Lenovo IdeaPad 1 Review Best Affordable Student Laptop with FHD Display and 12GB RAM

Description

Design and Build Quality

I’ve been using this Lenovo IdeaPad 1 15IJL7, and the first thing that struck me was its sleek, lightweight design. At just 3.42 pounds and measuring 0.7 inches thin, this laptop is incredibly portable, which makes it perfect for students or anyone who needs to move around frequently. The gray chassis gives it a professional and modern look, though it might feel a bit plasticky if you’re used to premium metal builds. The 15.6-inch FHD display with a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels offers crisp visuals, and the anti-glare finish is a thoughtful touch for those long study or work sessions. However, I did notice the 250 nits brightness struggles a bit in bright environments, which could be a drawback for outdoor use.

Performance and Speed

This laptop’s performance is where it shines for its price. Powered by an Intel Celeron N4500 processor, with a base clock speed of 1.1 GHz and turbo boost up to 2.8 GHz, it handles everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and Netflix streaming without breaking a sweat. The 12GB DDR4 RAM ensures smooth multitasking, even when juggling multiple browser tabs and applications. I tested it with a mix of light photo editing and video calls, and it held up surprisingly well. The combination of a 512GB SSD and an additional 128GB eMMC storage offers fast boot times and ample space for files, though serious gamers or professionals working with large files might find the processor limiting.

Key Benefits

• Ample storage capacity: A 512GB SSD + 128GB eMMC combo ensures fast data access and more than enough space for files and media.
• Excellent multitasking: With 12GB of RAM, even heavier workloads feel manageable.
• Portable design: Its lightweight and slim profile makes it ideal for carrying around.

Graphics and Display

The Intel UHD Graphics card is integrated, so it’s not designed for high-end gaming or graphic-heavy tasks. Basic games and casual graphics applications run decently, but don’t expect a seamless experience with AAA games or 4K video editing. The 15.6-inch FHD screen provides sharp visuals for streaming videos or working on presentations, but I felt the color reproduction could be a bit more vibrant. That said, the anti-glare coating is a blessing for those who work under harsh lighting.

Connectivity and Ports

One of the highlights of this laptop is its wide range of connectivity options. It includes one USB 2.0 port, two USB 3.2 ports (one is USB-C), an HDMI 1.4b port, and a headphone/microphone combo jack. The SD card reader is a handy addition for photographers or anyone working with external storage devices. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 ensures strong and fast internet connectivity, and the Bluetooth 5.0 pairs effortlessly with headphones, speakers, and other devices. I’ve used it for transferring files and connecting to wireless peripherals, and it worked flawlessly.

Limitations

• Processor limitations: The Celeron N4500 is fine for basic tasks, but it struggles with anything demanding like video rendering or advanced gaming.
• Display brightness: The screen’s 250 nits brightness feels dim in brightly lit settings.
• Build material: While lightweight, the plastic build doesn’t feel as sturdy as some competitors.

Battery Life

The 9 hours of battery life claimed by Lenovo is fairly accurate in my experience. Running basic applications and using it for browsing or video playback, the battery easily lasted through a workday. However, heavier tasks like streaming or video calls tend to drain the battery faster, so I often found myself reaching for the charger by early evening. The lack of fast charging is a small inconvenience, especially for those who are always on the go.

Market Rivals

When compared to HP’s Pavilion series or Dell Inspiron laptops, the Lenovo IdeaPad 1 holds its ground as a student-friendly option. The HP Pavilion offers somewhat better build quality and brighter displays, but they come at a higher price point. On the other hand, Dell Inspiron models often feature more powerful processors, but they lack the storage flexibility of having both an SSD and eMMC like this Lenovo laptop. In essence, the IdeaPad 1 is an excellent middle-ground choice for those prioritizing storage and affordability over raw power.

Value for Money

This laptop delivers solid value for its price, especially for students and casual users. The inclusion of 1 year of Office 365, Wi-Fi 6 compatibility, and Windows 11 Home adds significant value. While it’s not designed for professionals who need top-notch performance, it’s a fantastic option for everyday use. Considering the features like a full HD display, ample storage, and modern design, it’s a smart spending choice for anyone on a budget.

Additional information