The 2-in-1 convertible notebook is no longer necessarily a high-quality device. You can find inexpensive models just like you can find inexpensive classic folding calculators. Take the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i: Its modest 3.31-pound weight makes it easy to quickly switch between touch tablet and regular laptop modes. That light weight is accompanied by redesigned, sturdier hinges and a responsive 14-inch touch display, 14 inches being an increasingly preferred screen size for convertibles.
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i 14IAU7 succeeds the IdeaPad Flex 5 14 by refreshing both the internal and external hardware, which should result in faster performance and a cleaner visual design. It’s a budget consumer convertible that stands in contrast to Lenovo’s more expensive prosumer Yoga series, SMB ThinkBook series, or professional ThinkPad series.
Configurations range from a 12th-gen Core i3-1215U to an i5-1235U or i7-1255U CPU with 8 to 16GB of LPDDR4x RAM. All options feature the same 16:10 1200p IPS touchscreen and no discrete graphics. The exterior of this year’s Flex 5i 14 is almost identical to the model I tested a year ago. The top cover is now made of aluminum instead of plastic. This provides better rigidity for the display, which is important if you often twist it for tent, stand and tablet mode.
The lower part of the case is still made of polycarbonate with woven glass fibers. Because of the plastic, the notebook flexes a bit, but overall it feels sturdy. Weighing about 3.3 pounds (1.5 kg), it is quite portable. The soft surface has a light texture and feels comfortable, and it’s available in three different colors: Abyss Blue, Graphite Grey, or Platinum Grey. I have the Graphite model for testing. Ports are the same as last year, with a USB-C port, two USB-A ports, HDMI, 3.5mm audio, and an SD card reader.
That’s enough for basic physical connectivity, and I love the removable storage option for sharing photos and files. Wi-Fi 6 makes for a faster and more reliable Internet connection, and it’s coupled with Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless accessories. The 720p front-facing camera is good enough for video conferencing, and there’s a physical camera shutter button for added privacy. The fingerprint reader integrated into the right palm rest works flawlessly.