Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i review
The Lenovo Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i ranks as the #466 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 72. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #573-ranked features among 606 laptops. Consider the Lenovo ThinkBook 15p or Lenovo ThinkPad L14 Gen 3, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i is a budget-friendly laptop that makes some compromises to achieve its affordable price tag. While the touch display is impressive for a low-cost device and performance isn't bad, there are notable drawbacks. The laptop's 8GB of RAM can struggle with demanding tasks, and upgradable RAM would have been a nice addition. Additionally, the tiny speakers may not be suitable for music enthusiasts. Considering its price point, these trade-offs might be acceptable for those on a tight budget who prioritize the touch display. However, users seeking more robust performance or better audio capabilities may want to consider other options.
Build
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i's build is a mixed bag. The laptop's design is sleek and modern, with a slim profile that makes it easy to carry around. However, the construction feels somewhat flimsy, with some flexing in the keyboard deck and lid. The plastic used for the exterior could be of higher quality, as it feels prone to scratches and scuffs. Despite this, the laptop's overall weight is manageable, making it a good option for those who want a portable device without sacrificing too much performance. Overall, while not perfect, the build is still decent given the price point. You may find Lenovo ThinkBook 16p Gen 4 a better fit, thanks to its superior build.
Display
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i boasts a stunning display that's perfect for its price tag. The 14-inch Full HD touchscreen is vibrant and clear, making it ideal for streaming content or browsing the web. Colours are accurately reproduced, and the screen is responsive to touch input. I was impressed with how well the display handled various lighting conditions, maintaining good visibility even in bright environments. Overall, the display is one of the standout features of this laptop, offering excellent value for those on a budget who want a good visual experience. If you’re after a better display, Lenovo ThinkBook 16p Gen 4 could be the ideal option.
Performance
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i's performance is a mixed bag. While it handles everyday tasks with ease, its 8GB of RAM proves to be a limitation when tackling more demanding applications or gaming. The processor, however, holds its own against rival laptops in benchmarks like 3D Mark Time Spy and stress testing. However, the lack of upgradable RAM and limited USB ports for external GPUs or game streaming make it less appealing for power users. Overall, it's a solid choice for basic tasks but may not satisfy those with more demanding needs. Lenovo IdeaPad 5i Pro might be a smarter choice, offering an upgraded performance.
Battery and Charging
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i's battery life is decent, lasting around 8 hours with moderate use. Charging is relatively quick, taking about an hour to reach 80% capacity from empty. However, the laptop's power consumption can be high when performing resource-intensive tasks, which may impact overall battery life. Overall, a solid mid-range laptop in terms of battery performance.
Connectivity
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i offers decent connectivity options. It features Wi-Fi 6, which ensures smooth online connections. The laptop also has two USB-A ports and one USB-C port, making it easy to connect peripherals. Unfortunately, there's no USB 4 or Thunderbolt port for external GPU capabilities. You might want to check out Lenovo Legion 7i, featuring an upgraded connectivity for a superior experience.
Features
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i is a budget-friendly laptop with a few notable features. It boasts an 11th Gen Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB RAM (non-upgradeable), and a 256GB SSD, making it a decent performer for basic tasks. The touchscreen display is a highlight, offering smooth navigation and responsiveness. Stereo speakers are also on board, though they're compact and not ideal for music listening. Overall, the Slim 3i's features make it suitable for casual users who need a reliable laptop for everyday activities. Take a look at Lenovo ThinkBook 16p Gen 4 - its improved features sets a new standard.
Support and Maintenance
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i's performance isn't bad despite its low cost. However, with only 8GB of RAM, it struggles with demanding tasks. The fan is decently quiet during basic work, but may be heard more frequently when updating the system initially. Lenovo's Vantage app allows users to manage fan behavior and adjust settings for battery saving mode. Overall, the laptop performs well, but its limitations are noticeable.
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