Lenovo has released a line of powerful ideapads in 2019, but the 2020 release will bring even more features to make it one of the best laptops on market.
The “Lenovo Ideapad L340” is a laptop that was released in 2020. It has a 15-inch screen and weighs 5.2 pounds. It comes with an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD.
In terms of Performance in (gaming), Portability, Price, Display Quality, Life of the Batteries, and more, we compared the Lenovo C340 against the Lenovo Ideapad L340.
The Ranking with the test results may be seen above (and links for the Laptops on Amazon). The detailed reviews of each Lenovo Ideapad Laptop can be found below.
Lenovo Ideapad L340 is ranked first.
- Performance (gaming) is better than the Ideapad C340.
- Full HD display is fantastic.
- Excellent battery life
- More costly than the Ideapad C340
Review of the Lenovo Ideapad L340-17API: The 17.3-inch screen impresses with its long battery life. The Lenovo Ideapad L340 is a basic laptop with a powerful Ryzen 5-3500U-APU, a solid state drive, decent battery life, and a superb keyboard. Unfortunately, the 17-inch model is lacking: a bad TN-panel, mediocre RAM, and no memory card reader.
Following the Ideapad 330-17 series is the Ideapad L340-17 series. Both series’ gadgets are relatively similar, however there are some minor changes.
The AMD Ryzen-5-3500U-APU powers the Ideapad L340-17API model we’re looking at. Models using Intel CPUs, on the other hand, are also available. The Asus VivoBook 17 X705UA, the Dell Inspiron 17 3780, and the HP 17.4 are among the competitors.
Design & Interfaces / Ports
The Ideapad L340’s casing is constructed entirely of silver-gray (“Platinum Grey”) plastic. Black is the color of the display frame. The top side of the base unit and the rear of the lid are finished in brushed metal.
On the manufacturing side, there’s nothing to complain about. The spaces are proper, and there are no sharp edges to be seen. In terms of stability, there is space for improvement: the base unit and lid may be bent a little too much for our liking.
Our test gadget isn’t equipped with an optical drive. In the drive bay, there is a dummy. The SATA slot, which is required for attaching an optical drive, is, nevertheless, present. If required, a similar drive might be retrofitted.
The L340 is not equipped with a maintenance cover. The bottom shell must be removed in order to access the inside. First and foremost, the dummy that is positioned in the optical drive slot must be removed. The bottom of the unit’s screws are then removed.
After that, a thin spatula or a joint smoother may be used to remove the bottom shell. This must be done with caution. Many clips hold the bottom shell in place. The solid state disk, the fan, the WiFi module, the RAM module, and the battery are now all accessible.
The interface offer seems to be well-organized. The computer has two type A USB ports and one type C USB port, all of which comply with the USB 3.2 Gen 1 standard.
There’s also an HDMI output and a Gigabit Ethernet connection. A memory card reader is not included with the Ideapad. All ports are located on the left side of the notebook, at the rear. As a result, the surfaces next to both sides of the wrist-rest remain cable-free.
Qualcomm’s chip (QCA9377) is used in the WiFi module. This device supports the fast ac standard in addition to the WiFi protocols 802.11a/b/g/n. We measured transmission speeds under ideal circumstances (no other WiFi devices nearby, short distance between laptop and server PC) and found them to be average.
Competitors offer similar services. A Gigabit Ethernet controller from Realtek’s RTL8168/8111 series handles wired network connections. This controller does a great job at what it does.
Touchpad & Keyboard
The Lenovo Ideapad L340 comes with a backlit chiclet keyboard and a number pad. The keys are flat and somewhat roughened, with a short stroke and a distinct pressure point. W
I appreciate the resistance of the key. During typing, the keyboard gives a little. This hasn’t been a bother thus far. Overall, Lenovo has provided a very decent keyboard that is also suited for everyday typing tasks.
The multi-touch clickpad is about 10.5 x 7 cm in size. As a result, there is plenty of room to use gesture control. Fingers slide easily over the smooth pad surface. Input from the corners is likewise recognized by the pad. It features a short stroke length and a distinct pressure point.
Display
The 17.3-inch matt display on the Ideapad has a native resolution of 1,600 x 900 pixels. The contrast (500:1) and brightness (200.6 cd/m2) are insufficient.
We consider rates greater than 300 cd/m2 or 1000:1 to be excellent. The displays on the HP 17 and Dell Inspiron 17 both match our standards in our comparison. Positive: There is no PWM flickering on the L340’s screen at any time.
The color display on the screen isn’t that great either. The intended range (DeltaE less than 3) is far away with a DeltaE 2000 color deviation of 10.36. Furthermore, the display has a distinct blue hue.
Using the color profile given by us, the screen’s color representation may be somewhat enhanced. It’s critical to utilize the same display model (manufacturer + model number) as the one we used in our test equipment. If not, the color representation may degrade even further. Screens from several manufacturers are often utilized within a laptop model series.
The Lenovo Ideapad comes with a TN panel with a variable viewing angle. As a result, the screen cannot be read from every angle. Due to the poor brightness of the display, the laptop may only be read inside or not at all.
Performance
The Ideapad L340-17API from Lenovo is a 17.3-inch laptop with appropriate processing power for business and internet activities.
The integrated GPU enables you to play any game. Our test gadget will set you back about $750. There are many other equipment options.
The Ideapad is powered by AMD’s latest Ryzen-5-3500U (Picasso) processor, which provides enough processing capacity for office and internet activities.
The APU’s CPU is a quad-core processor with a base frequency of 2.1 GHz. Turbo allows for a speed boost of up to 3.7 GHz. Simultaneous multithreading is supported by the CPU (two threads can be processed per core).
The Cinebench benchmarks’ multi-threaded tests are done for a brief period at 3.3 to 3.4 GHz. The clock rate lowers to 3 to 3.1 GHz after that.
Single-thread tests are performed at speeds ranging from 1.5 to 3.7 GHz. The multi-thread tests are done at 2.4 GHz in battery mode, then at 3.1 to 3.2 GHz. Single-thread tests are performed at speeds ranging from 1.4 to 2.4 GHz.
We conduct the Cinebench R15 benchmark’s multi-thread test in a continuous loop for at least 30 minutes to see whether the turbo is also employed in network operation. For a few minutes, the CPU can run at a turbo speed of 3 to 3.1 GHz, but then it lowers to 2.9 GHz and stays there for the duration of the test.
Most laptops equipped with the immediate predecessor APU – Ryzen 5 2500U – perform worse than the Ideapad. AMD’s enhancements to the 3500U APU’s Zen+ design (reduced structural width, marginally faster operating speeds, slightly more power per clock) seem to be paying off.
The system works quickly and fluidly. We haven’t had any issues thus far. For workplace and internet operations, the laptop offers more than adequate processing power. This is bolstered by good scores in the PC-Mark benchmarks.
However, since the RAM is configured in single channel mode, Lenovo leaves a portion of the performance unutilized. Because the computer only has one RAM bank, the dual channel mode cannot be engaged afterwards.
However, there are Ideapad L340 equipment variations that support two channel mode. In addition, some variants come with 4 GB of soldered memory.
As the system drive, a Samsung SATA SSD is utilized. This is a variant with a 2.5-inch screen and 256 GB of storage. In the delivery stage, around 213 GB of this may be utilised. The recovery partition and the Windows installation share the remaining storage space. Overall, the SSD provides acceptable transfer speeds.
Inside the computer, there is still an empty M.2-2280 slot. NVMe SSDs may be used in this.
Gaming Capabilities
The visual output is handled by AMD’s integrated Radeon RX Vega-8 graphics engine. The GPU runs at speeds of up to 1,200 MHz and supports DirectX 12.
The scores in the 3D Mark benchmarks are on par with what you’d expect from a GPU of this kind. No performance gain is achievable since the dual channel option is disabled on our test device.
The hardware of the L340 allows many of the games in our database to run well on the screen. This is particularly true for games like Diablo 3, Team Fortress 2, and League of Legends, which have been available for a few years and don’t have significant system needs.
In HD resolution and moderate to medium quality settings, the games attain smooth refresh rates. The titles for the years 2018/2019 are hardly applicable. At low resolutions and poor quality settings, isolated games may attain passable frame rates.
Temperature & Noise Levels
The Lenovo laptop does not create a lot of noise. When the fan is not in use, it often stops and there is stillness. Under load, it doesn’t make a lot of noise. During the stress test, we recorded a sound pressure level of 35.3 dB(A). Regrettably, the fan makes a soft whistling noise.
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In both mains and battery mode, the Lenovo laptop passes our stress test (Prime95 and Furmark run for at least 1 hour). At the start of the test, the CPU runs at 2.5 GHz. After around 10 minutes, the clock rate lowers to 2.3 to 2.4 GHz and stays there for the rest of the time.
During this time, the GPU’s operating speed reduces from 900 MHz to 600 MHz. The stress test simulates a high-stress situation that does not exist in real life. This test is used to see whether the system is stable even when it is fully loaded.
The laptop does not get overheated. Only two measurement sites on the bottom reported temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius during the stress test. In normal usage, the rates are in the green range.
Sound
The dual speakers have been relocated to the device’s bottom. They generate a sound that is muted and lacking in bass.
In addition, the maximum volume is rather modest. Headphones or external speakers should be utilized for a better sound experience.
Life of the Batteries
When calling up online sites, our practical WiFi test replicates the load. The “balanced” profile is selected, the energy-saving features are turned off, and the display brightness is set to about 150 cd/m2.
The Ideapad has a battery life of 6:54 hours. Despite the fact that the L340’s battery has a tiny capacity (36 Wh), the gadget gets a lot of battery life out of it.
Verdict
The Ryzen 5-3500U APU in Lenovo’s 17.3-inch laptop delivers more than adequate processing capacity for office and Internet apps.
Furthermore, it permits the use of computer games, at least to some degree. However, the APU can’t completely unfold since the RAM is only in single channel mode; two channel mode isn’t viable.
Lenovo’s Ideapad L340-17API is a 17.3-inch laptop designed for use at home. However, the setting option we have available has significant flaws.
A 2.5-inch solid state drive ensures that the machine runs quickly. Inside the PC, there is also a slot for an NVMe-SSD in M.2-2280 format. The casing would have to be opened in order to install a matching SSD. There is no maintenance flap on the PC.
The matt HD+ screen fails to pique my interest. The viewing angle is dark, low-contrast, and unsteady. Furthermore, the color presentation is unconvincing. The calculator’s keyboard makes a nice first impression and may also be used for ordinary typing tasks.
We do, however, overlook a crucial illumination. Lenovo’s excellent battery runtimes from the relatively small-capacity battery should not be overlooked. Regrettably, the fan makes a low whistling noise.
We loved the Ideapad L340-17API in general, however we can’t advocate purchasing the configuration option in front of us. The dark, low-contrast, viewing angle-unstable TN screen and the RAM operating in single channel mode are the two primary flaws.
For $50 extra, you can have the Ideapad’s equipment versions, which include a slightly faster APU, a viewing angle-stable IPS full HD display, and dual-channel RAM on board.
Overall, the Lenovo Ideapad L340 outperforms the Lenovo Ideapad C340 in terms of overall performance and hardware.
Lenovo Ideapad C340 is ranked second.
- Excellent Work
- Price is lower than the Ideapad L340.
- SSD Storage That Is Quick
- The battery life might be improved.
It’s small, light, and adaptable. The IdeaPad C340 impresses with a speedy SSD and excellent build quality. The built-in hardware provides adequate power for all day-to-day chores, yet it’s small enough to carry about with you.
In general, the IdeaPad C340 performs well in our tests. It successfully completes all of the duties assigned to it. The display alone revealed flaws. But first, let me give you a quick rundown of the technical facts.
Ports & Design
The IdeaPad C340 has a very traditional appearance. The display bezels seem to be a little dated, since they are rather broad for today’s standards.
This is particularly true of the bottom frame. The camera is placed in the top frame by Lenovo. If you really want to be sure no one is seeing you, you may conceal the camera with a little slider.
When you use the IdeaPad C340 in stand-up mode, the keyboard is hidden in a little recess so it doesn’t get damaged. You won’t be able to use spacers to shield the table’s surface from direct touch.
The majority of the casing is composed of aluminum. Plastic is only used on the bottom.
There is no numpad on this keyboard, but it does include a three-level lighting. Typing is simple and silent due to the lack of resistance provided by the keys. The fingerprint reader is positioned on the right side of the keyboard, just in front of the keyboard.
The touchpad on the IdeaPad C340 is big and in the center. Inputs are acknowledged swiftly and readily. At the bottom of the touchpad, there are still two mouse substitution keys.
Everything about the processing is perfect. There are no sharp edges or burrs, and the spaces are all evenly spaced.
The IdeaPad C340’s connectors are spread out across both sides. The 3.5 mm jack, USB-C connector, HDMI port, and power connection socket are all located on the left side.
The card reader and two USB-A ports are located on the right side, behind the power button. There is no LAN port on the IdeaPad. If you want one, you’ll need to purchase a docking station.
Display
The display isn’t really impressive. It has a Full HD resolution and a glossy IPS touch display. Your touch inputs are immediately and accurately detected. If you’re using the IdeaPad C340 as a regular notebook, though, don’t push too hard. For an extended period of time, the display wobbles.
In terms of color space coverage, the C340 falls short. It blends in at the lower end of our database of workplace laptops, with 66 percent sRGB, 47 percent NTSC, and 49 percent AdobeRGB color space coverage. Working with Office is entirely OK, and watching movies is also not an issue.
However, you should not use it to modify images. To be honest, comparable notebooks didn’t exactly shine when it came to color space coverage either.
Unfortunately, the IdeaPad C340 suffers from a lack of brightness as well. An average of 182 cd/m2 was recorded. Indoors, as long as you don’t have direct light irradiation, this is adequate.
If you want to use the Convertible outside, choose a location where you won’t be sitting in the sun. The display will soon reach its maximum capacity, and the information will be overshadowed by ambient light.
With a contrast ratio of 980:1, the picture looks great. It’s not spectacular, but it’s more than enough for the convertible’s purposes.
Software
The operating system is Windows 10 Home 64 Bit. Bloatware, which seems to be inescapable, may also be found here. Candy Crush Saga and Friends, as well as Xing.
If you no longer need the items, they may be removed fully. Then there’s McAfee, which is trying to persuade you to upgrade to the premium full version in a non-obtrusive manner.
Lenovo Vantage, on the other hand, is a valuable software that makes it simple to maintain your system up to date.
On the 256 GB SSD, the first 205 GB are still free.
(Gaming) Performance
The built-in hardware identifies it as a notebook for use in the workplace. It may truly earn points when compared to other laptops with comparable configurations. Applications load swiftly and execute without a hitch. It’s very easy to move between various applications.
The SSD is made by Samsung and is very fast. In the benchmark, it achieves read speeds of 3422 MB/s. When writing, the speed reduces to 556 MB/s. However, this is a very enough rate for regular usage.
In graphics-intensive operations, the built-in UHD graphic 620’s limitations become apparent. Light browser games are clearly not an issue, based on the rates. On this device, everything that needs graphics should be avoided.
Battery Life
According to Lenovo, the battery life is up to eight hours. Manufacturer figures should always be interpreted with care, which is why we conducted our own tests.
With just under 200 cd/m2, it didn’t quite last four hours at maximum brightness. You will, of course, get longer if you lower the brightness. However, given that the display isn’t the brightest, the issue of how beneficial this is arises.
Temperature & Noise Levels
The IdeaPad C340 will only be heard in the most unusual of circumstances in ordinary life. The fans start up every now and again, but the noise level remains low. During the stress test, the C340 was likewise pretty quiet.
During the stress test, the temperatures remain in the green zone. The cooling mechanism kicks in after a 96°C high in the beginning. The temperature of the Core i5-8265U then stabilized at 79°C on average. This number isn’t significant, so you shouldn’t run across any issues in daily life.
Upgradability
If that’s what you desire, the IdeaPad C340 is simple to open. Only 10 little screws on the bottom need to be undone. Several tiny lugs hold the base plate in place in the casing.
They may, however, be readily deleted. To do so, first raise the plate at the hinges. It’s enough to gently stroll around the gadget with your fingernails or a plastic card and gradually lift the plate up to remove it from its anchorage.
You get access to all of the critical components on the inside. You can see the SSD right in front of you. The silver cover in the centre must be removed in order to replace the RAM. The RAM’s two latches are both occupied. Soldering is used to connect 4 GB of memory. The highest amount of RAM that may be installed is 16 GB.
If you want to, you may also replace the battery. Thankfully, it is merely screwed together rather than bonded. As a result, Lenovo performs an excellent job in this area.
Sound
Sound and notebooks aren’t always the greatest of friends. The IdeaPad C340, on the other hand, stands out from the throng. At half volume, the sound is balanced.
Surprisingly, the highs aren’t overpowering, but they do have a decent balance with the middle and bass. Of course, don’t expect to see any actual basses here. The lows, on the other hand, are present.
The sound stays balanced even when the volume is turned all the way up. Highs that are shrill do not reappear. The Convertible, on the other hand, does not become extremely noisy as a result of this. It won’t be enough to fill a party. However, the loudness is suitable for nice movie evenings on the sofa.
Verdict
The Lenovo IdeaPad C340 does a lot of things right. It’s built to last, with high-quality materials, and Lenovo doesn’t scrimp on hardware. The battery life isn’t very impressive. However, you may easily go on a longer vacation without worrying about running out of charge after a few minutes.
Only the display failed to impress in the test, which is why the Lenovo Ideapad C340 falls short of the Ideapad L340. However, we should point out that the Ideapad C340 is less expensive.
For the time being, $500 gets you a comprehensive package that you can simply enhance if required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lenovo IdeaPad L340 worth it?
A: The L340 is an inexpensive laptop for students. Its average PC performance and low cost make it worth the money.
Is the IdeaPad C340 good?
A: The IdeaPad C340 is a good laptop.
What is the difference between Lenovo S340 and C340?
A: In order to answer this question, the following terms would need to be understood first. Desktop PC refers to a personal computer that is designed primarily for use at a desk with an attached keyboard and mouse. Laptop refers as any portable laptop device such as those manufactured by Apple or Microsoft which generally lacks these features and has limited connectivity options like built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
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