When Lenovo unveiled its latest IdeaPad 2-in-1 16 boasting Intel’s new Arrow Lake processors, expectations were high. Unfortunately, after testing this $1,299 convertible, it’s clear Lenovo missed the mark. The device struggles to justify its premium price tag, delivering middling performance, a lackluster display, and frustrating design compromises that leave budget-conscious buyers questioning its value.
Performance That Doesn’t Shine
Arrow Lake promised next-gen efficiency and speed, but real-world usage tells a different story. The Core Ultra 7 variant in our review unit lagged during multitasking, with noticeable throttling under sustained loads like video editing. Battery life, touted at "up to 10 hours," barely crossed the 6-hour mark with moderate use—hardly impressive for a productivity-focused machine.
Compromised Build and Display
The 16-inch 1200p touchscreen is a letdown. Colors appear washed out (just 65% sRGB coverage), and peak brightness caps at 300 nits, making outdoor use impractical. The hinge feels flimsy for a 2-in-1, wobbling in tablet mode, and the chassis flexes under light pressure. At 4.2 lbs, it’s also heavier than key rivals, undermining its portability claims.
Where’s the Innovation?
Lenovo skimped on features that matter in 2025: no HDMI 2.1, just one USB-C port, and a 720p webcam that produces grainy images. The keyboard, while serviceable, lacks backlighting consistency, and the speakers distort at higher volumes. For a device at this price, these omissions are baffling.
Better Alternatives Exist
If you’re seeking a powerful, polished 16-inch 2-in-1, Lenovo’s offering isn’t your only choice. HP’s Omnibook X Flip delivers superior value, with a sharper 2K display, thinner bezels, and optimized Copilot+ AI features—all at a competitive price point. Check it out at Best Buy or HP’s official store.
The Final Verdict
The IdeaPad 2-in-1 16 isn’t inherently flawed—it’s just not worth $1,299. In a market packed with agile competitors like HP, Asus, and Dell, Lenovo’s execution feels half-hearted. Arrow Lake’s potential is buried under cost-cutting and mediocre engineering. Unless Lenovo slashes prices significantly, savvy shoppers should look elsewhere.
Rating: 2.5/5
Bottom Line: Paying premium for potential? Skip it.
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