Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15-inch Touchscreen Laptop (81WR000ECF)

This laptop makes a pretty good impression for a budget model. The monitor is relatively low-rez, making it better-suited for single-tasking and anyone tired of squinting at a screen.
Maintenance is well-documented, making upgrades relatively straightforward despite some memory being soldered to the board. Your first upgrade will likely be Windows itself, S-mode limiting where you can get your programs from. Thankfully, it's free and relatively painless.
Other Considerations
Here are a few things about this Laptop which could come as a surprise. For each point, you will find how to fix it (if it's an issue) and how much to budget for it. Not every point below will be a concern, but hopefully, we can keep your surprises to a minimum.
Restricted Version of Windows.
This Laptop runs Windows 10 in S mode which means that most software from the compatibility list below won't work out of the box.
It is possible to upgrade Windows 10 to its normal, insecure mode for free. Doing so allows running programs which are not on the Microsoft App Store. The process isn't too complicated, but in essence, it involves reinstalling Windows.
This evaluation assumes that you (or a helpful friend) plan to go through that process; otherwise, Value and Versatility scores would be much lower. Most archetypes defined on TekAdvisors also could not access the software they need without it.
Free
No Optical Drive. If you still use CDs, DVDs, or Blu-Ray disks on a regular basis, you will need an external drive to read them with this Laptop.$30+
Limited Workspace. The included screen has a lower resolution than the typical TV or computer monitor. This could hinder your ability to multi-task, especially if you work with multiple windows at once. On the plus side, things will tend to be displayed larger on screen if your eyesight is challenging.
This is easy to fix on a desk by connecting to an external monitor, but hard to address anywhere else.
Assuming you are starting over fresh, you can expect to spend $20 on accessories, for a total cost of $520.
Who it's For
- Casual Worker
Compared to other Laptops
Bang for the Buck | |
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Versatility | |
Power (General Purpose) | |
Power (Graphical) | |
Power (Large Files & Multitasking) | |
Storage Space | |
Portability | |
Battery Autonomy | |
Ease of Maintenance | |
Longevity |
Compared Overall
Bang for the Buck | |
---|---|
Versatility | |
Power (General Purpose) | |
Power (Graphical) | |
Power (Large Files & Multitasking) | |
Storage Space | |
Portability | |
Battery Autonomy | |
Ease of Maintenance | |
Longevity |
Specs
Screen
15.6", 1366×768 (1366 × 768, 1MP), 100.45 PPI, Multiple Monitor Support, Touch Screen
Operating System
Windows 10, S Edition
CPU
Intel Core i3-10110U, 2 cores clocked from 2.1 to 4.1 GHz
GPU
Intel UHD Graphics
Memory
8 GB, Dual-Channel
Storage
256 GB total, Solid State (very fast), Micro SD Storage Expansion
Battery
35Wh
Dimensions and Weight
Dimensions (cm): w36.22 × d25.34 × h2
Dimensions (in): w14.26 × d64.36 × h5.08
Weight (kg): 4.069
Weight (lbs.): 8.97
Features
- Paired Memory
- Fixed storage: Solid State (very fast)
- Micro SD Storage Expansion
- Webcam / Front-Facing Camera / Selfie Cam
- HDMI
- Multiple Monitor Support
- Touch Screen
- USB 2
- USB 3
- USB Type-A
- Built-in Number Pad
- Built-In Keyboard
- 3.5mm Headphone+Microphone combo jack
- Built-in Microphone
- Built-in Speakers
- Bluetooth 5
- Wi-Fi a
- Wi-Fi b
- Wi-Fi g
- Wi-Fi n
- Wi-Fi ac
Maintenance and Upgrades
Commonly Replaced Components
Battery: A technician can help you with that
Local Storage: Easy project for an enthusiast
Memory: More complex than usual
GPU: Can't be repaired or updated
Additional Ressources
Pricing and Current Offers
Software Compatibility
Here's how you can expect this laptop to fare with popular software based on developpers specified system requirements. For reference, a 1-star rating means minimal requirements are met and a 3-stars rating means recommended specs are met. Ratings beyond the 3-stars point could be advisable for uncommon scenarios like modding, working with very large and complex documents, etc.
Browse the software library for more options and find compatible hardware
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