For years, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon has been one of the best-rated laptops by Tom's Hardware and Laptop Magazine. This is because of the first-class keyboard, high-quality screen, and a price that makes it all worth considering. The newest version of the laptop, the 8th Generation, is out and it maintains the best parts of its predecessors.

While this is the 8th generation of the laptop, it doesn't use an 8th generation processor. Instead, it uses an Intel 10th Gen Comet Lake processor. The laptop has also upgraded its Wi-Fi to Wi-Fi 6, allowing for super-fast wireless connectivity when paired with a Wi-Fi 6 router or access point. The keyboard has also added a pair of VoIP function keys. Otherwise, the laptop is essentially identical to the previous 7th Generation model.

While the changes are small in quantity, they are large in importance, especially for a productivity laptop in our work at home environment. Faster connectivity and VoIP keys make our nearly daily Microsoft Teams calls clearer and easier to manage, while a newer and faster processor means that multitasking (likely on multiple screens) won't bog down the system. Plus, the newer processor makes for better battery life, which will be important once we're allowed to leave the house again.

The most exciting part of the new ThinkPad X1 Carbon is its build quality. During his demonstration, Avram comfortably held the laptop by the corner and spun it around without any fear for the computer. That's an important aspect of a laptop, as many of us hold them by the corner without realizing it, and it can cause damage to the computer. But, this one doesn't make any noises or creaks and doesn't feel like it is going to bend.

Tom's Hardware was impressed enough with the laptop that they gave it an Editor's Choice award. Check out the full review at Tom's Hardware.