Lenovo IdeaPad U400 (M694FGE)

Zitat: Pro: + Sturdy, attractive design + Large touchpad + Runs cool + Small for a 14” laptop + Excellent overall performance Contra: - Glossy, mediocre display - So-so battery life - Gaming performance could be better Lenovo’s U400 is a fantastic combination of performance and design. Though the Radeon HD 6470M is a bit of a letdown, the laptop is otherwise a strong performer. There’s more than enough power here for most consumers, or even most enthusiasts. You can buy a lot more bang for $899, however, so it’s clear that hardware value is not the goal. Instead, Lenovo is trying to win over consumers with design, and I think they might be on to something. Sturdy, elegant and functional, the Lenovo U400 is arguably more attractive than the MacBook Pro (if Lenovo removed its logo from the lid, I’d be able to remove the “arguably.”) And while there are many elements here that are reminiscent of Apple’s famous laptop line, Lenovo’s book-like design is recognizably different even from across the room. Unfortunately, there are two flaws. One is the display, which is too glossy and offers only moderate image quality. Cheap displays are acceptable in cheap laptops, but once a company starts classing up the chassis, failing to also class up the display becomes more noticeable. Lenovo should consider offering a low-gloss or matte option, which currently is not available. The other problem is battery endurance, which isn’t outstanding for a high-end ultraportable. Though most consumers will never need more, frequent fliers will likely prefer an Apple or ASUS product. When the pros and cons are added, however, these issues can’t overwhelm the advantages. This is a beautiful laptop with a pleasurable user interface and excellent performance, all offered for under $1000. Though I’d personally pick the HP Envy 14 instead (because of better gaming performance) those less concerned with doing some pew-pew while on the go will prefer this laptop’s lighter, smaller, more attractive chassis.