8 mm key travel

R14 Gen 4

The fourth generation of the ThinkPad R14, which utilizes the ThinkPad E14 Gen 4 framework, represents the final model in the R series to feature a keyboard offering a key travel distance of 1.8mm.

Model	Launch (China)	Dimensions ^{(width, depth, height)}	Minimum Weight	Processor	Chipset	Maximum Memory	Graphics	Storage Options	Connectivity	Audio	Display	Battery Capacity	Additional Features	Operating System
R14 Gen 4	April 2022	324 x 220 x 17.9 mm (12.76" x 8.66" x 0.7")	Template:LaptopWeight	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel’s 12th generation (Alder Lake) U/P series Core i3, i5, or i7 processors	Intel SoC Platform Chipset	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Up to 40GB ^{(1x DDR4-3200 SODIMM plus 8GB soldered)}	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Integrated Intel UHD Graphics or Iris Xe with optional NVIDIA GeForce M550 (2GB GDDR6)	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| One M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 and one M.2 PCIe 4.0 x4 slot	Intel® Ethernet Connection I219-V ^{Gigabit Ethernet} Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) + Bluetooth 5.1 soldered		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| LED-backlit Full HD (1920x1080) TN or IPS display options, with optional touchscreen	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| m(3) 45Wh or 57Wh batteries available	Built-in 720p webcam with optional ThinkShutter Includes one Thunderbolt 4 port Keyboard featuring a key travel of 1.8 mm	Windows 11 Pro

R14 Gen 5

The ThinkPad R14 Gen 5, derived from the ThinkPad E14 Gen 5, marks the series' initial shift to exclusively IPS panels and introduces a display option with a higher pixel density of 188.68 PPI, surpassing the R50p's 170.67 PPI; however, due to its larger dimensions, the R50p retains a greater total pixel count.

Model	Launch (China)	Size ^{(w, d, h)}	Minimum Weight ^(kg)	Processor	Chipset	Maximum RAM ^{(configuration)}	Graphics	Storage Options	Connectivity	Audio	Display	Battery Capacity	Additional Features	Operating System
R14 Gen 5	April 2023	313 x 219.3 x 17.99 mm (12.32" x 8.63" x 0.71")	Template:LaptopWeight	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel 13th generation ^{(Raptor Lake)} U/P/H series Core i3, i5, or i7	Intel SoC Platform Chipset	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Up to 40/48GB ^{(1x DDR4-3200 SODIMM + 8/16GB soldered)}	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel UHD Graphics or Iris Xe with Optional NVIDIA GeForce M550 ^{(2GB GDDR6)}	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| One M.2 3.0x4 slot, One M.2 4.0x4 slot	Intel® Ethernet Connection I219-V ^{Gigabit Ethernet} Wi-Fi 6 or 6E + Bluetooth 5.2 or 5.3 ^soldered		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| LED-backlit 1920x1200 (WUXGA) Touchscreen optional or 2240x1400 (WQHD) IPS panel	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| m(3) 47Wh 57Wh	Available with 720p or 1080p camera plus optional IR sensor Single Thunderbolt 4 port Keyboard with 1.5 mm key travel	Windows 11 Pro

R14 Gen 6

The sixth iteration of the ThinkPad R14, constructed on the E14 Gen 6 framework, reintroduces dual SODIMM memory slots for the first time since the Rx90 in 2018, allowing configurations up to 96GB of DDR5-5600 RAM. This generation is powered by Intel’s inaugural Meteor Lake U/H series Core Ultra processors and includes Intel Arc Graphics on selected H-series variants equipped with adequate memory.

Model	Launch (China)	Size ^{(w, d, h)}	Minimum Weight ^(kg)	Processor	Chipset	Maximum RAM ^{(configuration)}	Graphics Solutions	Storage Options	Connectivity	Audio	Display	Battery Capacity	Additional Features	Operating System
R14 Gen 6	March 2024	313 x 219.3 x 17.99 mm (12.32" x 8.63" x 0.71")	Template:LaptopWeight	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel first-generation ^{(Meteor Lake)} U/H series Core Ultra i5 or i7	Intel SoC Platform Chipset	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Up to 96GB ^{(2x DDR5-5600 SODIMM slots)}	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| Intel integrated Graphics or Intel Arc Graphics ^{[lower-alpha 3]}	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| One M.2 3.0x4 slot, One M.2 4.0x4 slot	Intel® Ethernet Connection I219-V or I219-LM ^{(vPro models only)} Gigabit Ethernet Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth versions 5.2 or 5.3 ^soldered		style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| LED-backlit display at either 1920x1200 (WUXGA) Touch option available or higher resolution 2240x1400 (WQHD) IPS panel	style="background:Template:LaptopPaletteColor;" \| m(3) 47Wh 57Wh	Camera options include 720p or Full HD with optional IR functionality One Thunderbolt 4 port included Keyboard featuring a key travel of 1.5 mm	Windows 11 Pro

References

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