Lenovo recently lent me their new Idepad 5x, a 14″ ARM-based Windows laptop powered by the lower cost (and lower performing)Snapdragon X Plus processor. You can check it out in my latest review.
The 5x can be found for well under $1,000 sometimes even below $700. At the time of this writing it’s available at Staples for $749 and you will probably see sales on Lenovo’s website too (compensated affiliate links).
The 5x model operates on the Snapdragon X+ processor, positioning it as a budget-friendly option in the ARM-based laptop market. It won’t compete with the performance of high-end models like the Snapdragon X Elite, but it does well in providing a solid experience for basic computing needs. It performs a lot better than some of the previous sub-$1,000 attempts we’ve previously looked at.
The 14-inch OLED display offers nice visuals, with a 16:10 aspect ratio, 1900×1200 resolution, and full coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut. This screen doesn’t support HDR, but it provides deep blacks and vibrant colors that make it suitable for creative work. Keeping brightness moderate, the laptop can run for up to 15-16 hours—a notable advantage of the ARM platform and very similar to the longevity of Apple’s Macbook Air.
On the performance front, it handles standard tasks without hiccups. Web browsing, streaming 1080p video, and even light 4k video editing in DaVinci Resolve ran well, with basic edits like cuts and transitions worked without significant lag. The pen, included with my loaner unit, was responsive and comfortable for note-taking and sketching, thanks to a display coating that resists sliding, adding a bit of control.
But there are limitations. Compatibility issues remain a challenge for ARM devices. While popular applications like Microsoft Office work fine, specialized software for Intel or AMD processors may run inconsistently. Gaming, for instance, was hit-or-miss. Titles like the new Dark Forces Remaster and Rogue Flight ran well, but more demanding titles like No Man’s Sky and Red Dead Redemption 2 failed to load or play properly. Performance benchmarks on the Ideapad 5X were closer to older AMD Ryzen 4000 series processors, indicating this isn’t a powerhouse by any stretch, and gamers may want to steer clear if compatibility is a priority.
The keyboard and trackpad were up to Lenovo’s usual standards, delivering a familiar, comfortable experience. Port-wise, it offers a reasonable selection, including HDMI, two full service USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, and an SD card slot. The USB-C ports are not Thunderbolt or USB 4.0 compatible, which might limit flexibility for some users.
On the audio front, the Ideapad’s speakers fall short, offering flat, limited sound. They’re fine for basic conference calls but may disappoint for media playback. Headphones are definitely recommended for movies or music. As for running alternative operating systems like Linux, this laptop currently doesn’t support them although there is no restriction from Qualcomm on running alternative OS’s in the future.
Ultimately, Lenovo’s Ideapad 5X offers a solid option for users needing a reliable, long-lasting laptop for everyday tasks. It’s not without its compromises, especially in areas like gaming and app compatibility, but for those doing the basics and seeking long battery life, it delivers.