Lenovo IdeaPad 5i 2-in-1 Review: Versatile and Affordable

The Lenovo IdeaPad 5i 2-in-1 is an excellent choice for users looking for a versatile and affordable device, currently available for $699. This device offers strong performance for daily tasks thanks to its robust specifications and clear audio. However, it might not be the ideal option for everyone due to its screen lacking vibrancy and a keyboard that lacks optimal tactile feedback.

Design and Keyboard

The laptop features a practical and minimalist design in a uniform gray color, making it suitable for most work environments and daily uses. Although it is slightly larger than some competing devices in its category, this extra space allowed for the integration of a larger numeric keypad that doesn't cramp the main keys, a feature that spreadsheet users might find very useful.

While the keyboard is comfortable due to the wide spacing between keys, the keys themselves are described as "rubbery" and lack the clear tactile feedback some prefer for long typing sessions. Also, the trackpad, which is positioned slightly to the left of center, is small and limits comfortable movement.

Screen and Display Quality

Regarding the screen, which is a major weakness in this device, it is not vibrant enough. Colors suffer from dullness, saturation is weak, and specifically, red appears reddish-orange. Tests indicate that the screen covers only about 63% of the sRGB color gamut and approximately 43% of the DCI-P3 gamut, explaining the apparent poor color reproduction for users [WIRED], [Laptop Mag]. Additionally, the glossy glass surface reflects a lot of light, making content viewing difficult in less-than-ideal conditions, with a maximum brightness of 300 nits.

Nevertheless, the 16-inch screen with a 16:10 aspect ratio provides ample workspace, and the 1900 x 1200 pixel resolution ensures clear text and videos. The 60Hz refresh rate is also suitable for web browsing and movie watching. The 1080p front-facing camera performs adequately for video calls with good clarity.

Audio Quality

The audio quality in the laptop is surprisingly positive, featuring 2W speakers with Dolby Audio support, providing clear and crisp sound with good separation between instruments and vocals. However, the maximum volume is considered low and cannot fill a large room with sound.

Performance and Battery Life

The laptop is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 255U processor, integrated Intel graphics, and 16GB of RAM. While not a performance powerhouse, it is suitable for daily productivity and multitasking. In tests, the device handled typical workloads, including opening over 50 Chrome tabs, streaming multiple videos, typing in Google Docs, and using apps like Slack and Spotify, in addition to some light editing, without significant issues.

The 2-in-1 convertible hinge also adds significant value, making editing applications feel more natural and fluid in tablet mode. It's worth noting that it does not come with a digital pen, which must be purchased separately. The laptop showed better-than-expected performance in Cinebench 2024 tests, achieving 674 points compared to the average of 568 points for the Intel Core Ultra 7 255U processor.

Battery life is very good, lasting approximately 12 hours on a single charge during tests, making it suitable for a full workday or on-the-go use.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Overall, the Lenovo IdeaPad 5i 2-in-1 is a recommended choice for anyone looking for a 16-inch convertible laptop suitable for work in the mid-range price category. It offers good, above-average performance, but its screen might not meet the expectations of users seeking vibrant and accurate colors.

If flexibility and versatility in use are your top priorities, you might enjoy this convertible device. However, if you are looking for a more refined display or overall performance experience, there might be other options like the Acer Aspire 16 or Dell 14 Plus, which offer similar performance with better battery life or a sharper display, respectively.