The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5, launched in early 2023, targets professionals seeking practicality and affordability. In contrast, the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (2024) enters with premium ambition, offering top-tier performance and a sleek macOS ecosystem for creators and power users.
Display-wise, the MacBook Pro shines with a 14.2-inch Mini LED panel at 3024 x 1964 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 1000:1 contrast ratio—making it a treat for visual work. Meanwhile, the ThinkPad opts for a 14-inch IPS LCD with 1920 x 1200 resolution and 300 nits brightness, offering solid clarity under office lights thanks to its matte finish.
In performance, the MacBook's M3 chip outpaces the ThinkPad’s Intel i3 and i5 variants, especially in multitasking and GPU workloads. Apple’s integrated GPU delivers 5.1 TFLOPS, while the ThinkPad’s MX550 struggles to keep up in creative or graphical tasks. That said, both laptops handle daily productivity with ease.
RAM and storage on the MacBook are fixed (up to 24GB unified memory), while the ThinkPad allows upgrades up to 48GB RAM and 2TB SSD, offering flexibility for budget-conscious upgraders. Battery life leans in favor of the MacBook, with a 70Wh cell and more efficient chip, though Lenovo holds its own with solid 47Wh endurance.
Port-wise, both deliver Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1, but only the ThinkPad includes Ethernet and USB-A ports, which might win over corporate users. MacBook’s build feels sleeker with its glass touchpad and quieter fans, but the ThinkPad remains a durable, no-nonsense workhorse.
Who is it for?
Creative professionals, developers, and Apple ecosystem users who want top-tier visuals, battery, and power in a compact chassis will love the MacBook Pro. The ThinkPad suits students, office workers, and tinkerers who value upgradeability, practical ports, and Windows flexibility.
Who is it not for?
If you need gaming capabilities or dual-screen support, neither is ideal. The MacBook isn’t great for users needing legacy ports or OS flexibility, while the ThinkPad might feel sluggish for video editors or those wanting ultra-bright, color-accurate screens.
Click for Available Configurations of the Laptops
Here is a brief look at the main features of Apple MacBook Pro 14 M3, 2023 and Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 before getting into our more detailed comparison.
Let's read on the following sections in order to better understand in detail how MacBook Pro 14 M3, 2023 and ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 compares and decide which one is better for you.
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