Lenovo details Skylake-based Surface rival and updates ThinkPad range

Lenovo lifts the lid on a new generation of tablets, laptops and desktops

Lenovo has unveiled a wave of new PCs aimed at business and consumer customers, including updates to its trusted ThinkPad range and a device based on Intel's latest processor platform that could be a strong rival to Microsoft's Surface tablet.

Made public at the IFA trade show in Berlin, Lenovo's new line-up includes the ThinkPad E-Series laptops aimed at small to medium business customers, along with updated Lenovo M, B and E series laptops and S series desktop systems.

However, the model likely to garner the most attention comes from the consumer-focused IdeaPad range. The IdeaPad Miix 700 is a 12in tablet based on Intel's newly announced Skylake 6th generation Core processors, and in capabilities and performance is an attractive alternative to Microsoft's well-received Surface device.

The Miix 700 will not arrive until January 2016, but with prices starting at €999 (£737) it is likely to prove popular, coming as it does with a keyboard folio, kickstand and optional Intel RealSense Camera. It will have up to a Core m7 processor, 8GB memory and a 256GB solid state drive (SSD), with a 2160x1440 touchscreen and a weight starting at 780g.

Lenovo's ThinkPad E-Series is designed to deliver exceptional mobility and outstanding features for business users, according to Lenovo. Models are available in 14in and 15.6in versions and with the latest Intel or AMD processors. These will be available from December starting at the €500 (£370) point.

The ThinkPad E460 and E560 are the Intel-based models, powered by the 6th generation Core processors up to a Core i7 6500U with up to 16GB memory and storage options including a 1TB hard drive or 192GB SSD. They also feature AMD Radeon discrete graphics hardware for improved performance.

Their counterparts are the ThinkPad E465 and E565, which are based on the latest Carrizo generation of AMD's processors up to the FX-8800P. The AMD versions are comparable with the Intel-based ones, with up to 16GB memory, the same storage options and AMD Radeon discrete graphics hardware.

Other highlights of the new portfolio include the Lenovo M41 laptop, touted as ideal for business travellers seeking power in a thin and light package. This 14in system features the latest Intel processors up to Core i7, discrete AMD Radeon graphics, 16GB memory and SSD storage, with a claimed battery life of up to nine hours. It is set to be available before the end of the year, along with updated E41, E51, B41 and B51 laptops.

Lenovo is also offering new desktop systems in the shape of the Lenovo S Series, including all-in-ones with 19.5in, 21.5in and 23in full HD displays and optional touchscreens to take best advantage of Windows 10, plus S200 tower and S500 small form factor models for customers looking for a more traditional desktop system.

These are also set to ship before the end of the year, with prices dependent on local markets, according to Lenovo.