Lenovo IdeaPad 5 Laptop Review AMD Ryzen 7 Power and FHD Touchscreen

Description

Impressive Display and Touchscreen Integration

The 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen display on this laptop immediately caught my attention. Its 1920 x 1080 resolution coupled with IPS technology delivers vibrant colors, sharp details, and excellent viewing angles. I’ve used it for everything from streaming movies to editing photos, and the 300 nits of brightness ensure visibility even in well-lit environments. The anti-glare coating is another thoughtful touch, minimizing reflections during outdoor use. The touchscreen functionality adds a layer of convenience, allowing for quick navigation and interaction in apps that support touch gestures. While it’s not a feature I use daily, it’s undeniably handy for tasks like annotating documents or browsing.

Performance and Multitasking Capabilities

With the AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor, this laptop is a powerhouse for both casual and professional use. Boasting 8 cores and 16 threads, it handles intensive multitasking like a champ. I’ve run multiple resource-heavy applications simultaneously without experiencing noticeable lag. The base clock speed of 2.0 GHz and the max boost of 4.5 GHz provide a smooth performance even under demanding workloads. From video editing software to casual gaming, the integrated AMD Radeon Graphics complements the processor, delivering decent graphical performance for an integrated GPU. However, those seeking high-end gaming or professional 3D modeling might find dedicated graphics more suitable.

Storage and RAM: A Dream for Data Hoarders

The inclusion of 16GB DDR4 RAM is a major plus point. I tested it by running several applications, including Chrome with 20 tabs open, and the system didn’t blink. Combine that with the 1TB PCIe SSD, and you have a setup that’s not only fast but also offers ample storage for files, videos, and software. The SSD ensures lightning-fast boot times and quick data access, which has genuinely elevated my productivity.

Design and Portability

Weighing 4.4 lbs and measuring 0.75 inches thick, the laptop strikes a balance between portability and functionality. The grey finish gives it a sleek, professional look, though I noticed it’s a bit prone to fingerprints. The backlit keyboard is a lifesaver during late-night work sessions, and the keys themselves offer a decent amount of travel, making typing comfortable. The fingerprint reader adds a layer of security, and I appreciated how quickly it logged me in without needing to type a password. While the design isn’t groundbreaking, it’s practical and user-friendly.

Good Aspects

• High multitasking performance thanks to the AMD Ryzen 7 processor and 16GB RAM.
• Ample storage space with the 1TB SSD for files, media, and software applications.
• Crisp and vibrant touchscreen display with an anti-glare finish for better usability in bright environments.
• Thoughtful features like a backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader enhance usability.
• Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity ensure fast and reliable wireless performance.

Adverse Aspects

• The integrated AMD Radeon Graphics is suitable for casual use but limits the laptop’s capability for high-end gaming or professional-grade 3D tasks.
• The HDMI 1.4b port feels outdated, as many competitors now offer HDMI 2.0 or higher for better resolution and refresh rates.
• The battery life, while decent at up to 12 hours, can drop significantly with heavy tasks or high brightness settings.
• Speakers lack depth, making external audio solutions necessary for an immersive experience.

Ports and Connectivity Options

The port selection is another strong suit of this device. With two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C ports (one supporting power-in), two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, an HDMI 1.4b, and a media card reader, it covers most connectivity needs. I particularly liked the headphone/microphone combo jack, which works seamlessly with my wired headset. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 ensures fast and stable internet connectivity, even when multiple devices are connected to the same network. However, I feel the lack of Thunderbolt support might be a deal-breaker for professionals who rely on high-speed data transfers.

Market Rivals

Comparing this laptop to Dell XPS 15 and HP Envy 15, it holds its ground well in terms of performance and storage. The Lenovo IdeaPad 5 excels in offering a touchscreen display and a larger SSD at a relatively competitive price. However, the XPS 15 edges out with its 4K display option and more premium build quality, while the HP Envy 15 offers dedicated GPU options for users needing superior graphical performance. For those in need of a versatile workhorse without breaking the bank, this laptop strikes an excellent balance.

Budget-Friendly

Given its impressive specs, this laptop offers fantastic value for its price. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the combination of a powerful processor, ample RAM, and a generous SSD ensures you’re getting a lot for your investment. It’s a smart choice for students, professionals, or anyone who requires robust performance without overspending.

Additional information