Lenovo IdeaPad 5 15IAL7 Laptop Review: Powerful Performance in a Sleek Design (82SF00K7PS)

Lenovo IdeaPad 5 15IAL7 Laptop Review: Powerful Performance in a Sleek Design (82SF00K7PS)

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Lenovo IdeaPad 5 15IAL7 Laptop is a compelling option for users seeking a balance between performance and portability. This mid-range laptop packs a punch with its Intel Core i5-1235U processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB SSD storage, all housed in a stylish and lightweight design. I’ve been using the IdeaPad 5 for several weeks now, putting it through its paces with everyday tasks, productivity work, and even some light gaming, and I’m ready to share my insights.

Features

The Lenovo IdeaPad 5 15IAL7 boasts a range of features designed to enhance your user experience. Here are some highlights:

  • 15.6″ FHD IPS Display: The display offers vibrant colors and sharp visuals, making it ideal for both work and entertainment.
  • Intel Core i5-1235U Processor: This 12th-generation processor delivers impressive performance, effortlessly handling demanding tasks like multitasking and content creation.
  • 16GB RAM: With ample RAM, you can smoothly run multiple applications without encountering lag.
  • 512GB SSD: The fast SSD ensures rapid boot times and quick application loading.
  • NVIDIA GeForce MX550 Graphics: The dedicated graphics card enhances visual performance, enabling you to enjoy smooth gameplay and graphics-intensive applications.
  • Backlit Keyboard: The backlit keyboard allows you to work comfortably even in low-light conditions.
  • FHD 1080p Camera with Privacy Shutter: The webcam provides clear video calls, while the privacy shutter ensures your security when not in use.

Performance

The Lenovo IdeaPad 5 15IAL7 delivers a smooth and responsive experience across a wide range of tasks. The Intel Core i5-1235U processor effortlessly handles everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and document editing. I was also impressed with its performance during more demanding tasks, such as video editing and multitasking with multiple browser tabs open. The NVIDIA GeForce MX550 graphics card provides a noticeable boost in visual performance, making games like League of Legends and Rocket League playable at decent settings. The 16GB of RAM ensured smooth multitasking and seamless application switching, even when running demanding programs.

Pros & Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the Lenovo IdeaPad 5 15IAL7:

Pros

  • Powerful performance for everyday tasks and light gaming.
  • Sleek and lightweight design.
  • Vibrant 15.6″ FHD IPS display.
  • Backlit keyboard for comfortable typing in low light.
  • FHD webcam with privacy shutter.
  • Fast SSD storage for quick boot times and application loading.

Cons

  • Battery life could be better for heavy users.
  • No Thunderbolt port.
  • Upgradability is limited.

Final Verdict

The Lenovo IdeaPad 5 15IAL7 is a solid choice for users seeking a balanced laptop that delivers excellent performance and a sleek design. It’s a great option for students, professionals, and casual gamers. While its battery life could be better, and it lacks a Thunderbolt port, the overall package offers excellent value for the price. If you’re looking for a reliable and capable laptop, the IdeaPad 5 15IAL7 is definitely worth considering.

Specifications

Feature Specification
Processor Intel® Core™ i5-1235U, 10C (2P + 8E) / 12T, P-core 1.3 / 4.4GHz, E-core 0.9 / 3.3GHz, 12MB
Graphics NVIDIA® GeForce MX550 2GB GDDR6
Chipset Intel® SoC Platform
Memory 16GB Soldered DDR4-3200
Memory Slots Memory soldered to systemboard, no slots, dual-channel (Intel® i5 / i7 models)
Max Memory 16GB soldered memory, not upgradable
Storage 512GB SSD M.2 2242 PCIe® 4.0×4 NVMe®
Storage Support Models with 57Wh battery: up to two drives, 1x 2.5″ HDD + 1x M.2 SSD • 2.5″ HDD up to 1TB • M.2 2242 SSD up to 512GB • M.2 2280 SSD up to 1TB
Storage Slot Models with 57Wh battery: one 2.5″ drive slot + one M.2 slot • One 2.5″ SATA HDD slot • One M.2 2280 PCIe® 4.0 x4 slot
Card Reader SD Card Reader
Optical None
Audio Chip High Definition (HD) Audio, Realtek® ALC3287 codec
Speakers Stereo speakers, 2W x2, optimized with Dolby Audio™
Camera FHD 1080p with Privacy Shutter
Microphone 2x, Array
Battery Integrated 57Wh
Power Adapter 65W USB-C® (3-pin)
Display 15.6″ FHD (1920×1080) IPS 300nits Anti-glare, 45% NTSC
Touchscreen None
Keyboard Backlit, English (UK)
Case Color Storm Grey
Surface Treatment Aluminium Stamping (Anodized)
Case Material Aluminium (Top), PC-ABS (Bottom)
Dimensions (WxDxH) 356.67 x 233.13 x 17.9 mm (14.04 x 9.18 x 0.70 inches)
Weight Starting at 1.77 kg (3.90 lbs)
Operating System None
Bundled Software None
Ethernet No Onboard Ethernet
WLAN + Bluetooth Wi-Fi® 6, 11ax 2×2 + BT5.2
Standard Ports 1x USB 3.2 Gen 11x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Always On)2x USB-C® 3.2 Gen 1 (support data transfer, Power Delivery 3.0 and DisplayPort™ 1.2)1x HDMI® 1.4b1x Headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm)1x SD card reader
Docking Various docking solutions are supported via USB-C®. For more compatible docking solutions
Security Chip Firmware TPM 2.0
Fingerprint Reader Touch Style, Integrated in Power Button
Other Security Camera privacy shutter
Bundled Accessories None
Green Certifications ErP Lot 3RoHS compliant
Mil-Spec Test MIL-STD-810H military test passed