The X300 offers the best connectivity features when compared with any other 13.3" machine that we’ve recently tested, and almost nothing is missing.

Three USB ports, Ethernet, etc.

On the left edge you find two USB ports (spaced apart from each other) and two catches for 3.5 mm plugs for a microphone and an output for headphones. The backend of the portable PC offers a third USB port, a RJ45 output (Ethernet gigabit), a VGA output and a plug for the power source. Also take note of the interrupter that allows you to disconnect all wireless communication devices (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or 3G). Finally the left side offers an optical drive (that can be swapped out for a battery) and a notch for a Kingston lock.

Inside the Laptop

If you turn the X300 over, you will find a space that permits easy access to the SSD (by removing a screw), the memory components, two MiniCard slots and a screw that holds the optical drive. The battery is easily removable. There are built-in slots that allow water to drain from the keyboard (more on this design element below). Finally underneath the battery you can find the SIM card slot.

The Flaws

Even if the X300 is well equipped, we found three drawbacks involving connectivity options. The first is the absence of FireWire for external hard drives connections. The second fault is that Lenovo offers a VGA output, but no DVI. Even if VGA is better for some applications (such as for projector connections), it is an old interface and is almost dead. The last flaw is the absence of an Express-Card. This interface is good for accommodating aSATA cards or FireWire, for example. Unfortunately this format is essentially used for HSDPA cards and the X300 already has this built-in.