Lenovo unveils ThinkPad x120e laptop with AMD APU

Lenovo is the first computer maker to introduce a commercial laptop running Advanced Micro Devices’ new E-series accelerated processing unit, which packs a CPU and graphics processor on the same die for higher performance.

The ThinkPad X120e, introduced Monday, is a business laptop with an 11.6-inch screen and a full-size keyboard. Marketed as an ultraportable PC, the notebook starts at less than three pounds and delivers more than six hours of battery life, according to Lenovo.

The X120e is the successor of the X100e, with a major difference in the processor. The older model used an AMD Athlon Neo, which will be replaced with a next-generation AMD E-series APU, codenamed Zacate.

Lenovo says the X120e offers 65% faster graphics performance for faster running of business applications and quicker Web searches and page loads. The laptop includes an HDMI output for projecting content on an external monitor or a TV screen.

The X120e is scheduled to be available in February, with prices starting at less than $400.  Lenovo also unveiled Monday the ThinkPad Edge E220s and the E420s, for business customers who need more power than the X120e. The E220s is 12.5 inches and weighs less than 3.5 pounds. The E420s is 14 inches and weighs four pounds. The E220s is less than an inch thick, while the E420s is slightly larger at an inch thick. Both laptops are available with Intel Core i3, i5 or i7 processors.

The laptops run Windows 7 and are available with solid-state drives for faster boot speeds. The PCs include Wi-Fi wireless connectivity, and 4G/WiMax are available as an option.

The E220s and E420s are targeted at small and midsize businesses and are scheduled to be available in April at a starting price of $899 and $749, respectively. Lenovo also plans to release in April less expensive E-series models. The E420 and E520 will start at $599.