Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook review
The Lenovo Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook ranks as the #842 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 57. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #524-ranked connectivity among 449 laptops. Consider the Lenovo 300e Chromebook Gen 3 or HP 14, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook is a serviceable machine that won't break the bank at $250. While it's not ideal, it gets the job done for everyday tasks like web browsing and homework. The Intel Celeron N4020 processor provides decent performance, but may struggle with more demanding apps. The display, however, is a major letdown - a TN panel that's not viewable from any angle. Despite its limitations, this Chromebook is worth considering if you're on a tight budget. If you can stretch to $270, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet offers a significantly better viewing experience.
Build
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook's build is satisfactory, constructed from plastic that feels well put together. Despite its deceptively large size, the laptop has a pleasant typing experience with a comfortable key layout and tactile response. However, the non-backlit keyboard may be a deterrent for some users. The trackpad is decent in size but lacks precision, making it unreliable to use. The laptop's build quality is nothing spectacular, but considering its budget-friendly price of $250, it gets a pass. The plastic used feels sturdy and should withstand daily wear and tear. Overall, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook's build may not impress, but it's serviceable for its intended use case as a basic computing machine. You might want to check out Lenovo 100e, featuring an upgraded build for a superior experience.
Display
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook's display is a major letdown. The TN panel lacks vibrancy and clarity, making it difficult to view for extended periods. The resolution of 1366 x 768p is acceptable for the price point, but the overall quality is subpar. The display suffers from glare reflections and viewing angles are non-existent, making it uncomfortable to watch videos or browse online content. This is particularly disappointing given the Asus Chromebook Flip's success in delivering a high-quality display at an affordable price. For the same $250, I would expect a better viewing experience, especially considering the competition from other budget laptops with superior displays. Take a look at Lenovo 100e - its improved display sets a new standard.
Performance
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook's performance is average at best. Powered by an Intel Celeron N4020 chipset, it can handle light tasks such as browsing and streaming without any issues. However, running multiple tabs or apps can cause some stuttering. Games like Pokémon Quest and Bloons Adventure Time work flawlessly, but graphically intensive games like War Robots won't open at all. The device's performance is typical of budget Chromebooks with Intel Celeron processors. It's not a deal-breaker, but it's not impressive either, especially considering the device's affordable price tag. Overall, performance is just one aspect of this laptop that's satisfactory, rather than outstanding. If you're after top-notch performance, consider Lenovo 300e Chromebook Gen 3.
Battery and Charging
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook delivers solid battery life when used for web browsing. It can go days without needing to be charged, making it suitable for daily use. However, if you use the laptop for entertainment purposes, such as gaming, the battery life drops to around 45 hours. Charging is also convenient with USB-C support. The device's ability to charge quickly and efficiently is a welcome feature in an affordable laptop like this one.
Connectivity
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook boasts an impressive array of connectivity options for its price point. Two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, a headphone jack, and a micro SD card reader are all included, making it easy to plug in accessories or transfer files. The device also supports fast charging via USB-C, ensuring that you can get back to work quickly. Overall, the connectivity options on the IdeaPad 3 Chromebook are more than adequate for its intended use cases. Give Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 3 a try—it’s designed to provide an unparalleled connectivity.
Features
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook offers an affordable price point at $250. It features a simple setup process and quick boot up time. The Intel Celeron N4020 chipset provides decent performance for basic tasks, but may struggle with more demanding apps. Ports include USB-C, USB-A, and a headphone jack, making it suitable for kids' homework needs. Get your hands on Lenovo 100e if you're looking for better features.
Support and Maintenance
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook is a serviceable machine for its price. With cloud-based work suites and Zoom usage rising, this device caters to remote learning needs. Despite lacking polish, it's reliable, with solid battery life and decent performance. Ideal for those who don't mind a basic computing experience.
Pros
1. The ideapad 3 provides you with 2 usb c ports, 2 usb a ports, a headphone jack, and a micro sd card reader... It's definitely refreshing to see a usbc on a $250 laptop.
2. You'll get solid battery life here if you literally use this for web browsing on chrome os as it was intended for. However, if you use this laptop for entertainment purposes, I was able to squeeze roughly 45 hours running a game non-stop off the plug... that's not too bad.
3. The typing experience is satisfactory, thanks to a large comfortable key layout. The keycaps don't give off that mushy feel that many laptops in the budget range of yesteryear are known for.
4. The addition of a micro sd card slot helps alleviate the minuscule 32 gigabytes of on-board storage.
5. It's constructed from plastic and deceptively large, but seems well put together.
6. If you're looking to use this laptop only for its intended purpose (web browsing), it is very much a serviceable machine.
Cons
1. The trackpad isn't quite precise enough to be reliable to use... I found myself having to subconsciously target what I'm clicking on more than usual.
2. The speakers are down-facing and sound muffled, with a kind of archaic tone. You can tell Lenovo didn't put a lot of value into audio reproduction here.
3. Don't expect much from the 720p webcam... you'll have to rely on your own beauty to impress your co-workers or classmates instead of placing your trust on the capabilities of this camera.
4. The budget for this laptop is very tight, and it shows in some areas. Unless you can add $25 to your budget, I highly recommend looking into other options.
5. It's not an ideal computing machine... You'll just have to stomach looking at it.
6. The display isn't mentioned anywhere as a strong point of the laptop.
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