Design and Build Quality
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 is an 8-inch Android tablet that boasts a sleek and sturdy design. Made mostly of aluminum, it exudes a premium feel and looks well-built. Although the transition from the display to the body may not be as seamless as those found on high-end devices from Apple and Samsung, it is acceptable given its price range. At just 7.6 mm thin and weighing only 348 grams, it is impressively slim and lightweight, making it highly portable.
Display and Performance
One of the standout features of the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 is its 144 Hz display. This high refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling, fluid animations, and an overall enhanced user experience. Whether you’re gaming, streaming videos, or simply browsing the web, the display offers crisp visuals and vibrant colors.
Under the hood, this tablet houses powerful hardware that allows for seamless multitasking and smooth performance. While it may not be on par with top-tier tablets in terms of processing power, it still offers more than enough power for everyday tasks and casual gaming.
Connectivity and Ports
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 impresses with its connectivity options. It features not just one, but two USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 ports. This means you can easily connect external devices such as a keyboard, mouse, or even an external monitor to enhance your productivity. Additionally, it also has a Micro SD card slot for expandable storage, which is a useful feature for those who require additional space for their files and media.
Importing and Pricing
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 is not readily available internationally and needs to be imported from China. While this may pose certain challenges, it can still be a worthwhile investment. Importing it directly from China typically costs around $300, making it an attractive option for those planning a trip to the country. However, it’s important to note that importing brings along potential issues with support and warranty, so buyers should be prepared to handle any such concerns independently.
In terms of pricing, I purchased the tablet for $439, excluding shipping. Although this may seem relatively high, considering the features and performance it offers, it still presents good value for money compared to other tablets in the market.
Display and Performance
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 boasts an impressive 8.8-inch IPS display with a resolution of 2560 x 600 pixels. This means that it has a higher resolution compared to other 8-inch tablets in the market. The text and icons on the display look sharp, making it a treat for reading and browsing.
Not only does the display offer excellent viewing angles and contrast, but it is also incredibly bright with a brightness of 500 nits. This makes it perfect for outdoor use, as the screen remains visible even in direct sunlight. Moreover, the tablet supports up to 144Hz, allowing for smooth animations and enhanced gaming experience. It even surpasses the iPad Mini in terms of eliminating the jelly effect. Users have the option to choose between 120Hz and 60Hz in the display settings.
Camera and Audio
While the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 is equipped with an 8-megapixel front-facing camera, it may not be the best in its class. The camera works fine for video chats, but there is certainly room for improvement. Similarly, the 13-megapixel main camera on the back captures decent pictures, but it doesn’t offer exceptional image quality. Additionally, the tablet comes with a 2-megapixel macro camera on the back, but its usefulness may be limited on a tablet.
One disappointment is that the tablet does not have an earpiece or a version with phone capability. This means that it cannot fully replace a smartphone. However, the 8-inch size of the tablet makes it easily portable, fitting in jacket pockets or even back pockets of pants.
Design and Display
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 is an 8-inch Android tablet that impresses with its sleek design and vibrant display. The tablet boasts a V level of L1, which allows for HD resolution when streaming content from popular services such as Netflix. This is a notable feature as many imported tablets from China do not support HD resolution, making the Legion Tab Y700 stand out from the competition.
Audio Quality
One of the standout features of the Legion Tab Y700 is its audio quality. The tablet is equipped with two speakers that deliver surprisingly loud and clear sound, especially for an 8-inch device. The device also offers a strong bass, which sets it apart from other tablets in its size range. Whether you’re listening to music, watching videos, or playing games, the Legion Tab Y700 provides an immersive audio experience.
Active Pen
Lenovo offers an active pen called the Lenovo Tab Pen Plus, which is compatible with the Legion Tab Y700. What’s great about this pen is that it is readily available in both the US and Europe, eliminating the need to import it from China. Made of plastic, the pen is comfortable to hold and supports over 4000 levels of pressure sensitivity. It also features a side button and is charged using USB-C. The pen connects to the tablet via Bluetooth, allowing for precise and seamless use. Whether you’re taking notes or creating digital artwork, the active pen adds an extra level of functionality to the Legion Tab Y700.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Legion Tab Y700 does not disappoint. The tablet is equipped with a powerful processor and ample RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and fast app loading times. Whether you’re browsing the web, playing games, or streaming media, the Legion Tab Y700 offers a seamless experience without any lag or stuttering.
App Compatibility
While the active pen works well with the Legion Tab Y700, its performance may vary depending on the app you use. It is especially effective when used with apps such as Sketchbook, where it offers precise and accurate input. However, it’s worth noting that different apps may provide different levels of compatibility and functionality with the active pen.
In conclusion, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 is undoubtedly the best 8-inch Android tablet on the market. Its impressive design, vibrant display, and strong audio quality make it an ideal choice for entertainment purposes. The inclusion of the active pen adds versatility and functionality to the tablet, making it suitable for productivity tasks as well. Overall, the Legion Tab Y700 offers a seamless and enjoyable user experience that sets it apart from its competitors.
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 Review: The BEST 8-Inch Android Tablet
Pre-loaded Notes App and the Pen
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 comes with a pre-loaded notes app that, unfortunately, falls short in terms of quality. The pen that accompanies the tablet can also be lacking at times. Although Lenovo has included software features that allow you to easily create new notes and annotate screenshots, it is clear that the offerings from Samsung and Apple are superior, especially when it comes to iPad OS. Both Samsung and Apple have a wider range of apps that are optimized for use with a pen. If you prioritize a tablet with excellent pen functionality, I would highly recommend opting for the iPad Mini with the Y700.
Powerful Hardware
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen One processor, along with either 12 GB or 16 GB of RAM and 256 GB or 512 GB of internal storage. It is worth noting that both storage options are quite generous, which is a positive aspect of this tablet. I personally have the 12 GB and 256 GB version, which is the more affordable option. Comparing benchmark scores, the Legion Tab proves to be more powerful than the majority of Android tablets currently available, even outperforming the more expensive Samsung Galaxy Tab S8. However, it must be highlighted that the new Samsung Tab S9 series and the iPad Mini are still more powerful in terms of performance.
Gaming Performance
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 performs exceptionally well in gaming. In the 3D Mark Wildlife Test, it showcases impressive performance, surpassing most Android devices. In my real-world gaming test, I was able to select very high graphic settings, with the frame rate set to 60 FPS. The game ran smoothly, almost on par with the iPad Mini. However, there is a noticeable difference when comparing visual effects. On the Apple tablet, you can set the visual effects to “very high,” while on the Y700, it is limited to “high.” This discrepancy is reflected in the graphics quality during gameplay.
The Display and Graphics
On the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700, the graphics may not be as sharp as on the iPad Mini, but they still look impressive. The lighting effects are great and the details are more than satisfactory. While the Apple tablet may have a slight edge in benchmarks, the Lenovo tablet performs exceptionally well in games. I was able to set the graphics to Ultra HD in popular games like PUBG Mobile and Diablo, and the performance was smooth and visually appealing. Even in games like Shadows Slayer, which require high graphic settings, the Lenovo tablet performs seamlessly.
Desktop Mode and Gaming Experience
One of the advantages of the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 is its ability to switch to desktop mode. I tried playing games like Engine Impact in this mode, but unfortunately, it does not support keyboard control. However, most other games can be played in desktop mode, providing a more immersive gaming experience. For those looking to use the tablet as a PC replacement, the option to connect an external monitor and keyboard is also available, making it a versatile device for work and play.
Fortnite Performance
Fortnite is one of the most popular games among gamers, and I put the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 to the test. Initially, I set the graphics to Epic and the frame rate to 60 with a 3D resolution of 100. However, I noticed occasional stuttering during gameplay. After adjusting the 3D resolution to 75, the game ran much smoother with a consistent frame rate of 48 fps. It’s worth noting that even though the tablet may not handle the highest settings in Fortnite, it still provides an enjoyable gaming experience.
Software and Interface
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 runs on Android 13 out of the box and features the Zu UI. This gives the tablet a slightly different interface compared to other Lenovo devices. While it may take some time to get used to the new interface, it offers a fresh and unique user experience. With Android 13, users can expect the latest features and security updates, ensuring a smooth and secure operation.
In conclusion, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 proves to be an outstanding 8-inch Android tablet for gaming enthusiasts. With impressive graphics performance, the ability to switch to desktop mode, and a reliable gaming experience, this tablet offers the best of both worlds. Whether you’re into mobile gaming or looking for a versatile device for work and play, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 deserves serious consideration.
Customizations and System Language
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 comes with some customizations to the Android operating system. However, these customizations are not too heavy, and at its core, it is just a normal Android experience. Although, it’s worth noting that the version of Android on this tablet is specifically designed for the Chinese market.
When you first start the tablet, you will need to select English as the language. Unfortunately, other European languages and several Asian languages cannot be selected as a system language with the Chinese ROM. This limitation may be disappointing for some users who prefer to use their native language. However, the good news is that the keyboard on the tablet can be set to almost all languages, providing some flexibility in this aspect.
Updates and Software
Lenovo is not known for being at the forefront of providing timely updates to its devices. However, most international tablets from Lenovo typically receive one or two major version updates. As for the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023, it has already received smaller updates since its release. This suggests that there will likely be more updates in the future, offering bug fixes and improvements.
Upon initial setup, you may notice that the Google Play Store and other Google apps such as Chrome, YouTube, and Gmail are missing. However, this is not a cause for concern as you can easily install these apps yourself by downloading the APK files. Once the Play Store is installed, the tablet functions just like any other Android tablet.
Additional Features
In addition to the familiar Android experience, Lenovo has included a few extra features on the Legion Tab Y700 2023. These features enhance the overall user experience and provide added convenience.
One noteworthy feature is the ability to open two apps directly next to each other, allowing for multitasking and increased productivity. This feature is particularly useful when it comes to tasks such as referencing information while writing or editing documents.
Furthermore, the tablet also includes a dock and taskbar, which further streamlines navigation and accessibility. The dock provides easy access to frequently used apps, while the taskbar allows for quick switching between open apps.
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 Review: The BEST 8-Inch Android Tablet
PC Mode: A Desktop Experience Like No Other
Besides the stylus features, the most exciting one on the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 is the PC mode. This innovative feature allows users to transform their tablet into a desktop experience by connecting an external monitor, mouse, and keyboard. The connection can be easily established using Bluetooth and USBC. Once the PC mode is activated, users can enjoy working on a large screen, just like on a desktop PC. Android apps can be opened in freely movable windows, and a desktop and taskbar are available for seamless multitasking. The tablet truly delivers on its promise, providing a smooth and efficient desktop-like experience.
A True Desktop Replacement Experience
During testing, I connected the tablet to a monitor using USBC and used a Bluetooth mouse and keyboard. I ran Chrome and Microsoft Office applications, just like on my PC, with YouTube running in the background. The processor performance of the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 is more than sufficient for this type of usage, especially when paired with its large memory capacity. However, it is important to note that while the tablet comes close to emulating a laptop experience, it falls slightly short. One of the drawbacks is that the screen is only mirrored on the external monitor, rather than expanded. Additionally, the absence of display settings is disappointing, as the font appears too big and the entire screen is not utilized, resulting in black borders on the sides. Furthermore, occasional bugs were encountered, reaffirming the fact that no Android tablet can entirely replace a laptop. Nevertheless, the PC mode remains a cool feature that can be useful in certain situations. It’s worth mentioning that the external screen cannot be extended in PC mode, but it is possible with normal Android. For instance, you can open YouTube on the tablet and Chrome on the monitor.
Display and Performance
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 Edition boasts an impressive 8.8-inch display with a resolution of 144 Hz. This means that the visuals on this Android tablet are not only sharp but also incredibly smooth. While the display is brighter than other 8-inch tablets, reducing the brightness to 60 Hz can extend the battery life up to 9 hours. Overall, the display and performance of the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 are top-notch, making it ideal for tasks that require high graphic settings and smooth gameplay.
Hardware and Ports
Equipped with powerful hardware and plenty of memory, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 Edition is capable of handling the latest games and applications with ease. The tablet also features two USB-C ports, which allow for easy connectivity and data transfer. Additionally, the PC mode works seamlessly, providing users with a desktop-like experience. The optional stylus works well and adds another layer of functionality to the tablet.
Missing Features
While the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 Edition offers many impressive features, it does have a few shortcomings. One downside is the absence of a fingerprint reader, which can be a convenient and secure way to unlock the tablet. Additionally, there is no LTE version available, limiting the tablet’s connectivity options. However, it is important to note that these criticisms are minor and the overall value of the tablet is not significantly affected.
Comparison to Competitors
When comparing the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 Edition to its direct competitor, the iPad Mini, the Lenovo tablet emerges as a more affordable option. With its bright display, powerful hardware, and high-end features, the Lenovo tablet offers a great alternative for those looking for a premium Android tablet. It is disappointing that Lenovo does not officially release the tablet in most countries, making it necessary to import it from China. However, for those in search of an 8-inch premium tablet with Android, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 Edition is the best choice available.
Battle of the Small Tablets: Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 vs Apple iPad Mini
Design and Display
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 packs quite a punch in terms of design and display. With its sleek and compact build, this 8-inch Android tablet is a joy to hold and use. The device features a stunning IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels, providing sharp visuals and vibrant colors. On the other hand, the Apple iPad Mini boasts its signature premium design and a slightly larger Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels. Both tablets offer impressive visuals, making it a tough call in terms of design and display.
Performance and Software
When it comes to performance, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 truly shines. Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ processor, coupled with 6GB of RAM, this tablet ensures smooth multitasking and lag-free performance. It also comes with a hefty 128GB of internal storage, providing ample space for your files and media. On the other hand, the Apple iPad Mini is equipped with Apple’s powerful A14 Bionic chip and varies in storage options, ranging from 64GB to 256GB. Both tablets excel in terms of performance, catering to different preferences in terms of operating systems Android and iOS.
Audio and Battery Life
For audio enthusiasts, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 offers a rich audio experience with its dual front-facing speakers, delivering immersive sound quality. Additionally, it comes with Dolby Atmos support, further enhancing the audio output. The tablet also packs a 10,200mAh battery, providing impressive battery life for uninterrupted usage. The Apple iPad Mini, on the other hand, offers stereo speakers and Apple’s own audio enhancements. With its 19.1Wh battery, it is capable of delivering a reliable battery life, ensuring you stay connected throughout the day.
Camera and Connectivity
Despite being primarily focused on gaming, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 doesn’t skimp on the camera department. It features a 13-megapixel rear camera that captures decent shots and a 5-megapixel front-facing camera for video calls and selfies. In terms of connectivity, it supports Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and USB Type-C for fast data transfer. On the other hand, the Apple iPad Mini sports an 8-megapixel rear camera and a 7-megapixel front-facing camera. It also provides Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and lightning connectivity options, catering to a seamless online experience.
Verdict: The Ultimate Small Tablet
In conclusion, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 proves to be a strong contender in the world of small tablets. Its impressive design, vibrant display, powerful performance, and immersive audio make it a worthy competitor to the Apple iPad Mini. Whether you prefer the versatility of Android or the seamless integration of iOS, both tablets excel in their respective operating systems. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and specific needs when choosing between the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 and the Apple iPad Mini.
Conclusion
The Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 is an excellent 8-inch Android tablet that packs a punch in terms of performance and features. With its high-refresh-rate display, powerful hardware, and versatile connectivity options, it offers a compelling option for those in search of a portable and capable tablet. While importing it may have its challenges, the tablet’s overall value for money makes it a worthy consideration for tech enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 proves to be a solid choice for those in search of a high-quality 8-inch Android tablet. Its standout feature is undoubtedly the IPS display, which offers excellent viewing angles, sharpness, and brightness. The tablet’s performance, along with its support for up to 144Hz, ensures a smooth and enjoyable user experience. Although the camera quality may not be top-tier, it still serves its purpose adequately. Overall, if you’re looking for the best 8-inch Android tablet on the market, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 is a worthy contender.
In conclusion, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 is undoubtedly one of the best 8-inch Android tablets currently available. While it may not excel in certain areas, such as the pre-loaded notes app and the pen functionality, its powerful hardware and impressive gaming performance make it a worthy contender in the market. If you prioritize a tablet with a top-tier pen experience, the iPad Mini may be a better choice. However, if you seek a tablet that offers strong overall performance and a large storage capacity, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 is an excellent option.
In conclusion, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 is a highly capable 8-inch Android tablet that offers a great user experience. Despite some limitations regarding system language selection in the Chinese ROM, the tablet’s customizations and additional features add value and convenience. With the ability to install the Google Play Store and other apps, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 becomes a versatile device that can cater to a wide range of user preferences and needs.
In conclusion, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 Edition is an exceptional 8-inch Android tablet that offers a high-resolution display, powerful hardware, and a range of features. While it may lack certain conveniences such as a fingerprint reader and LTE connectivity, these minor drawbacks do not significantly impact the overall functionality and value of the tablet. For anyone in search of a premium Android tablet in this size range, the Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 2023 Edition is undoubtedly the best option, even if it means importing it from China.
