The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook: A Review
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is a versatile and lightweight device that offers the best of both worlds – the functionality of a laptop and the convenience of a tablet. In this review, we will take a closer look at its design, features, and performance.
Design and Build
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is a compact device, measuring 11 inches wide, 8 inches long, and just 0.34 inches thick. It weighs just over 2.5 pounds, making it highly portable and easy to carry around. The shell is made of lightweight plastic, and there are two long rubber feet running the length of it underneath, providing stability on any surface.
On the right-hand side of the device, you will find the power button and volume adjustment controls. Additionally, there is a Kensington lock slot for added security. On the left-hand side, there is the USB-C charging port, along with status LEDs, a USB 2.0 port, a combo microphone and headphone jack, and a micro SD card slot.
Setup and Interface
Setting up the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is quick and easy. Upon starting the device for the first time, you will be guided through a brief setup process. You will have the option to choose whether the device will be used by an adult or a child. If you select the latter, you can set specific rules and restrictions for its use.
The device features a touchscreen interface, giving you the flexibility to interact with it like a tablet. The attached keyboard allows for easy typing and navigating. It is important to note that the device needs to be connected to the internet via Wi-Fi, as most of its applications operate on the cloud.
Performance and Battery Life
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook offers smooth and efficient performance, thanks to its Intel processor and 4GB of RAM. It handles everyday tasks, such as web browsing, document editing, and media streaming, with ease. The device also boasts a long battery life, allowing you to work or play for extended periods without needing to charge it frequently.
Furthermore, the device automatically updates itself if an update is available. This ensures that you always have the latest security patches and features without the need for manual intervention.
Keyboard and Mousepad
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook comes with a full-size, 10-keyless quiry keyboard. Although it is not backlit, it provides a comfortable typing experience. Located along the top row are several quick function keys, including back, forward, refresh, full screen, desktop toggle, brightness controls, mute volume, and device lock. These keys allow for easy navigation and control while using the device. Below the keyboard is a generously large mousepad, which is smooth and responsive.
Webcam and Audio
The built-in 720p 1-megapixel webcam is located at the top of the screen. It is accompanied by a red cover that can be slid over the lens to block it when not in use, ensuring privacy and security. The webcam, along with the dual stereo microphones to its left and right, are suitable for video chats and virtual meetings. While the image and video quality may not be the best, they are sufficient for everyday use.
Using the Device as a Guest
If you choose not to log in with a Google account, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook allows you to use the device as a guest. Simply tap or click the button in the bottom left corner to access guest mode. When using the device as a guest, your activity will not be saved when you log out, and you will be restricted to using the internet browser and file explorer to access the SD card. Guest mode also limits your access to basic settings such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. To exit guest mode, click the system tray in the bottom right corner and tap “exit guest.”
Chromebook Settings Sync
One of the great features of the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is the ability to sync your settings with another device that is logged in using the same account. This means that you can have a consistent experience across all your devices. Whether you are using your Chromebook or an Android mobile device, the syncing function allows you to have the same settings and preferences.
Android Compatibility
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook operates like any typical Android mobile device. You can easily install apps from the Google Play Store and take advantage of the various features available. Additionally, you can enable voice commands and use an AI assistant to make your tasks even easier. Another convenient feature is the ability to unlock your Chromebook using a connected smartphone, making the login process seamless.
Chrome OS and Apps
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook runs on Chrome OS, which provides a user-friendly interface. The apps are accessible from a swipe-up shelf located along the bottom of the screen. This layout makes it easy to navigate and find the apps you need. Whether you need productivity apps or entertainment apps, you can find them and organize them according to your preferences.
Flexible Usage and Onscreen Keyboard
The hinge of the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook allows for a 360-degree rotation. This means that you can use it without the physical keyboard and even place it in tent orientation, acting as its own stand. This flexibility makes it suitable for various tasks and situations. The onscreen keyboard is also user-friendly, supporting swipe typing with predictive word completion. This feature eliminates the need to tap each individual letter, making typing faster and more efficient.
Display and Audio Quality
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook features an 11 or 12-inch glossy IPS screen with 10-point multi-touch support. This enables you to interact with the screen through taps and swipes, similar to using a tablet. However, the display resolution is only 1366×768 with a 160 DPI, which may not offer the best color and contrast. While the screen is bright, it tends to dim quickly when viewed from off angles. The color accuracy is average, with a 45 NTSC color gamut, making it not ideal for creative work or photography. However, it performs well for streaming videos in up to 720p quality.
In terms of audio quality, the built-in speakers on the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook are surprisingly decent. They can get pretty loud, but for a better listening experience, using headphones is recommended.
Specifications
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook comes with a 64-bit ARM Cortex A73 processor, 4 GB of RAM, and 32 GB of drive storage. It should be noted that around 12 GB of the storage is already occupied by the operating system and pre-installed applications. Unfortunately, the internal storage cannot be upgraded, so users will have to rely on a Micro SD card or cloud storage to expand their space. This Chromebook may not be suitable for resource-heavy applications like 3D design and digital studios, but it performs well with casual mobile games.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The battery life of the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 is pretty decent, lasting up to 10 hours on a full charge. However, the actual battery life may vary depending on usage. In terms of connectivity, this device supports Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2. While it may not have the latest and greatest connectivity options, it still provides decent speed and performance. The two USB ports can be used for connecting peripherals and powering external devices.
Software and Features
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook runs on Chrome OS, which means many of Google’s services are accessed through the Chrome web browser. Users can utilize email, word processing, spreadsheets, and other apps within the browser. However, it’s important to note that without an internet connection, these apps won’t be accessible. The automatic OS updates provide built-in antivirus protection, ensuring the device is always up to date with the latest security features.
Usage and Performance
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook serves as a lightweight alternative to a full laptop. It can be used as a tablet or in its own stand, offering versatility in different modes. While it may not have the highest quality screen or the fastest processor, it boots up quickly and handles most productivity tasks and internet browsing with ease. This Chromebook is suitable for everyday use and provides a reliable performance for various tasks.
In conclusion, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is a viable option for individuals looking for a lightweight device with decent performance. While it may not excel in certain aspects like screen quality or processing power, it compensates with its versatility and efficient functioning. Whether used as a tablet or laptop, this Chromebook offers a reliable experience for productivity tasks and internet browsing.
Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook Review
Lenovo has always been known for delivering reliable and innovative products, and their IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is no exception. With its sleek design, powerful performance, and an array of useful features, this Chromebook is perfect for both work and play.
Design and Display
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook features a 14-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The screen produces vibrant colors and sharp images, making it a joy to use for browsing, streaming, and multimedia consumption. The 2-in-1 design allows you to rotate the screen 360 degrees, transforming it into a tablet mode or positioning it in tent mode for effortless collaboration or entertainment.
Performance and Battery Life
Powering the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is an Intel Celeron processor paired with 4GB of RAM. While it may not be the most powerful configuration, it is more than capable of handling everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media streaming. The Chrome OS ensures smooth performance and quick start-up times. With up to 10 hours of battery life, you can work or play on the go without worrying about running out of power.
Keyboard and Touchpad
The IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook features a comfortable and responsive keyboard, making typing a breeze. The island-style keys are well-spaced and offer decent travel, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience. The touchpad is smooth and accurate, allowing precise control and navigation.
Storage and Connectivity
With 64GB of internal storage, the IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook provides ample space for saving documents, files, and multimedia. In case you require additional storage, it is equipped with a microSD card slot. The laptop also includes two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, and a headphone/microphone combo jack for easy connectivity to various devices.
Audio and Webcam
The stereo speakers on the IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook deliver clear and crisp sound, allowing for an immersive audio experience while watching movies or listening to music. The integrated webcam provides decent video quality and is ideal for video conferencing or virtual meetings.
Conclusion
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is a reliable and versatile device that caters to both productivity and entertainment needs. Its compact design, touchscreen interface, and long battery life make it a perfect companion for on-the-go use. Whether you are a student, a professional, or simply someone who wants a lightweight and functional device, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is worth considering.
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook offers a comfortable typing experience with its full-size keyboard and spacious mousepad. The built-in webcam and dual stereo microphones are suitable for video chats and virtual meetings. Additionally, the ability to use the device as a guest provides convenience and privacy for users who do not wish to log in with a Google account. Overall, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is a reliable and versatile device for everyday use.
In conclusion, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is a versatile and reliable device that offers great value for its price. Whether you need it for work, education, or entertainment purposes, this Chromebook ticks all the right boxes. Its impressive display, performance, and user-friendly features make it a worthy choice for anyone in need of a reliable and portable computing solution.
I hope you found this review helpful. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below.
