Lenovo ThinkPad T480 Price in Nigeria: UK Used Prices, Best Configs, and Buyer Checklist (January 2026)

I bought my first UK used ThinkPad T480 from a vendor in Computer Village in 2023 for ₦195,000. It was an i5-8250U with 8GB RAM and a 256GB SSD. The keyboard felt incredible compared to my old HP, but I made one costly mistake: I did not check the battery health. Turns out, the internal battery was at 34% capacity, and the external battery was completely dead. Within two months, I was shopping for replacement batteries that cost me an extra ₦45,000.

That experience taught me everything I now know about buying UK used ThinkPads in Nigeria. Learn from my mistake.

If you are searching for the Lenovo ThinkPad T480 price in Nigeria, you are probably a developer, remote worker, student, or someone who wants a reliable laptop that will not die on you after six months. The T480 is a legend for a reason: it has the best keyboard in its class, a dual battery system that is perfect for Nigeria’s power situation, and build quality that survives years of daily use.

This guide covers current prices for different configurations, where to buy, what to check before paying, and whether the T480 is actually right for your specific use case.

How Much Is Lenovo T480 in Nigeria? (January 2026 Prices)

The Lenovo ThinkPad T480 price in Nigeria for UK used units currently ranges from ₦205,000 to ₦320,000 depending on configuration and condition.

According to a Nairaland listing from January 12, 2026, clean ThinkPad T480 units are available starting at ₦205,000. According to Sales366, a Nigerian tech retailer, a Lenovo T480 ThinkPad Core i5-8th Generation with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD sells for ₦280,000.

Here is the current price breakdown by source based on market surveys from Computer Village (December 2025) and online listings checked in January 2026:

Source	Price Range	Notes
Nairaland sellers	₦205,000 – ₦290,000	Cheapest option, verify seller
Jiji direct sellers	₦240,000 – ₦290,000	Large selection, inspect carefully
Computer Village (Ikeja)	₦250,000 – ₦300,000	Physical inspection possible
Sales366	₦280,000+	Same-day Lagos delivery
Samstecks	₦280,000+	3-month warranty, battery guarantee
Jumia (Refurbished)	₦320,000 – ₦380,000	Higher prices, platform fees included

Important note on Jumia pricing: According to the Vibena coding laptops guide, Jumia prices are typically 30-50% higher than Computer Village for equivalent specs. For example, a 16GB/512GB HP EliteBook 840 G6 lists on Jumia for ₦475,000, while a similar unit can be negotiated for much less in Ikeja. This premium covers Jumia’s platform fees, logistics, and return policy.

What affects the price:

• Processor (i5 vs i7): ₦30,000 – ₦50,000 difference
• RAM (8GB vs 16GB): ₦20,000 – ₦40,000 difference
• Screen type (HD TN vs FHD IPS): ₦15,000 – ₦30,000 difference
• Battery health: Dead batteries can mean ₦25,000 – ₦45,000 extra cost

What Is the Original Price of the Lenovo T480?

When the ThinkPad T480 launched in 2018, the original retail price started at approximately $1,050 USD according to MobileTechReview. Higher-spec models with i7 processors, more RAM, and larger SSDs reached $1,500 to $2,000 USD.

Today, brand new T480 units are extremely rare and only available through import retailers at significantly inflated prices. For context, Ubuy Nigeria lists a new i7/16GB/512GB T480 at over ₦3,344,000, which is not practical for most buyers.

This is why UK used units at ₦205,000 to ₦320,000 represent excellent value. You are getting a laptop that originally cost over $1,000 USD for a fraction of that price, and the T480’s build quality means these machines still have years of useful life remaining.

How Old Is the Lenovo ThinkPad T480?

The ThinkPad T480 was released in 2018, making it approximately 7-8 years old as of January 2026. According to Samstecks, it is a “2018 Model ThinkPad.”

However, age alone does not tell the full story.

Why a 2018 laptop is still relevant:

The 8th Gen Intel Core processors (i5-8250U, i7-8650U) were a major leap, offering 4 cores and 8 threads compared to the 2 cores in 7th Gen chips. According to testing data from the Vibena coding laptop guide, the T480 is nearly 2x faster at building apps than the older T470. If you compile code 50 times a day, the T470 would waste 20 minutes of your time daily compared to the T480.

The dual battery system remains unique and valuable for Nigerian power conditions. The build quality means many units still function perfectly after years of use. And the upgradeability (RAM, SSD, battery) extends useful life significantly.

What to watch for on older units:

• Battery degradation (most common issue)
• Thermal paste may need replacement after 5+ years
• Screen backlights may dim slightly over time
• Keyboard wear on heavily used units

According to multiple comparison guides, ThinkPads regularly last 5-7 years with proper care, and many T480 units still have several years of productive use remaining.

Lenovo ThinkPad T480 Price by Configuration

Based on current market research from Computer Village, Jiji listings, Nairaland, and online stores as of January 2026, here are the price ranges by configuration:

Configuration	Price Range (₦)	Where to Find
i5-8250U / 8GB RAM / 256GB SSD	₦205,000 – ₦250,000	Jiji, Nairaland sellers
i5-8350U / 8GB RAM / 256GB SSD	₦240,000 – ₦280,000	Computer Village, Sales366
i5 / 16GB RAM / 256GB SSD	₦270,000 – ₦320,000	Computer Village, Online stores
i7-8550U / 8GB RAM / 256GB SSD	₦280,000 – ₦330,000	Computer Village
i7-8650U / 16GB RAM / 512GB SSD	₦320,000 – ₦380,000	Premium sellers, Jumia
Any config with MX150 GPU	Add ₦30,000 – ₦50,000	Rare in Nigeria, premium pricing

Why UK Used Prices Vary So Much

The ₦175,000 price difference between the cheapest and most expensive T480 might seem confusing, but it makes sense when you understand what you are actually buying:

Condition grades matter: A Grade A unit (minimal scratches, perfect screen, healthy batteries) costs significantly more than a Grade C unit (visible wear, screen marks, tired batteries).

Configuration is everything: An i5 with 8GB RAM is a completely different laptop from an i7 with 16GB RAM for daily use. The i7/16GB combo handles heavy multitasking without breaking a sweat.

Screen type is often hidden: Many sellers do not specify whether the screen is HD TN (terrible) or FHD IPS (good). Always ask or inspect.

Battery health is the wildcard: A T480 with two healthy batteries is worth ₦40,000 more than one with dead batteries, but sellers often do not mention this.

My advice? Budget for a mid-range unit (around ₦260,000 to ₦300,000) rather than the cheapest you can find. The extra money usually means better condition and fewer hidden problems.

Where to Buy ThinkPad T480 in Nigeria

Based on my experience and price comparisons, here are your main options:

Source	Price Range	Pros	Cons
Jiji.ng	₦240,000 – ₦290,000	Largest selection, can negotiate	Cannot inspect before paying (usually), scam risk
Computer Village (Lagos)	₦250,000 – ₦300,000	Physical inspection, immediate purchase	Slightly higher prices, Lagos-only
Sales366	₦280,000+	Same-day Lagos delivery, verified stock	Premium pricing
Samstecks	₦280,000+	3-month warranty, battery guarantee, 7-day returns	Higher prices, limited stock
Nairaland sellers	₦205,000 – ₦290,000	Often cheapest prices	Variable quality, must vet seller
Obejor Computers	₦540,000+	High refurbishment standards	Premium pricing
Jumia (Refurbished)	₦320,000 – ₦380,000	Return policy	30-50% higher than Computer Village

Jiji.ng: Largest Selection, Highest Risk

Jiji has the most ThinkPad T480 listings in Nigeria by far. You can find deals as low as ₦240,000, but you need to be careful:

• Always check seller ratings and reviews
• Request detailed photos of the specific unit (not stock images)
• Ask for battery health screenshot
• Insist on video call inspection if possible
• Meet in public places for Lagos transactions
• Use Jiji’s payment protection when available

I have bought two laptops from Jiji. One was perfect. The other had a cracked hinge that the photos did not show. Always inspect thoroughly.

Computer Village, Lagos: Best for Physical Inspection

If you are in Lagos, Computer Village in Ikeja remains the best place to buy UK used laptops. You can:

• Test the laptop before paying
• Check battery health in person
• Negotiate prices face-to-face
• Compare multiple units side by side

The downside? Prices are typically ₦20,000 to ₦40,000 higher than Jiji direct sellers. But I think the peace of mind is worth it, especially for first-time buyers.

According to Obejor Computers, their UK used ThinkPad T480 Core i5/8GB/256GB units are priced at ₦540,000 (discounted from ₦590,000). This is significantly above the market average of ₦205,000 to ₦320,000 from other sources.

Note on premium retailer pricing: Some retailers like Obejor Computers price T480 units at ₦540,000+, significantly above the UK used market average. According to their listing, these prices reflect additional features like “refurbished to high UK standards” with verified FHD IPS displays and 1-year implied quality assurance. For budget-conscious buyers, Nairaland (₦205,000+), Sales366 (₦280,000), and Computer Village (₦250,000-₦300,000) offer better value for equivalent specifications.

Head to shops around the ICT section. Tell them you want a ThinkPad T480, specify your budget, and they will show you available units. Do not buy from the first shop. Check at least three vendors before deciding.

Retailer Warranty Options: What Nigerian Sellers Offer

Not all UK used laptop sellers are created equal. Some Nigerian retailers now offer structured buyer protection that can save you significant money if issues arise.

According to Samstecks, their UK used ThinkPads come with:

• 3-Month Warranty: Covers technical faults with free repair including warranty-covered parts
• Battery Life Guarantee: Minimum battery health capacity guaranteed
• 7-Day Try-at-Home Guarantee: Test the laptop at home and request a swap if it is not right for you
• Full Refund Guarantee: If the laptop does not match specifications, you get your money back

These protections typically add ₦10,000 to ₦30,000 to the base price compared to Jiji or Nairaland direct sellers, but can save significant money if issues arise after purchase.

My take: If you are not confident inspecting laptops yourself, paying extra for retailer warranty is worth it. I learned this lesson the hard way with my dead battery situation.

For those setting up a workspace, check out our guide on how to set up a home office in a bedroom for tips on creating a productive environment.

UK Used ThinkPad T480: What to Check Before Paying

This checklist has saved me from bad purchases multiple times. Do not skip any step.

Important: Do not confuse the T480 with the T480s. According to comparison videos and the Tom’s Guide forum, the T480s is the slim version with critical differences:

Feature	T480 (Standard)	T480s (Slim)
Battery	Removable, hot-swappable	Built-in, non-removable
RAM Slots	2 slots (up to 32GB)	1 slot + soldered (max 24GB)
Weight	1.58kg	~0.4kg lighter
Upgradeability	Excellent	Limited

According to the YouTube comparison, on the T480 “the battery is removable… you can remove the battery from this point” while on the T480s “the battery is inbuilt.” Always verify you are buying the standard T480 if battery flexibility and full upgradeability matter to you.

Understanding UK Used Condition Grades

When sellers describe their laptops, they often use condition grades. Here is what they typically mean:

Grade	Screen	Body	What to Expect
Grade A (Excellent)	Perfect, no scratches	Micro-scratches only visible under close inspection	Looks nearly new, premium pricing
Grade B (Good)	Minor marks possible	Light visible wear, small scratches	Fully functional, moderate pricing
Grade C (Fair)	May have pressure marks	Noticeable cosmetic wear, scratches visible	Budget option, works fine

According to Newegg’s grading system, Grade A refers to “like new” condition. When buying from Jiji or Nairaland, always ask the seller which grade the unit falls into and request photos that show any wear clearly.

Battery Health (Critical for Nigeria)

The T480’s dual battery system is its biggest advantage for Nigerian users dealing with power outages. But UK used units often have degraded batteries.

How to check:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
2. Type powercfg /batteryreport and press Enter
3. Open the generated HTML file
4. Look for “Design Capacity” vs “Full Charge Capacity”

If Full Charge Capacity is less than 60% of Design Capacity, the battery needs replacement. Factor ₦25,000 to ₦45,000 for battery replacement into your budget.

The T480 has two batteries: an internal 24Wh and an external that can be hot-swapped. According to the Techaeris review, the ThinkPad T480 features a removable battery coupled with an internal battery, something lacking in most laptops these days, allowing you to carry a spare in case you need to swap out while on the road.

Check both batteries. The external battery is easier and cheaper to replace.

Screen Quality and Type

This is where many buyers get burned. According to the official Lenovo PSREF specifications, the T480 came with multiple screen options:

• HD TN (1366×768) 220 nits: Terrible viewing angles, washed-out colors. Avoid if possible.
• FHD IPS (1920×1080) 250 nits: Good colors, wide viewing angles. This is what you want.
• WQHD IPS (2560×1440) 300 nits, 72% gamut: Best option, rare in UK used market.
• FHD IPS Touch: Same as FHD but touchscreen. Slightly heavier.

Many sellers do not specify screen type. Always ask: “Is this HD or Full HD? TN or IPS?”

To check yourself:

• Look at the screen from an angle. If colors wash out dramatically, it is TN.
• Check display settings for resolution. 1366×768 means HD. 1920×1080 means Full HD.

I made the mistake of buying an HD TN screen unit once because the price was good. I regretted it within a week. The screen was so bad I could not work comfortably. Ended up spending ₦35,000 on a screen replacement.

Keyboard Condition

ThinkPads are famous for their keyboards. According to the Techaeris review, the T480 features a 6-row, spill-resistant keyboard with multimedia Fn keys and optional LED backlight.

Check:

• Are any keys sticky or unresponsive?
• Is the backlight working (if it has one)?
• Are the key legends (letters) worn off?
• Does the TrackPoint (red nub) work smoothly?

Light wear is acceptable. Missing keys or non-functional keys are dealbreakers.

Port Testing

Test every single port. According to the Lenovo PSREF, the T480 has:

• 2x USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type-A)
• 1x USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 (with Power Delivery and DisplayPort)
• 1x USB-C Gen 2 / Thunderbolt 3 (with Power Delivery and DisplayPort)
• HDMI 1.4b
• Ethernet (RJ-45)
• 4-in-1 media card reader (MMC, SD, SDHC, SDXC)
• Headphone/microphone combo jack
• Optional smart card reader

One dead USB port might seem minor, but it limits your options significantly.

BIOS Lock Check

Some UK used laptops come with BIOS passwords from previous corporate owners. This can prevent you from:

• Reinstalling Windows
• Changing boot settings
• Accessing BIOS settings

Ask the seller to boot into BIOS (usually F1 or F2 during startup). If it asks for a password, walk away unless the seller can remove it.

Windows Activation Status

Check if Windows is genuinely activated:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation
2. Look for “Windows is activated with a digital license”

Unactivated Windows works but has limitations and will nag you constantly. Not a dealbreaker, but factor in ₦5,000 to ₦15,000 for a legitimate license if needed.

Is the T480 a Good Laptop?

Yes, the ThinkPad T480 remains an excellent laptop for productivity work, programming, and remote work in 2026. Here is why it is still recommended:

Performance Data from Real Testing

According to testing data from the Vibena coding laptop guide:

Metric	ThinkPad T480	What This Means
VS Code Startup	3.5 seconds	Fast IDE performance
React Compilation (npm run build)	18 seconds	Handles modern web development
Battery Drain (per hour of coding)	12% (with dual battery)	8+ hours of coding time

For comparison, the older ThinkPad T470 takes 5.8 seconds for VS Code startup and 45 seconds for React compilation. The 8th Gen quad-core processors in the T480 are nearly 2x faster at building apps.

What Makes the T480 Good

Legendary keyboard: ThinkPads have the best laptop keyboards in the industry. According to Lenovo PSREF, the T480 has 1.8mm key travel and a spill-resistant design. Deep key travel and excellent tactile feedback make all-day typing comfortable.

Dual battery system: According to Samstecks, you can get up to 9 hours of internet surfing. The hot-swappable external battery is perfect for Nigeria’s power situation. Carry a spare battery and swap without shutting down. According to the Vibena guide, the T480 wins the battery comparison easily because of its dual-battery system. Even if one battery is weak (common in used laptops), the second one keeps you going during NEPA outages.

Build quality: According to the Techaeris review, the ThinkPad T480 is MIL-STD 810G tested against 12 military-grade and 200 in-house durability tests. The testing includes humidity, low/high temperature, sand, high vibration, mechanical shock, high altitude, and temperature shock testing. As such, you can be assured that this portable notepad should survive whatever accidents you may encounter in day to day use.

Upgradeability: Unlike modern laptops with soldered components, the T480 allows easy upgrades to RAM (2 slots), storage (dual drive capable), and batteries.

Port selection: Full-size USB-A ports, USB-C with Thunderbolt 3, HDMI, Ethernet, and SD card slot. No dongles needed for most tasks.

Where the T480 Shows Its Age

• Screen brightness (~250 nits on FHD model) is adequate but not impressive
• Integrated graphics (Intel UHD 620) limits gaming and heavy creative work
• 720p webcam is mediocre for video calls
• No Wi-Fi 6 (though this rarely matters in Nigeria)

According to the Techaeris review, video editing was not too bad, although the export portion of the process did take a bit longer considering the specifications of the laptop due to the integrated Intel 620 graphics card. There is a discrete 2GB NVIDIA MX150 graphics option available if you plan on doing more video editing or need the graphics power.

Bottom line: For coding, remote work, office productivity, and general use, the T480 punches well above its price point. It is not suitable for gaming, heavy video editing, or color-critical design work.

Is the ThinkPad Better or HP?

This is one of the most common questions Nigerian laptop buyers ask. Based on extensive comparisons, here is the honest answer:

ThinkPad wins for:

• Keyboard quality (universally better)
• Battery life (T480’s dual battery vs single battery on HP)
• Durability (5-7 year lifespan with proper care)
• Business/professional use
• Repairability and upgradeability

HP wins for:

• Premium design aesthetics (Spectre line)
• Display brightness on high-end models (HP EliteBook 840 G6 offers ~400 nits optional)
• Gaming (Omen series)

Specific comparison from the Vibena guide: ThinkPad T480 vs HP EliteBook 840 G6

Feature	ThinkPad T480	HP EliteBook 840 G6
Battery System	Dual (hot-swappable)	Single
Max RAM	32GB (2 slots)	32GB
Battery Drain/Hour	12%	22%
Screen Brightness	~250 nits	~400 nits (optional)
VS Code Startup	3.5 seconds	3.2 seconds
UK Used Price	₦250k – ₦320k	₦280k – ₦350k

For Nigerian buyers, the ThinkPad T480’s dual battery system is a significant advantage over any HP equivalent. When NEPA takes light and your inverter is running low, that extra battery capacity matters.

My recommendation: If you prioritize reliability, keyboard comfort, and battery life, choose ThinkPad. If you need a brighter display or prefer a sleeker design, consider HP EliteBook. For pure value in Nigeria’s UK used market, the ThinkPad T480 offers more features per naira.

What Is the ThinkPad T480 Best For? (Nigeria Use Cases)

Not every laptop is right for every use case. Here is my honest assessment of what the T480 handles well and where it struggles:

Use Case	Good Choice?	Recommended Config	Why It Works	Why It Might Not
Coding / Web Development	✅ Yes	i5 + 16GB RAM + 256GB SSD	4-core/8-thread handles VS Code, browsers, local servers; legendary keyboard for typing	Avoid if running heavy Docker + multiple VMs simultaneously
Remote Work (Zoom + Docs + Browsing)	✅ Yes	i5 + 8-16GB RAM + SSD	Reliable workhorse; dual battery excellent for Nigeria power outages	Some UK used units have poor 720p webcams
Trading (Multi-chart + External Monitors)	✅ Yes	i5 + 16GB RAM + SSD	Supports up to 3 independent displays according to Lenovo PSREF; stable for charting apps	Do not buy 8GB RAM version; trading apps are memory hungry
Graphic Design (Photoshop, Illustrator, Canva)	⚠️ Depends	i5 + 16GB RAM + SSD + FHD IPS screen	Works for light-moderate design work with good display	Many UK used units have poor TN screens; color accuracy varies
Basic Video Editing (CapCut, basic Premiere)	⚠️ Depends	i7 + 16GB RAM + SSD (MX150 if possible)	MX150 GPU variant faster for renders than integrated graphics	Not a true creator laptop; struggles with 4K timelines
Heavy 3D Work (Blender, After Effects)	❌ No	—	—	CPU and GPU too weak; thermal throttling under sustained load
Gaming	❌ No	—	—	Even MX150 is entry-level; integrated graphics very limited

My Rule of Thumb

If you are a developer, remote worker, or trader: Buy the i5 + 16GB + SSD configuration. The i7 offers marginal improvement for significantly more money. Put that money toward a good external monitor instead.

If you do graphic design: Screen quality matters more than processor. Insist on FHD IPS display (250 nits minimum) or budget for a screen replacement. An i5 with a great screen beats an i7 with a terrible screen for design work.

If you do video editing: The T480 can handle basic editing, but be realistic. According to the Techaeris review, even the MX150 GPU variant is entry-level. For serious Premiere or DaVinci Resolve work, you need a different laptop. The T480 is a productivity machine, not a creator machine.

For programmers specifically, the ThinkPad T480 is one of our top recommendations. See our full guide on best budget laptops for coding in Nigeria for more options.

What Is the Best Lenovo Laptop for 2025/2026?

While the T480 remains excellent value, here is how it compares to other Lenovo options by category based on current UK used prices in Nigeria:

Best Value (UK Used): ThinkPad T480

• Still the sweet spot for price-to-performance
• Dual battery system unique at this price
• ₦205,000 – ₦320,000

Best Budget Option: ThinkPad T470 or L480

• T470: ₦170,000 – ₦230,000 (7th Gen, dual battery like T480 but slower)
• L480: ₦220,000 – ₦260,000 (8th Gen, single battery, plastic body)

According to the Vibena guide, the L480 offers T480 performance for ₦30k less, but has a fully plastic body.

Best Portable: ThinkPad X280

• 12.5-inch, only 1.1 kg
• ₦200,000 – ₦280,000
• Warning: According to the Vibena guide, RAM is SOLDERED and cannot be upgraded. Buy 16GB model only!

For most Nigerian professionals buying UK used laptops in 2026, the T480 remains the best overall choice. If budget is extremely tight, the T470 offers similar build quality with slower 7th Gen processors.

ThinkPad T480 vs T490: Which Should You Buy in Nigeria?

This question comes up constantly, so let me break it down:

Feature	ThinkPad T480	ThinkPad T490
Processor	Up to i7-8650U (4C/8T)	Up to i7-8565U (slightly faster)
Max RAM	32GB (2 slots, both upgradeable)	32GB (1 slot soldered + 1 slot)
GPU Options	Intel UHD 620 / MX150	Intel UHD 620 / MX250
Battery	Dual battery (up to 29 hours per Lenovo)	Single ~50Wh
Weight	Starting at 1.58kg	Starting at ~1.44kg
SD Card	Full-size SD slot	MicroSD only
UK Used Price (Nigeria)	₦205k – ₦320k	₦320k – ₦450k+

The T490 wins in most categories: lighter weight, thinner design, slightly newer internals. However, the T480 has one massive advantage that matters hugely for Nigerian users: battery flexibility.

The T480’s dual battery system delivers significantly longer runtime and the external battery is hot-swappable. You can carry a spare charged battery and swap it without shutting down. The T490 does not offer this flexibility.

Additionally, the T480 has two fully upgradeable RAM slots, while the T490 has one slot soldered to the motherboard, limiting upgrade options.

My recommendation: Buy the T480 if battery life and upgrade flexibility matter to you (which they should in Nigeria). Buy the T490 only if you need the lighter weight and do not mind single battery.

The T490 typically costs ₦100,000+ more than equivalent T480 configurations. That money is often better spent on accessories like an external monitor or a quality power bank.

Speaking of power solutions, if you work from home and deal with frequent outages, check out our guide on how to stay focused during power outages.

Best ThinkPad T480 Config for Remote Work in Nigeria

If you work remotely from Nigeria, whether freelancing, working for a foreign company, or running your own business, here is my recommended configuration:

Ideal Remote Work Config:

• Intel Core i5-8350U or i5-8250U (i7 is overkill for office work)
• 16GB RAM (8GB will frustrate you with multiple Chrome tabs)
• 256GB or 512GB SSD
• FHD IPS display (not HD TN)
• Healthy dual batteries (check before buying)

Budget: ₦260,000 – ₦320,000

Why This Matters for Remote Workers

Battery is your backup power: When NEPA takes light and your inverter is low, a T480 with healthy batteries gives you 6+ hours to finish that urgent deliverable. According to testing data, the T480 only drains 12% battery per hour during typical coding and productivity work. I have saved multiple deadlines this way.

External monitor support: According to Lenovo PSREF, the T480 supports up to 3 independent displays through its ports. Maximum resolution is 4096×2304@60Hz via USB-C and 4096×2160@30Hz via HDMI. This is essential for productivity.

Webcam consideration: The built-in 720p webcam is adequate but not great. If you are on video calls daily, budget for an external webcam (₦15,000 to ₦30,000) for better quality.

Internet reliability: A laptop is only as good as your internet. If you are considering Starlink or other internet options for remote work, we have covered that extensively in our remote work in Nigeria essential gadgets guide.

Common ThinkPad T480 Problems to Watch For (UK Used Units)

After years of buying and recommending UK used ThinkPads, these are the issues I see most often:

Battery Degradation

The most common problem by far. Most UK used T480 units are 5+ years old now, and lithium batteries degrade over time. Expect:

• Internal battery: Often at 40-60% capacity
• External battery: Sometimes completely dead

Solution: Budget ₦25,000 to ₦45,000 for battery replacement if needed. Internal batteries require some disassembly; external batteries are user-replaceable.

Screen Quality Lottery

As mentioned earlier, many T480 units have the cheap HD TN screen that Lenovo offered as a cost-saving option. According to Lenovo PSREF, the HD screen is only 220 nits with a 400:1 contrast ratio, while the FHD IPS is 250 nits with 700:1 contrast and 170° viewing angle. These screens have:

• Low resolution (1366×768)
• Terrible viewing angles
• Washed-out colors
• Eye strain during long use

Solution: Always verify screen type before buying. If you accidentally buy a TN screen unit, replacement screens cost ₦35,000 to ₦50,000 including installation.

Webcam Quality Issues

The T480’s 720p webcam was mediocre even when new. On UK used units, the camera quality can be:

• Grainy and low-light performance is poor
• ThinkShutter (privacy cover) sometimes gets stuck
• Microphone quality varies

According to the Techaeris review, the T480 has a HD 720p camera with ThinkShutter camera privacy filter.

Solution: For important video calls, invest in an external webcam. Logitech C270 or similar costs around ₦15,000 to ₦25,000 in Nigeria.

Thermal Paste Needs Replacement

After 5+ years of use, the thermal paste between the CPU and heatsink dries out. This causes:

• Higher temperatures
• Fan running constantly
• Thermal throttling under load

Solution: If your T480 runs hot or the fan never stops, consider thermal paste replacement. Most Computer Village technicians charge ₦5,000 to ₦10,000 for this service.

How to Upgrade Your ThinkPad T480 After Purchase

One of the T480’s best features is upgradeability. Here is what you can upgrade yourself:

RAM Upgrade

The T480 has 2 SO-DIMM slots accessible from the bottom panel. According to the official Lenovo PSREF, the T480 supports “32GB max / 2400MHz DDR4, dual-channel capable, two DDR4 SO-DIMM sockets.”

According to the MobileTechReview video, the laptop has 2 RAM slots for a max 32GB DDR4 RAM.

Important RAM clarification: The officially validated maximum is 32GB (2x16GB DDR4 2400MHz). Some online sources claim 64GB support (the Vibena guide lists 64GB), but Lenovo’s official documentation and MobileTechReview confirm 32GB. For reliability and guaranteed compatibility, plan around 32GB maximum when budgeting for upgrades.

RAM prices in Nigeria (January 2026):

• 8GB DDR4 SO-DIMM: ₦15,000 – ₦25,000
• 16GB DDR4 SO-DIMM: ₦30,000 – ₦45,000

If you buy an 8GB unit, budget an extra ₦30,000 to ₦45,000 to upgrade to 16GB (adding another 8GB stick) or ₦60,000 to ₦90,000 for 32GB (2x16GB).

SSD Upgrade

According to Lenovo PSREF, the T480 has flexible storage options:

• M.2 2280 slot: For fast NVMe PCIe SSDs (PCIe 3.0 x 4)
• 2.5″ SATA bay: For traditional SATA SSDs or HDDs (7mm high)

The system has one HDD slot or one M.2 2280 slot exclusively for storage, meaning you choose one or the other, not both simultaneously in most configurations.

According to the Lenovo datasheet, the T480 supports up to 2TB of storage space.

SSD prices in Nigeria:

• 256GB NVMe: ₦25,000 – ₦35,000
• 512GB NVMe: ₦40,000 – ₦55,000
• 1TB NVMe: ₦70,000 – ₦100,000

Battery Replacement

External battery: User-replaceable. Just slide the latch and swap. Replacement 24Wh batteries cost ₦20,000 – ₦30,000. Extended 48Wh or 72Wh batteries cost ₦35,000 – ₦50,000 but add significant weight and runtime.

Internal battery: Requires opening the laptop. The 24Wh internal battery costs ₦25,000 – ₦40,000 including installation at Computer Village.

Where to Buy Upgrade Parts in Nigeria

• Computer Village (Lagos): Best for in-person purchase and installation
• Jiji.ng: Often cheaper, but verify seller ratings
• AliExpress: Cheapest, but 3-6 week shipping and customs risk

If you are managing your tech budget carefully, our guide on cost of living in Lagos Nigeria helps put these expenses in perspective.

ThinkPad T480 Full Specifications

For reference, here are the complete specifications based on the official Lenovo PSREF documentation:

Specification	Details
Processor Options (7th Gen)	i5-7200U, i5-7300U (2 cores / 4 threads)
Processor Options (8th Gen)	i3-8130U, i5-8250U, i5-8350U, i7-8550U, i7-8650U (4 cores / 8 threads for i5/i7)
RAM	4GB to 32GB DDR4 2400MHz
RAM Slots	2x DDR4 SO-DIMM sockets, dual-channel capable
Display Options	14″ HD (1366×768) 220 nits TN; FHD (1920×1080) 250 nits IPS; WQHD (2560×1440) 300 nits IPS 72% gamut
Touchscreen	Optional on FHD model, supports 10-finger gestures
Graphics	Intel HD 620 (7th Gen) or Intel UHD 620 (8th Gen); Optional NVIDIA GeForce MX150 2GB GDDR5 (i7 models in EMEA only)
Storage	M.2 NVMe SSD (PCIe 3.0 x 4) or 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSD; Optional Intel Optane memory
Max Storage	Up to 2TB
Battery Options	24Wh internal + 24Wh/48Wh/72Wh external (PowerBridge technology)
Max Battery Life	Up to 29 hours (MobileMark 2014, with 24Wh + 72Wh config)
Ports	2x USB 3.1 Gen 1, 1x USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 (PD+DP), 1x USB-C Gen 2/Thunderbolt 3 (PD+DP), HDMI 1.4b, Ethernet RJ-45, 4-in-1 card reader, headphone/mic combo, optional smart card reader
Max External Displays	3 independent displays; Max resolution: 4096×2304@60Hz (USB-C), 4096×2160@30Hz (HDMI)
Wireless	Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265, Wi-Fi 802.11ac 2×2, Bluetooth 4.1
WWAN	Optional 4G LTE (EMEA only)
Security	Discrete TPM 2.0, optional touch fingerprint reader (match-on-chip), ThinkShutter webcam cover, optional NFC
Keyboard	6-row, spill-resistant, multimedia Fn keys, optional LED backlight
Audio	Realtek ALC3287 codec, 2W x 2 stereo speakers, Dolby Audio Premium, dual array microphones
Dimensions	336.6mm x 232.5mm x 19.95mm (13.25″ x 9.15″ x 0.79″)
Weight	Starting at 1.58kg / 3.49 lbs (varies by battery config)
Build	Display cover: Magnesium Hybrid or PPS; Bottom: Glass-Fiber Reinforced Plastic
MIL-SPEC Testing	MIL-STD-810G certified (12 military-grade tests, 200 in-house durability tests)
Original Launch Price	Starting at $1,050 USD (2018)

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After all this analysis, here is my straightforward advice:

If you have ₦200,000 to ₦250,000: Hunt for a clean i5/8GB/256GB unit on Jiji or Nairaland. Be prepared to upgrade RAM later. Check battery health carefully since cheaper units often have degraded batteries.

If you have ₦260,000 to ₦320,000: This is the sweet spot. Get an i5/16GB/256GB unit from Computer Village or a reputable online seller like Sales366 or Samstecks. Insist on FHD IPS screen and verify battery health. This configuration handles virtually everything except heavy creative work.

If you have ₦320,000+: You can afford the higher-spec i7/16GB/512GB models, but honestly, consider whether you actually need them. For most users, the extra money is better spent on accessories: external monitor, quality power bank, or even a backup external battery.

The ThinkPad T480 remains one of the best value laptops you can buy in Nigeria. Its dual battery system is genuinely unique and perfectly suited for our power situation. The keyboard is the best in its class. The build quality (MIL-STD-810G tested) means it will survive years of daily use.

Just remember: always check battery health, always verify screen type, and always test ports before paying. Those three checks will save you from 90% of UK used laptop problems.

For more laptop buying guidance, see our complete comparison of best budget laptops for coding in Nigeria. If you are setting up a productive workspace, do not miss our guides on best power banks for laptops in Nigeria and productivity apps that work offline for when your data runs out.