Dynabook and NEC unveil a new line of laptops that combine 13th generation Intel processors with optical drives.
In 2025, something unusual was discovered: Dynabook and NEC laptops come equipped with optical drives and powerful processors.
Dynabook has launched its T series, which incorporates 13th generation Intel processors, while NEC has introduced the Lavie N16 model, which combines AMD Ryzen 7 and 12th generation Intel processors. What is surprising is that both laptops, designed for the business environment in 2025, include integrated optical drives, contrasting with the current trend of prioritizing portability and lightweight designs in devices.
The Dynabook T series features 16-inch displays with a 16:10 aspect ratio and a resolution of 1920×1200 pixels. This line is offered in four configurations: T5/Y, T6/Y, T7/Y, and T9/Y. The T9/Y model stands out for including a Blu-ray drive, while the other models come with a DVD Super Multi-Drive. The T9/Y and T7/Y models incorporate Intel Core i7-1360P and i7-1355U processors, respectively, presenting a dual-fan cooling system. Meanwhile, the T6/Y and T5/Y models are equipped with Intel Core i3-1305U and i5-1335U processors, using only one fan for cooling.
The T series allows for RAM configurations of 16GB or 32GB and offers storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB in SSD. Additionally, there is a dedicated access door on the bottom panel for easy memory upgrades. In terms of connectivity, it includes three USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, one Thunderbolt 4 (USB4 Type-C) port, one HDMI output, a wired LAN port, and a microphone/audio jack. It also supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, with prices starting at approximately 160,000 yen (about $1,046) for the T5/Y model, rising to 280,000 yen (around $1,830) for the T9/Y model.
The NEC Lavie N16 is available in three configurations: N1675/JA, N1655/JA, and N1635/JA, all featuring a 16-inch WUXGA IPS panel, a 16:10 aspect ratio, and a resolution of 1920×1200 pixels, and also equipped with a DVD Super Multi-Drive. The N1675/JA model is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 7735U processor and offers a 512GB SSD, while the mid-range N1655/JA and base N1635/JA models feature Intel Core i5-1235U and Intel Core i3-1215U processors, respectively, also with 256GB SSDs.
Additionally, the Lavie N16 includes one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, one HDMI output, a wired LAN port, a microphone/audio jack, and supports Wi-Fi 6E. Prices for the Lavie N16 configurations range from 154,800 yen (about $1,013) to 184,800 yen (approximately $1,209).
