Lenovo ThinkPad T480
It depends on the processor: 8th-gen models can run Windows 11 officially, older ones can’t.
Windows 11
Depends on processorSupported with an 8th-gen processor. Models with a 7th-gen i5-7200U or i5-7300U aren’t supported.
Linux
Runs wellLenovo doesn’t certify it for Linux, but mainstream distributions run on it. Try it from a live USB first to check Wi-Fi, sleep and the fingerprint reader before you install.
ChromeOS Flex
CertifiedCertified by Google, with ChromeOS Flex support until 2028.
Our recommendation
Check which processor yours has (Settings, then System, then About). If it’s 8th gen, upgrade to Windows 11 for free after running PC Health Check. If it’s 7th gen, enroll in Windows 10 Extended Security Updates to stay safe until October 12, 2027, then move to Linux Mint or ChromeOS Flex.
Tech specs
| Released | 2018 · Laptop |
|---|---|
| Processor | 8th gen: Intel Core i3-8130U, i5-8250U, i5-8350U, i7-8550U, i7-8650U. Some models: 7th gen Intel Core i5-7200U, i5-7300U |
| Generation | Intel 8th gen (some 7th gen) |
| Memory | 2 slots, DDR4-2400, up to 32 GB |
| Storage | One drive: either a 2.5-inch SATA drive or an M.2 2280 NVMe SSD. Some models can take a second M.2 NVMe SSD in place of the mobile broadband card |
| Security chip | TPM 2.0 (may be disabled in some regions) |
Upgrades worth making
An NVMe SSD and 16 GB of memory turn an 8th-gen T480 into a very capable everyday laptop.
Frequently asked questions
Can the Lenovo ThinkPad T480 run Windows 11?
It depends on the processor: 8th-gen models can run Windows 11 officially, older ones can’t. Supported with an 8th-gen processor. Models with a 7th-gen i5-7200U or i5-7300U aren’t supported.
Can the Lenovo ThinkPad T480 run Linux?
Runs well. Lenovo doesn’t certify it for Linux, but mainstream distributions run on it. Try it from a live USB first to check Wi-Fi, sleep and the fingerprint reader before you install.
Does ChromeOS Flex work on the Lenovo ThinkPad T480?
Certified by Google, with ChromeOS Flex support until 2028.
How much memory can the Lenovo ThinkPad T480 take?
2 slots, DDR4-2400, up to 32 GB.
What storage does the Lenovo ThinkPad T480 use?
One drive: either a 2.5-inch SATA drive or an M.2 2280 NVMe SSD. Some models can take a second M.2 NVMe SSD in place of the mobile broadband card.