If you're the kind of user who needs a flexible and versatile laptop for work and gaming, but also needs a tablet for certain features, then you're definitely on the market for hybrid laptops. The Lenovo Flex, which comes in 14-inch and 15-inch models, fits right into this category. How does the Lenovo Flex 14 measure up against the competition? Read this review to find out if this convertible is the one for you.
Performance
The Lenovo Flex has different processors available for the 14-inch and the 15-inch models. You get a choice between AMD Ryzen or Intel for the 14-inch version. The smaller laptop goes with up to 8th-gen Intel Processor with Core i7, while its AMD counterpart is equipped with a Ryzen 3 3200U.
Meanwhile, the 15-inch version only has Intel available, and you can have up to 10th-gen Intel Core i7 CPU.
Differences in terms of performance are minor for both versions, so don't worry if you're thinking that you're missing out on firepower when going for the smaller screen. They're both enough to play games like Rocket League and a little PUBG, provided that you don't kick up the graphics settings.
Speaking of graphics, the Intel version of the laptop comes with an Intel UHD Graphics card, while the AMD version has a Radeon Vega 3 Graphics. They're nothing to write home about, but they get the job done.
Design
If it's sleekness and elegance that you're after, the Lenovo Flex 14 is what you're looking for. The 15-inch version is a bit bulky, but they're both light enough to bring around on your daily commute. The 14-inch 14 is only 17.9mm (0.7 inch) thick, so it fits nicely in a backpack. It's also not so heavy, weighing only 3.65 lbs (1.65kg), but it still weighs twice than that of an iPad Pro (1.53 lbs)
Display
Both screens make use of fully touch screen FHD IPS panels, starting at 1366x768 resolution. It works well for watching videos and good enough for word processing. However, the laptop doesn't make a good canvas, as its color grading isn't so accurate, and the screen's brightness also isn't the best.
The 15-inch version also suffers from its size, as its 15.6 inch screen tends to stretch out lower-quality images, making flaws much more noticeable than it would be with the 14-inch screen.
Battery
These laptops could last you the whole day outside working without having to stop to recharge. The 15-inch Flex could go for as long as 12.5 hours in one go, while the 14-inch 14 can go for about 10.5 hours. The AMD version of the 14 consumes battery a bit faster, going only as far as 10 hours, but that's almost negligible. If ever you run out of juice, the Lenovo Flex 14 makes use of a rapid charge technology, which will get you up and running as soon as possible.
Accessibility and Other Features
The Lenovo Flex 14 comes equipped with Bluetooth 4.2 and 802.11 Wi-Fi, which just means you could connect to most devices out there. It also has one USB-C port and two USB-A ports, an SD Card reader slot, an HDMI port, and an AUX jack that functions for both headphones and microphones at the same time. Sadly, the laptop doesn't have an ethernet port for the rare occasions that you find yourself holed up in one place, but it's hardly a feature you'd be looking for in a convertible.
In terms of security, the Flex 14 has a fingerprint sensor and a webcam privacy scanner, offering extra protection for you and other people who use your device.
Summary
The Lenovo Flex 14 packs a lot of features for a convertible and offers a lot of value for its cost. Starting at $559.99 at Amazon, it's one of the most cost-effective options in the market right now. The 14-inch version should be enough if you're looking at the cost, and it's frankly the better option compared to the 15-inch one. The Lenovo Flex 14 has all the bells and whistles of a 2-in-1 hybrid laptop, and it's the perfect choice for those who want to work seamlessly on the go.
