Lenovo abandons magnesium frame in new ThinkPad P16 model

07:24 / 30.04.2026·116·Technology

In brief

Lenovo has made significant changes to the design of its flagship ThinkPad P16 Gen 3 workstation by eliminating the internal magnesium frame that has been a hallmark of the series since the ThinkPad T60 model in 2006. This shift marks the end of a long-standing tradition, as the magnesium frame has historically enhanced the laptop's durability for professional use in demanding environments. The new model features a design that integrates the additional magnesium frame around the screen directly into the main chassis, potentially simplifying production. Despite these changes, the ThinkPad P series remains among the most expensive devices, with the base version of the P16 Gen 3 starting at nearly $3,000 and high-end configurations reaching around $9,500.

Lenovo has changed the design of its flagship ThinkPad P16 Gen 3 workstation. The new model does not use the internal magnesium frame that ensured chassis rigidity. Ixbt.com reports.

With this change, the company has ended a long-standing tradition that began with the ThinkPad T60 model in 2006.

The magnesium frame had long been one of the key features of the ThinkPad P series. It enhanced the laptop's durability and helped withstand loads during daily professional use.

For mobile workstations, this is particularly important, as they are often used in demanding conditions.

Lenovo is now pursuing the path of reducing device thickness and dimensions. In the P16 Gen 3 model, the additional magnesium rim around the display has been replaced by a construction directly mounted to the main frame.

The company has not disclosed the exact reasons for this decision, but it may simplify manufacturing.

The ThinkPad P series remains among the most expensive devices. The base version of the P16 Gen 3 starts at approximately $3,000.

The highest configuration with Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX and Nvidia RTX Pro 5000 Blackwell is estimated at around $9,500.