The LG gram series is a line of premium, ultra-lightweight laptops known primarily for one defining feature: portability.
Since its launch, the series has carved out a niche for itself by proving that a laptop doesn’t have to be heavy or bulky to be powerful and durable. Here is a breakdown of what makes the LG gram unique, its pros and cons, and who it is for.
1. Key Features
- Extreme Lightness: The defining characteristic of the LG gram is its weight. Most models (even the 16-inch and 17-inch versions) weigh around 2.5 to 3.2 pounds (roughly 1.1kg to 1.45kg), which is remarkably light for laptops of that size.
- Build Material: Despite their lightness, they aren’t fragile. They are made from a magnesium alloy (often used in the aerospace industry), which provides a high degree of durability. They typically pass military-grade (MIL-STD-810H) testing for shock, dust, and temperature.
- Battery Life: LG consistently packs large-capacity batteries into the chassis. While real-world performance varies, they are widely recognized for being “all-day” laptops that can often handle 10–12+ hours of typical productivity work.
- Display Quality: LG is a leader in display technology. Most Grams feature high-resolution (WQXGA) IPS panels with an aspect ratio of 16:10, providing more vertical screen real estate, which is excellent for coding, writing, and multitasking.
- Port Selection: Unlike many other ultrabooks that force you to carry dongles, LG usually includes a robust port selection, including multiple USB-C (Thunderbolt 4) ports, USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and a microSD slot.
2. The Current Lineup
LG has expanded the “gram” brand into several sub-categories:
- LG gram (Standard): The classic, all-rounder available in 14, 15, 16, and 17-inch sizes.
- LG gram 2-in-1: A convertible model with a 360-degree hinge and touchscreen support (includes a stylus).
- LG gram Style: A more fashion-forward version with a glass design, a “hidden” haptic touchpad, and OLED displays.
- LG gram Pro: The high-performance version, often featuring discrete graphics (like the NVIDIA RTX 3050 or 4050) and enhanced cooling systems for creators.
3. Pros and Cons
The Pros:
- Best-in-class portability: You can carry a massive 17-inch screen in a backpack without feeling like you’re carrying a heavy brick.
- Productivity Powerhouse: The 16:10 aspect ratio and wide range of ports make it a dream for office work and travel.
- Minimalist Aesthetic: They have a clean, professional, and understated look.
- Durability: They handle travel stress better than most thin-and-light laptops.
The Cons:
- Chassis Flex: Because they are made of magnesium alloy and are so thin, there is often some “flex” in the lid and keyboard deck. This can make them feel a bit “plasticky” compared to a MacBook or a Dell XPS.
- Not for Gaming: While the “Pro” models exist, they are not primarily gaming laptops. Cooling is limited, and thermal throttling happens during heavy, sustained loads.
- Price: They are premium devices and are priced similarly to high-end rivals like the MacBook Air/Pro or the Dell XPS series.
- Keyboard Feel: The keys have relatively shallow travel, which some users find unsatisfying compared to a Lenovo ThinkPad.
4. Who is it for?
- Business Travelers: If you are constantly on the move and your back hurts from carrying a heavy laptop, the LG gram is arguably the best solution on the market.
- Students/Writers: The 16:10 screen is fantastic for reading and typing, and the battery life will easily get you through a day of classes.
- Remote Workers: If you need a big screen for spreadsheets or coding but want the flexibility to work from a coffee shop, the 16 or 17-inch gram is uniquely suited for you.
Summary
The LG gram is a specialized tool. It sacrifices the “luxury feel” of heavy aluminum (like a MacBook) to achieve a weight profile that no other manufacturer has successfully matched. If your priority is portability without sacrificing screen size, there is truly no better laptop series currently available.