Lenovo IdeaPad S340-15IWL: Peppy quad-core performance, but a cheap display
Those looking for solid productivity power, a roomy screen, and a comfortable keyboard should give the Lenovo IdeaPad S340-15IWL a fair shake, but make sure you pick up the right model. While we were pleased with the benchmark results for the S340-15IWL ($730 list, but generally closer to $500 online), the configuration we tested comes with a cut-rate TN display saddled with poor viewing angles. You can upgrade to a superior IPS panel for a modest amount of cash (as in $40 or so) while keeping the same internals, so you have options. A svelte design rounds out the package, although we do wish Lenovo had managed to wring a little more life out of the S340’s battery.
PRICE AND CONFIGURATION
Lenovo’s 15-inch S340 line includes models ranging from $630 up to $830, although Lenovo’s continual “instant” deals typically shave a couple hundred or more off the manufacturer’s list prices. Our review model (the SKU is 81N8003SUS), for example, has a $730 list price on Lenovo.com, but at the time this review was written, Lenovo’s website was selling it for $510 after a $220 “instant” discount.
Here’s what you get for that $730—er, $510 price tag:
CPU: Quad-core Intel Core i5-8265U
RAM: 8GB DDR4-2400 RAM
GPU: Intel UHD Graphics 620
Display: 15.6-inch 1920 x 1080 TN display
Storage: 256GB SSD
On paper, those are some pretty decent
