TechRadar Verdict
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 is not going to set anyones world on fire.
With its low price, its a great value for those that just need a Windows computer.
Considering that this is a slightly older model, you most likely will find it at a discount.
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
Its also almost half a pound heavier than the IdeaPad Slim 3.
The more powerful the processor the snappier the response will be for browsing and day-to-day tasks.
There is some light customization available outside of the internal components as well.
you could upgrade from a non-touch to a touch screen.
And you’re able to choose whether to pay extra for a fingerprint reader.
Theres also a color choice between Abyss Blue (reviewed here) and gray.
Its thin, light, and, from afar, looks like a MacBook competitor.
It comes with a decently-sized 15.6-inch display that, at 1080p, is good enough for most people.
Plus, that display on upgraded models such as the one reviewed is a responsive touchscreen.
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
The keyboard falls into the good enough camp, as it does the job but isn’t particularly special.
And theres no backlighting either.
At least theres a numpad.
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
The touchpad is equally fine; its accurate and responsive, but isnt the smoothest to the touch.
Of course, theres the typical USB-C and USB-A ports as well as a headphone jack.
Lastly, there are some security features on hand that I do appreciate.
Namely, theres a fingerprint reader on the power button and privacy shutter on the webcam.
And it does those just fine.
This laptop is meant for people who just need a computer at an affordable price.
Plus, it does have a little grain to the image in low light configs.
More egregiously, the audio is underwhelming.
While this is somewhat typical for budget and mid-range laptops, its worth pointing out.
Considering how many people simply stream stuff onto their laptops these days, its surprising that this isnt better.
Lastly, it should be mentioned that, like most budget laptops, this comes with some bloatware.
I was able to charge back up from 55% after about 40 minutes.
Should I buy the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9?
Buy it if…
You just want a computer
Im not trying to be facetious.
Some people want the Honda Civic equivalent of a laptop that looks good enough and does its job.
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 fits that bill.
It might be worth spending the difference for a MacBook Air.
Its just good enough, but wont make it through an entire day of work on a single charge.
It also provides an intuitive user experience the way most Apple products do.
