Lenovo Introduces ThinkPad X301 With 128 GB SSD

Not to let Apple carry on unchallenged in the super-ultra-portable notebook segment, Lenovo today quietly announced the next evolution of its X300 notebook — the X301.

Called the X301, the notebook retains its predecessor’s thin and light form starting at less than three pounds, one-inch thin and 13.3-inch LED backlit display. Lenovo likes to call it the “thinnest and lightest full-function notebook in its class,” which even if contested, still means the X301 is among the very best for travelers.

Those seeking for better battery performance for computing away from the socket will find a lot to like. The X301 will make use of the latest Intel Core 2 Duo ultra low voltage processors at 1.2 GHz (U9300) and 1.4GHz (U9400).

Another big aid to battery life is the introduction of decently sized solid-state drives. Both 65 GB and 128 GB SSDs will be available for order in September.

“Lenovo continues to push the technology envelope by giving road warriors the latest enhancements in solid state drive storage and digital display technologies with the new ThinkPad X301 notebook PC,” said Sam Dusi, vice president, worldwide notebook product marketing, at Lenovo. “This announcement extends our commitment to blending ultra-portability and functionality, and equipping today’s business users with the most advanced, highest-performing computing tools.”

Also new to the X301 is support for DisplayPort, which Lenovo hopes to market its virtues alongside the ultra-thin DVD burner as a media solution. With support for both DisplayPort and VGA, users can utilize multiple displays.

For those who must stay connected wirelessly, Lenovo offers “improved uplink performance by up to 250 percent” when compared to previous models with AT&T mobile broadband. Models supporting WiMAX will be available later this year.

Select X301 models will even prevent their users from getting lost with built-in GPS hardware, though it is unknown which software package will be called upon for navigation.

Pricing for models of the ThinkPad X301 notebook starts at approximately $2,599 and will be available on August 26.