Schenker Connect 15: Business Laptop with Removable Battery and Smart Card Reader

Schenker has entered the business laptop market with its new Connect 15, a device that prioritizes practicality and security over flashy features. The laptop is now available starting at €999, though the base configuration comes with modest specs including 8GB of DDR5 RAM and a 500GB SSD. Every model, regardless of configuration, is powered by the Intel Core 5 120U processor, positioning this as a productivity-focused machine rather than a performance powerhouse.

The 15.6-inch display offers a 1,920 x 1,080 pixel resolution on an IPS panel that covers more than 90 percent of the sRGB color space. At 60Hz, the refresh rate is clearly aimed at office applications rather than gaming or creative work. Schenker claims a brightness of 400 nits, which should provide adequate visibility in most office environments.

In terms of physical design, the Connect 15 measures 10.3 x 9.4 x 0.8 inches and weighs approximately 3.9 pounds. The chassis feels substantial without being overly bulky, striking a balance between portability and durability that business users often require.

One of the standout features is the removable 55Wh battery that can be swapped without tools. This design choice addresses a common pain point for business users who may need to extend their workday beyond a single charge or replace aging batteries without professional service. At 150 cd/m² brightness while browsing over Wi-Fi, Schenker rates battery life at around 6 hours, which is respectable for a 55Wh battery in a 15-inch form factor.

The connectivity options on the Connect 15 are notably comprehensive for a business laptop. Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 come standard, ensuring future-proof wireless connectivity. For those who need mobile connectivity without relying on smartphone tethering, an LTE module is available for €79.

Perhaps most unusual is the charging flexibility. While the laptop ships with a 45-watt barrel connector power adapter weighing 9.5 ounces, it can actually charge faster through USB PD at 65 watts. This means users can potentially use the same charger for multiple devices, reducing cable clutter and improving convenience during travel.

The port selection is particularly business-friendly. In addition to the expected Thunderbolt 4 port, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C and Type-A ports, and HDMI 1.4b, Schenker includes both a microSD card reader and a SmartCard reader. The SmartCard reader is especially noteworthy for enterprise environments where smart card authentication is standard practice for security.

For users in regulated industries, Schenker offers Secured-Core features for an additional €29. These hardware-based security features, which include things like secure boot and hardware-enforced stack protection, can be mandatory in certain enterprise and government environments.

The inclusion of Gigabit Ethernet is another practical touch for business users who often work in environments where wired connections are preferred for stability and security. The combined 3.5mm audio jack and USB 2.0 port round out the connectivity options.

The Full-HD webcam should suffice for video conferencing, though it's not a standout feature in an era where many laptops are moving to higher resolutions or better low-light performance.

At its core, the Schenker Connect 15 appears to be a no-nonsense business laptop that prioritizes features that matter to enterprise users: security, connectivity options, battery flexibility, and practical design choices. While it won't win any performance awards with its Intel Core 5 120U processor, it seems well-suited for its target audience of business professionals who value reliability and practical features over raw computing power.

The €999 starting price positions it competitively in the business laptop segment, especially considering the included features like the SmartCard reader and the option for Secured-Core activation. For organizations looking for a straightforward, serviceable business laptop with modern connectivity options, the Connect 15 presents a compelling option.